How to Build a Stucco House
Stucco has been used as a building material for centuries. It is made up of cement, sand, and water. The material is easy to work with and has many design possibilities in a modern building environment. The cost involved is higher during the building process, but the back-end savings from heating and cooling will offset extra costs.
Required Materials
- stucco mix
- water
- level
- wire lathe
- nails
- staging
- framing materials
- screws
- paint
- staples
Required Tools
- hammer
- level
- trowel
- wheelbarrow
- portable mixer (optional)
- drill with assorted bits
- paint sprayer
- staple gun
Instructions
- Foundations - As with any structure, the foundation is the most important element. There are two basic foundation types: slab and wall foundations. In each case, the foundation should be poured so that the home can be connected to the subsoil. If the home is in a frost location, make sure the foundation reaches below the frost line so the foundation does not crack or shift in cold weather.
- Walls - Both new and old materials are being used today to achieve more energy-efficient homes. Hay bails are seeing a resurgence as walls because they act as good insulators. Whatever the materials used for the walls, you can always incorporate stucco as a final element.
- Attachment Mechanism - Once the basic framing, plumbing, and electrical workings have been put in place, you can begin covering your home. The first layer needs to be a durable material for receiving the stucco. Thin wooden slats called lathe were used in the past; now you’ll need to attach wire mesh to the wall system. Use staples or nails as needed to keep the mesh tight to the wall.
- Mixing Stucco - The ratios for mixing stucco vary depending upon whom you talk to. Some like a stiff mix; others prefer a wetter consistency. Generally, a soft ice-cream-like consistency is ideal.
- Scratch Coat - The scratch coat is designed to fill space and make the initial connection to the mesh. Lay it on with your trowel in a push-and-smooth motion - the idea is to push the mortar into the mesh voids. Make sure the finish is relatively smooth, but not overly so.
- Finish Coat - After the scratch coat has been applied, begin troweling on the final coat. Apply in a somewhat less aggressive manner, aiming for an even application. If the final coat begins to dry out as you work, spray some water on the affected area while avoiding other areas that have been finished or are still to be worked on.
- Paint - Some stucco finishes come with a tint and this can be your final color if you choose. However, stucco accepts paint easily - use a power sprayer for an even application of color.