Introduction to Stucco Inspections with Michael Spadaccini

 

Stucco:

  • A fine plaster used for coating wall surfaces or molding into architectural decorations.

EIFS:

  • Copy-cat companies emerged in residential communications without passing specification tests and national building codes.
  • The rapid growth of residential EIFS began in the expanding southern suburban residential market.
  • In 1994, almost 35% of new homes used EIFS.
  • In 1995, nearly 50% of new homes in Virginia, Texas, and the Carolinas had at least some type of EIFS system.

What happened?

  • System failures became evident.
  • Moisture and mold issues have become prevalent.
  • A load of complaints flooded building inspectors and manufacturers.
  • They found poor quality windows, no flashing, no sealants, allowing water behind the EIFS system. 

You need to identify what kind of system the house is using – are they using EIFS or Stucco? The applications are the same, but the materials can drastically change.

Options for evaluations:

  • Noninvasive
    • Visual evaluation
    • Wall meters and infrared devices
    • Perfect for masonry substrate
  • Invasive
    • Preliminary visual evaluation
    • Plus, physical data:
      • Overall thickness
      • Substrate resistance
      • Moisture content percentage
      • Full report and photos
      • Drilling holes at suspect locations
  • Typical locations of visible concern
    • Beneath windows at the corner
    • Minor cracking
    • Roof and wall intersections
    • Areas in contact with bulk water
  • Devices:
    • The surface pinless moisture meter device
    • Infrared device

HomeGauge Software:

Tablet or phone allows you to take detailed pictures on HomeGauge.

Visit Michael’s site: www.stuccotesting.net

Email Michael: stuccotesting@gmail.com

Session Recording


Introduction to Stucco Inspections with Michael Spadaccini

Presenter: Michael Spadaccini — Michael Angelo Masonry, LTD

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