Stucco & EIFS Inspection

Stucco requires proper substrate, weather-resistant barrier, and embedded reinforcing mesh. EIFS requires approved substrate and proper adhesive application.

1. Verify weather-resistant barrier (WRB/house wrap) is installed behind stucco

2. Check that metal lath or fiberglass mesh is properly installed and overlapped (minimum 1" at edges)

3. Verify lath is attached to studs with proper fasteners (not just stapled to sheathing)

4. Check for weep screeds at the bottom of walls (allows moisture to drain out)

5. Verify control joints are placed at proper intervals (no more than 144 sq ft panels)

6. For EIFS: verify approved substrate and adhesive coverage (minimum 60% adhesive contact)

- No weather-resistant barrier behind stucco (moisture enters wall cavity)

- Mesh not properly lapped (cracking at joints)

- Missing weep screed at bottom (water trapped in wall)

- No control joints (random cracking)

- EIFS adhesive coverage insufficient (panels can debond)

- Stucco applied directly over wood without proper barrier

Three-coat stucco: scratch coat, brown coat, finish coat — total minimum 7/8" thickness. Each coat must cure before next application.

1. Verify total stucco thickness (minimum 7/8" for three-coat system)

2. Check that each coat was allowed to cure (minimum 48 hours between coats)

3. Inspect finish for consistent texture and color

4. Look for cracks — hairline is normal, anything wider than 1/16" needs repair

5. Check around windows and doors — stucco should terminate at casing with sealant

6. Verify color consistency across all walls (no patches or color variation)

7. Check that no stucco contacts the ground (minimum 2" clearance)

- Stucco too thin (won't last, cracks easily)

- Coats applied too quickly (poor bonding between layers)

- Cracks wider than 1/16" (moisture entry)

- Stucco touching ground (wicks moisture)

- Color inconsistency (poor mixing or application)

- No sealant at window and door terminations