Stucco at The Window Connection
Cement based stucco is a combination of portland based cement and sand that is usually applied onto metal lathe.
The metal lathe increased the strength of the stucco, and if applied correctly, reduced the amount and size of any cracking that occurred. The metal lathe included expansion joints which allowed for movement of the concrete over time, corner beads which allowed the installer to create strighter corners, and other metal pieces that helped improve the quality of the finished product. Older homes built before 1985 used a metal lathe that rusted because it was not galvanized.
After the metal lathe is attached, 2 layers of cement is applied. The first is called the scratch coat because the applicator "scratches" the surface so that the next layer of cement will adhere better to the first layer.
The next step is to add the second layer of cement called the "brown" coat.
The cement used today is significantly better than the cement used in the past. It contains microfibers that increase the strength of the cement, and acrylic compounds which allow the cement to expand and contract with less cracking.
One important step after the cement dries is to let it "cure". This takes approximately 28 days. As cement cures, it shrinks and hardens. Hot, dry weather will cause the cement to dry out to fast and create cracking. To help the cement dry properly, it should be kept moist by spraying water on the surface every day.
When the cement layer is dried and cured, the final color coat is applied.
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INSTALLATION
Our Lead Installer has over 20 years in the window installation business and finish carpentry. This experience is exemplified in the expert removal and installation of windows or doors, plus expansion or contraction installations and repair, due to dry rot, etc. He, along with the principals of the company, are certified with the American Architectural Manufacturing Association (AAMA) in the installation of windows so that you can feel comfortable about a perfect install. more...