Let us talk about Stucco Redashing. We get many calls from homeowners here in Ontario, CA, asking if Stucco Redashing is the right choice for their stucco. It is an important question because the answer is not always a simple yes or no. You will want to make sure you are doing what is best for your home, and we are here to lay out the facts.
What is Stucco Redashing?
Stucco Redashing is like giving your home a new skin without tearing everything off. It is applying a new Finish Coat right over your existing, structurally sound stucco surface. We clean the old stucco, fix any small issues, and then put down that new layer of Finish Material. This is not a full tear-off. It is about renewing the surface, improving curb appeal, and adding another layer of protection for homes in Ontario, CA.
How do I know if my stucco is a good candidate for Stucco Redashing versus a full replacement?
This is one of the most common questions we hear. Stucco Redashing works best when your existing stucco is mostly solid. We are talking about faded color, minor texture problems, or a network of Hairline Cracks that are not letting water get behind the walls. If your Base Coats are solid and dry, Stucco Redashing is likely a good option for your home in Ontario, CA. However, if you have widespread moisture problems, delaminated Base Coats, or issues with the Lath underneath, then a full Stucco Replacement is usually the smarter, long-term solution. A good contractor, like Ontario Stucco & Plastering, will always complete a thorough inspection to check for these underlying problems. We will even do a ‘tap test’; a solid, consistent sound indicates a healthy Base Coat.
What kind of textures and colors can I choose for my new Dash Coat?
You have many options here, which is great for customizing your home’s look. Stucco comes in many textures, from smooth to coarse. Some popular options include Sand Finish, which has a fine, uniform grit; Dash Finish, which is rough and bumpy; and Lace or Skip-Trowel, which creates a semi-smooth finish with grooves. We can also complete Swirl or Worm Finishes for properties in Ontario, CA. As for color, you can pick almost anything you like. We can match existing colors or choose something completely new. Just keep in mind that Smooth Finishes tend to show imperfections more and can be harder to patch later on, so they require more skill and labor.
Will Stucco Redashing fix all the cracks in my old stucco?
Stucco Redashing can definitely help with minor surface cracks, especially Hairline Cracks. It seals them up and gives your exterior a fresh, uniform appearance. However, if you have deep, structural cracks, or cracks that are caused by foundation settling or significant movement, Stucco Redashing alone will not solve that underlying problem. We would need to address those structural issues first, because just covering them up would only be a temporary fix and they would likely reappear on your Ontario, CA home.
How long does a redashed stucco exterior typically last?
A properly redashed stucco exterior can extend the life and refreshed look of your home’s facade by another 15 to 20 years. Stucco itself is very durable, often lasting 50 to 80 years or more with proper installation and maintenance. Stucco Redashing adds a new protective layer, helping it stand up to our Inland Empire weather, including the hot, dry summers and occasional winter rains. Regular cleaning and prompt attention to any new small cracks will help maximize its longevity in Ontario, CA.
Do I need a permit for Stucco Redashing in Ontario, CA?
For most Stucco Redashing projects, especially if it is just applying a new Finish Coat over existing, sound stucco, you typically will not need a full building permit from the City of Ontario. However, if the Stucco Redashing project involves structural repairs, significant changes to the wall assembly, or if we uncover major underlying issues that require more extensive work, then a permit might be necessary. It is always best to check with the local building department or have a contractor like Ontario Stucco & Plastering confirm the requirements for your specific project before we start. We are familiar with the local codes and can help you navigate that process for your home in Ontario, CA.
What is the general cost for Stucco Redashing?
The cost of Stucco Redashing can vary depending on the size of your home, the complexity of the job, the texture you choose (Smooth Finishes cost more due to increased labor), and what kind of prep work is needed. Generally, Stucco Redashing is less expensive than a full Stucco Replacement because we are not tearing everything down to the studs. For minor repairs and Stucco Redashing, you might see costs from a few hundred dollars for small patches up to several thousand for larger sections or entire walls in Ontario, CA. A typical 2,000 square foot home could range from $12,000 to $18,000 for a full re-stucco, but Stucco Redashing would be on the lower end of that range, often significantly less. Ontario Stucco & Plastering will always give you a detailed, itemized estimate after a thorough on-site assessment so you know exactly what to expect.
Why should I not just paint my old stucco instead of redashing?
This is an important point. Painting stucco might seem like an easier, cheaper fix, but it is often not the best long-term solution. Stucco is a breathable, cement-based material. If you paint it with the wrong kind of paint, especially a non-breathable one, you can trap moisture inside the wall cavity. That trapped moisture can lead to bigger problems down the road, including peeling paint, mold, or even rot in your home’s framing. Stucco Redashing, on the other hand, adds a new cementitious layer that maintains the stucco’s breathability and integrates with the existing structure. It truly refreshes and protects your home in Ontario, CA, rather than just covering up problems.