Why does stucco crack?

Stucco, at best, is misunderstood as a durable and low maintenance façade. When we use stucco on our new builds, this increases the curb appeal with a mediterranean or west-coast feel. If you live in the midwest or on the east-coast, as I do, you will see these types of homes blanketing the suburbs. From a distance the home will look great, as the years pass, the stucco will begin to discolor, crack and spall. Most stucco in residential construction is not installed with the proper wall ventilation, moisture barriers or expansion joints. Sinking foundations can also cause cracks but are much less common than you would think.

A properly constructed stucco home is not impervious to cracking. Instead, a proper application of a 2-coat stucco will increase the longevity of the wall. Directionally, the cracks should be isolated with the use of expansion joints. Expansion joints are used on the east-coast on a regular basis, on commercial buildings. The extension of more strict building requirements for residential construction is not in most home-builder's or home-buyer's interests, because it increases building costs.

What if I have an older stucco home, how do I mainain it? You will need to be willing to remove stucco from areas with the most weather exposure. Stucco under your eaves or in smaller isolated sections away from the rain are going to handle the years much better. Stucco walls that come in close contact with landscaping, rain, or moisture in general are going to need a lot of maintenance for years to come. if you live in a humid climate, the best way to get ahead of it; is to remove it. There are some exceptions, stucco over masonry foundation walls or block-construction is acceptable.

If you can't replace the stucco: Your HOA or township is actively preventing you from altering the exterior of your home for "reasons in the interest of the community".

Ok, heres what you will need to do: Fix the cracks and apply a stucco paint. I have seen stucco cracks and leaks stopped with a somewhat expensive paint made for stucco and masonry walls. Masonry and stucco need to breath to allow for moisture to escape. When we paint over the surface we prevent the natural drying process from taking place. You will want to use this method sparingly, but it is a great temporary solution

Home Owners Resources: https://www.behr.com/consumer/products/specialty-paint/masonry-stucco-and-brick-paint/behr-premium-masonry-stucco-brick-paint-satin