We sure do! We highly recommend working with any of the following inspectors for your project. They inspect it, we fix it!

• Stucco Pro Inspections: (713) 903-1240
• Fox Inspection Group
• Heddernan Services: (281) 355-9911
• Stuccospecs: (936) 441-0016
• Lone Star Stucco: (936) 661-6612
• Stucco Check: (713) 319-5751

Metal Flashing

• Window and Door Flashing: Metal flashing is commonly installed around windows and doors. It is a thin, flat metal sheet that is integrated into the stucco system. The purpose of window and door flashing is to create a watertight seal and prevent water from infiltrating the wall cavity.
• Flashing Details: Flashing is applied in a way that overlaps the stucco and diverts water away from the vulnerable areas. Properly installed flashing is usually concealed beneath the stucco finish, so it doesn't disrupt the appearance of the wall.
• Moisture Barrier: Flashing acts as a moisture barrier, directing any water that penetrates the stucco or the surrounding areas outward and preventing it from seeping into the wall assembly.
• Prevents Damage: Without proper flashing, water can infiltrate the wall, potentially causing structural damage, rot, mold, and interior water leaks. Flashing helps protect the building from these issues.

Metal Cap

• Roof-to-Wall Junction: A metal cap, often referred to as a coping or coping cap, is used at the top of parapet walls or where a roof meets a vertical wall. It covers the joint between the roof and the stucco wall to prevent water from getting into this vulnerable area.
• Sealing Against Moisture: Metal caps are designed to shed water away from the top of the wall and prevent moisture from seeping down into the wall structure. They effectively seal this junction to avoid water infiltration.
• Durability: Metal caps are typically made from durable materials like aluminum or stainless steel, which can withstand exposure to the elements and resist corrosion.
• Aesthetic Enhancement: In addition to its functional role, a metal cap can also enhance the appearance of the wall by providing a finished and clean edge to the parapet or roof-to-wall junction.

• Climate and Weather Conditions: Houston experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. This climate variation can cause the stucco and the underlying structure to expand during hot, humid periods and contract during cooler, drier times. These temperature and moisture fluctuations can stress the stucco, leading to cracks over time. 
• Settlement and Foundation Movements: Houston is prone to soil movement and foundation settlement due to the region's clay-rich soils. As the foundation settles or shifts, it can create stress on the stucco exterior, resulting in cracks. 
• Improper Installation: Poorly applied stucco can lead to cracks. If the stucco mix isn't prepared and applied correctly, or if the substrate underneath isn't adequately prepared, it can result in weak adhesion and a higher likelihood of cracks. 
• Lack of Expansion Joints: Expansion joints are essential in stucco applications to allow for the natural expansion and contraction of materials. The absence of expansion joints or improperly placed ones can lead to stress on the stucco and cause cracks. 
• Water Intrusion: Houston's frequent heavy rains and hurricanes can lead to water intrusion if the stucco isn't adequately sealed and maintained. Water infiltration can weaken the stucco and cause it to crack over time. 
• Inadequate Drainage: Poor drainage around the property can lead to water pooling near the foundation, increasing the risk of stucco damage and cracking. 
• Age and Wear: Over time, stucco naturally ages and may become more prone to cracking, especially if it hasn't been properly maintained or recoated.

• Inspect Regularly: Begin by inspecting your stucco exterior regularly, ideally at least once a year. Look for signs of damage, cracks, or areas where the stucco may have become discolored or detached.
• Clean Thoroughly: Houston's climate can lead to dirt, mold, and mildew buildup on stucco surfaces. Use a hose or pressure washer with a mild detergent to clean the stucco. Be gentle to avoid damaging the stucco, and use a soft brush or a soft cloth to remove any stubborn stains.
• Repair Cracks and Damage: Address any cracks or damage as soon as you notice them. Small cracks can quickly worsen if left untreated. Properly repair them using stucco patching material, and ensure that the patched area matches the texture and color of the surrounding stucco.
• Check Caulking and Seals: Inspect the caulking around windows, doors, and other openings. Replace any cracked or deteriorated caulking to maintain a watertight seal and prevent water intrusion.
• Maintain Gutters and Downspouts: Properly functioning gutters and downspouts are essential for directing rainwater away from your stucco walls. Clean them regularly to prevent clogs and ensure efficient drainage.
• Trim Landscaping: Trim plants and trees near your stucco walls to prevent them from touching or leaning against the stucco. Overgrown vegetation can trap moisture and potentially damage the stucco.
• Inspect Flashing: Check the flashing around windows, doors, and other penetrations. Ensure that it's intact and properly sealed to prevent water from infiltrating behind the stucco.
• Recoat or Repaint: Depending on the condition of your stucco, you may need to recoat or repaint it every few years. This not only refreshes the appearance but also provides an additional protective layer against moisture.
• Consider Waterproofing: Applying a waterproofing sealer to your stucco can provide an extra layer of protection against Houston's humidity and occasional heavy rains.
• Select the Right Caulk: Choose a high-quality exterior caulk suitable for stucco. Silicone or elastomeric caulk is a good choice for flexibility and durability.
• Professional Inspection: Periodically, consider hiring a professional stucco contractor to conduct a thorough inspection of your stucco. They can identify any issues you may have missed and recommend the necessary repairs or maintenance.
• Address Water Intrusion Promptly: If you notice any signs of water intrusion, such as mold or staining on the interior walls, address it promptly. Identify and repair the source of the intrusion to prevent further damage.

Common Causes of Damage:

• Moisture Intrusion: Water infiltration through gaps, cracks, or poorly sealed penetrations can damage the substrate. This can lead to wood rot, decay, or the deterioration of other materials.
• Settlement: As a building settles over time, it can cause stress on the substrate, potentially leading to cracks and damage.
• Inadequate Fastening: If the stucco is not properly fastened to the substrate or if the fasteners become loose over time, it can result in bulging or separations.
• Termites and Pests: In some regions, termites and other pests can infest wood substrates, causing structural damage that can affect the stucco.

How to Protect a Stucco Substrate:

• Proper Installation: Ensure that the stucco is applied correctly by experienced professionals. Proper installation includes appropriate preparation of the substrate, adequate fastening, and the use of the right materials, such as waterproofing, vapor barriers, and breathable building paper.
• Flashing and Moisture Barriers: Install flashing and moisture barriers around windows, doors, and other penetrations to prevent water intrusion. This helps protect the substrate from moisture-related damage.
• Quality Sealant and Caulking: Use high-quality sealant and caulking around joints, seams, and penetrations to prevent water from seeping into the substrate.
• Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of the stucco exterior to check for any signs of damage, such as cracks or bulging. Promptly address any issues to prevent further damage to the substrate.
• Moisture Management: Ensure proper moisture management and drainage systems around your property to prevent water pooling near the stucco, which can lead to substrate damage.
• Termite Protection: If you live in an area prone to termite infestations, consider implementing termite protection measures for the substrate, such as treated wood or regular inspections by pest control professionals.
• Maintain and Repair: Keep up with stucco maintenance, including resealing and repainting as needed. Repair any cracks or damage promptly to prevent moisture from reaching the substrate.
• Choose Durable Materials: When renovating or building, select durable and moisture-resistant substrate materials that are suitable for the local climate.
• Consult Solidstucco: If you suspect substrate damage or are unsure about the condition of your stucco system, consult with us or qualified stucco inspectors. We can assess the situation and recommend appropriate repairs or improvements.

Repairing and waterproofing a balcony:

• Assessment and Inspection: Begin by thoroughly inspecting the balcony for visible damage, cracks, or signs of water intrusion. Pay attention to the balcony surface, railing, and any nearby walls or structures.
• Crack Repair: Address any cracks or gaps in the balcony surface promptly. Use a suitable concrete or masonry repair product to fill and seal these areas. Ensure the repaired surface is smooth and level.
• Railing and Structure Inspection: Inspect the balcony's railings and structural components for signs of rust, corrosion, or deterioration. Replace or repair any damaged or weakened elements to ensure safety.
• Flashing Installation: Install metal flashing around the perimeter of the balcony, where it meets the exterior wall of the building. Properly installed flashing helps divert water away from vulnerable areas and prevents moisture intrusion.
• Waterproofing Membrane: Apply a waterproofing membrane to the balcony surface. This membrane creates a protective barrier that prevents water from penetrating the concrete or substrate underneath.
• Sealing Penetrations: Seal any penetrations in the balcony surface, such as anchor holes or joints, using a high-quality sealant or caulk designed for outdoor use. Ensure a watertight seal to prevent water from seeping through.
• Railing Flashing: Install flashing or a waterproof membrane at the base of the railing posts where they meet the balcony surface. This prevents water from infiltrating the post holes and potentially causing damage.

Preventing water penetration damage:

• Regular Maintenance: Conduct regular inspections of the balcony, especially after heavy rain or storms, to identify any signs of damage or water intrusion. Address issues promptly.
• Cleaning: Keep the balcony clean from dirt and debris. Clean the surface regularly with a broom or a gentle pressure wash to prevent clogs in drainage systems.
• Proper Drainage: Ensure that the balcony has a suitable slope that allows water to drain away from the building and toward designated drainage points. Keep drainage systems clear and functional.
• Sealant Maintenance: Periodically inspect and reseal any caulk or sealant used on the balcony, such as around railings, joints, or penetrations. Replace any deteriorated sealant promptly.
• Balcony Usage: Minimize excessive weight or concentrated loads on the balcony, as they can stress the structure and potentially lead to cracks or damage.
• Balcony Coverings: Consider installing a protective covering or awning over the balcony to shield it from direct exposure to rain and UV rays, which can help extend the life of the waterproofing system.
• Professional Inspection: Periodically consult with Solidstucco to assess the balcony's condition and waterproofing integrity.

Maintenance

• Regular Cleaning: Remove dirt, dust, and debris from the veneer stone surface regularly. Use a soft brush, sponge, or a pressure washer (with care) to clean the stones and grout.
• Mold and Mildew Control: In Houston's humid climate, mold and mildew can be common issues. Use a mildew-resistant cleaner to remove and prevent the growth of these organisms.
• Sealing: Apply a high-quality stone sealer to the veneer surface. Sealing helps protect the stone from moisture penetration, staining, and UV damage. Reapply the sealer as needed, typically every 1–3 years.
• Inspect for Damage: Regularly inspect the veneer stone for any signs of damage, such as cracks, loose stones, or missing mortar. Address these issues promptly.
• Grout Maintenance: Inspect and repair grout lines between the stones. Cracked or deteriorated grout can allow water to penetrate behind the veneer.

Removal (if necessary)

• Safety Precautions: Prioritize safety when removing veneer stone. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety glasses, gloves, and dust masks.
• Assessment: Evaluate the condition of the veneer and the reasons for removal. If the veneer is severely damaged, structurally unsound, or if you are renovating, removal may be necessary.
• Tools and Techniques: Use a masonry chisel, hammer, or grout removal tool to carefully pry and remove the veneer stones. Work systematically, starting from the top and moving down.
• Disposal of Materials:
• Properly dispose of the removed veneer stones and mortar. Some stones can be reused, while others may need replacement.
• Repairs
• Stone Replacement: If any veneer stones are damaged or need replacement, carefully remove them and replace them with matching stones. Ensure the new stones fit snugly in place.
• Mortar Repairs: Repair any damaged or deteriorated mortar joints. Remove loose or crumbling mortar and replace it with fresh mortar mix, ensuring proper adhesion.
• Re-Sealing: After making repairs, reapply a stone sealer to the entire veneer surface to maintain its protection against moisture and staining.
• Professional Assistance: For extensive repairs or if you're unsure about the condition of your veneer stone, consider consulting with Solidstucco, who specializes in stone veneer.
• Preventive Measures: Continue with regular maintenance practices to prevent future issues and extend the life of your veneer stone.

You can reach us by calling (713) 478-1942, emailing info@solidstucco.com, or using the contact form here on our site.

We can't wait to hear from you!

We specialize in the following services: 

• Stucco Maintenance
• Balcony Repairs
• Stucco Painting

If you have any questions about this list or aren't seeing what you're looking for, please reach out, and we'll help you in any way we can. We look forward to hearing from you!

• Visual Inspections: Conducting visual inspections of the stucco finish to identify any visible defects, cracks, or areas of concern. This includes examining the stucco surface for signs of water damage, mold growth, or other issues.
• Moisture Testing: Using moisture meters and other specialized tools to assess the moisture levels within the stucco system and the underlying substrate. High moisture levels can indicate potential water intrusion problems.
• Substrate Evaluation and Stucco Invasive Report: Evaluating the condition of the substrate (such as wood, plywood, or sheathing) beneath the stucco to ensure it is structurally sound and appropriate for stucco installation.
• Flashing and Sealant Inspection: Checking the installation of flashing, sealants, and weatherproofing components around windows, doors, and other penetrations to ensure they are correctly installed and effectively prevent moisture intrusion.
• Code Compliance: Verifying that the stucco system complies with local building codes, regulations, and industry standards.
• Documentation Review: reviewing construction documentation, including permits and architectural plans, to ensure that the stucco installation adheres to approved specifications.
• Report Generation: Compiling inspection findings into a detailed report that outlines any identified issues, defects, or areas requiring attention. The report may also include recommendations for repairs or remediation.
• Consultation: providing consultation and guidance to property owners, builders, contractors, or other stakeholders on how to address stucco-related problems and improve the performance and durability of the stucco system.
• Recommendations: recommending necessary repairs, maintenance, or modifications to address identified issues and prevent further damage to the stucco or underlying structure.