Shielding Your Home: Post-Repair Water Damage Prevention Tips
Fixing stucco cracks is important, but it’s equally crucial to make sure water doesn’t sneak into those repairs and cause more damage. Once you’ve taken care of a stucco crack repair, there are essential steps you can follow to prevent water from being a problem later on.
Choose the Right Sealant
After repairing stucco cracks, make sure to use a high-quality sealant. Cheap or wrong sealants might not do the trick and could let water slip through. Look for one that’s specifically made for outdoor use and resistant to moisture. A good sealant does more than just cover cracks—it forms a waterproof barrier that stops water in its tracks.
Inspect Regularly for New Cracks
Even with the best repair, new cracks can still form over time. Regular inspections of your stucco walls help catch these new cracks early before they turn into bigger problems. Take a close look every few months and after heavy storms, paying extra attention to where cracking is common, like around windows and doors.
Ensure Proper Drainage
Proper drainage keeps water away from your stucco walls altogether. Ensure your gutters and downspouts are clean and free of debris so they can efficiently direct rainfall away from your home. Ground slope also matters; if it slopes toward your house instead of away, it may lead to pooling water near your stucco.
Add or Update Exterior Paint
The right exterior paint enhances the waterproofing ability of your stucco walls. Select an elastomeric paint—it’s flexible and durable against expanding and contracting surfaces. An added layer of good paint acts like another shield against potential water penetration linked to future weather conditions.
Monitor Moisture Levels Inside Your Home
Excess moisture inside can eventually lead to problems outside on the stucco walls. Use dehumidifiers in areas prone to high humidity, such as basements or bathrooms. Adequate ventilation throughout your home helps maintain balanced indoor moisture levels which can indirectly affect exterior conditions too.
If you’re looking for expert assistance in Metairie, LA, contact SM Stucco at (985) 208-3861. We’re here to help with all your needs related to stucco crack repair and make sure your home stays protected year-round!