Traditional Stucco or Synthetic Stucco Applied over Concrete Block Walls
Traditional Portland cement stucco or Synthetic Stucco may be applied over the surface of concrete block walls for a variety of reasons. It may be to enhance the appearance of the building, to level out irregularities of alignment of the blocks, to achieve uniformity and continuity of surface where concrete blocks abut other construction materials, and to provide alternative attractive textures or additional resistance to intrusion of moisture. Concrete blocks provide an excellent base for stucco because of the solidity and integrity of block walls and freedom from some of the problems associated with wood framing.
Application of stucco over concrete block walls contributes to resistance of walls to absorption or intrusion of water, because of greater density and slower rate of absorption of moisture into cement plaster, compared with concrete blocks. In addition, the membrane of plaster is extremely beneficial in deflecting rain. This can be further enhanced by the application of a cementitious waterproof coating like Omega Products International’s Omega Block during the preparation phase of the block wall prior to the stucco color coat.
Masonry walls, like concrete, provide a stable base for stucco because of virtual freedom from shrinkage, expansion, warping or subsidence; any or all of which may occur in wood framing. Stucco that is bonded directly to blocks generally does not suffer from shrinkage cracking which may occur over open frame construction. Also, stucco applied over a block base generally is not affected by structural stresses which may cause cracks in plaster over wood framing. If you’re considering this for your property, give us a call at (619) 561-7429 or reach out to us through our Contact Form.