FAQ for Albuquerque, NM
Here are answers to the stucco questions we hear most. Do not see yours? Call or text (505) 386-3634 and a real person will answer.
Questions from Albuquerque homeowners
Every question, answered
Straight answers to what Albuquerque homeowners ask us most. Don't see yours? Call or text and a real person will answer.
Cracks and repairs
Why does stucco crack?
Houses move as they settle, and walls expand and shrink with daily temperature swings. Stucco is hard and does not stretch, so it cracks at weak points like window corners.
Should I worry about hairline cracks?
Usually not right away, but they let in some water. Sealing and color coating them is a small job that prevents bigger ones.
Can a stucco patch be made invisible?
Close to it. Matching the texture by hand and color coating to a natural break makes most repairs very hard to spot.
When is re-stucco better than patching?
When patches cover large areas, the stucco is hollow or loose, or water damage has spread behind it.
Synthetic stucco and water
How do I know if I have synthetic stucco?
Tap the wall. Synthetic stucco sounds hollow and feels slightly soft, and you may see foam behind a damaged spot.
What are the signs of water behind stucco?
Stains below windows and roof lines, white chalky deposits, bubbling finish, soft spots and interior stains on outside walls.
Can water damage behind stucco be repaired?
Yes. We open the damaged area, replace wet sheathing, fix where the water got in and rebuild the stucco.
Do sprinklers damage stucco?
Yes. Daily spray keeps the base of the wall wet, which breaks down stucco over time. Aim sprinklers away from walls.
Parapets and coatings
Why do parapets leak?
Parapet caps take the most sun and standing water on the house. Flat or cracked caps let water into the wall and roof edge.
What is elastomeric coating?
A thick, flexible coating that stretches with the wall and bridges hairline cracks. It is not a fix for wide or structural cracks.
Paint or color coat?
A color coat is stucco with color mixed in and will not peel. Paint offers more colors and can bridge small cracks but needs repainting over time.
How often should stucco be recoated?
When it fades or chalks, often every several years on sunny south and west walls.
Estimates and scheduling
Is the estimate free?
Yes. Every estimate is free, in writing and itemized.
How fast do you respond?
Within one business day for every call, text, email and form.
What is the best time of year for stucco work?
Late spring and fall. Stucco should not go on in freezing weather, and it is smart to finish repairs before the summer monsoon.
Which towns do you serve?
Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, Corrales, Los Ranchos de Albuquerque, Bernalillo, Placitas, Los Lunas, Belen, Bosque Farms, Tijeras and Edgewood.
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