Stucco Repair and Replacement
With the changing climate conditions in Utah, improperly installed stucco systems and other exteriors can fail to keep moisture from penetrating the structure of your home or building. The "one coat" stucco system that is commonly used in Utah can actually hold moisture, and combined with poor workmanship can cause significant damage to your structure. Compared to brick or exterior siding, a stucco system requires the same careful installation to seal out the elements, especially at window connections and roof-to-wall connections. With the acrylic topcoat of the "one coat" stucco system however, damage can occur throughout the structure in the wood framing where excessive moisture can build up behind what looks like a perfectly good stucco wall. Conventional three-coat stucco systems used in other climates don't work well in Utah because freezing moisture can cause even more damage. We can detect and repair this damage and carefully install stucco systems which allow for minimal saturation and rapid draining and drying.
Cosmetic Stucco Repair and Reinforcement
Random cracking that frequently starts at the corners of windows is considered normal. Cracks should not be blamed for leaks. A secondary system behind the stucco is what keeps water from the frame and the inside of the home. However,
isolated cracking and staining indicate there’s a problem. Simply covering the cracks with a new stucco finish or with paint is not the solution, and may exacerbate the problem by keeping the wall from drying out properly, thus causing the rotting of the wood framing and plywood sheathing.
The cosmetic problem of random cracking can only be properly fixed by using a reinforcing mesh embedded in a base coat and then covered with a repair coat and then a finishing coat. Otherwise the cracks will eventually come through the new paint or stucco finish.
isolated cracking and staining indicate there’s a problem. Simply covering the cracks with a new stucco finish or with paint is not the solution, and may exacerbate the problem by keeping the wall from drying out properly, thus causing the rotting of the wood framing and plywood sheathing.
The cosmetic problem of random cracking can only be properly fixed by using a reinforcing mesh embedded in a base coat and then covered with a repair coat and then a finishing coat. Otherwise the cracks will eventually come through the new paint or stucco finish.
Roof Replacement and Repair
Proper roof replacement is done by tying the roof to the home's exterior (stucco, brick or siding) and the connecting building .
Replacing roofing shingles as a solution to a leaky roof is usually not sufficient. The underlayment and the flashing are important components of your roof. When properly installing or repairing a roof, the process may involve some removal and replacement of the the stucco in the connecting structures. Connections between roof eaves and stucco walls are prone to problems. Improperly installed or missing roofing components (rain gutters, diverters, kickouts, turnout flashings) can lead to water intrusion behind the stucco. With our knowledge in the methods involved in this construction, we can make sure that these roof-to-wall connections are done correctly, preventing any water intrusion problems. We can also correctly replace any other affected components of your structure.
Replacing roofing shingles as a solution to a leaky roof is usually not sufficient. The underlayment and the flashing are important components of your roof. When properly installing or repairing a roof, the process may involve some removal and replacement of the the stucco in the connecting structures. Connections between roof eaves and stucco walls are prone to problems. Improperly installed or missing roofing components (rain gutters, diverters, kickouts, turnout flashings) can lead to water intrusion behind the stucco. With our knowledge in the methods involved in this construction, we can make sure that these roof-to-wall connections are done correctly, preventing any water intrusion problems. We can also correctly replace any other affected components of your structure.
Diverter and Kickout Repair and Installation
Diverters and kickout flashings will fail if not installed correctly. Many homes that have these components still experience staining and cracking in the stucco wall starting at the roof eave. Other times, the improper installation can allow small amounts of water to be absorbed and trapped behind the stucco, rotting the wood framing. This damage can remain undetected for a long while. Several important steps need to be taken as the connections are made to insure that water doesn't travel into the home's structure.
Soffit and Fascia Installation and Replacement
Soffit and fascia components need to be installed in the proper way at roof-to-wall connections. All these components need to be tied into the stucco in a certain way. We can replace wood soffit and fascia with aluminum ones that don't require maintenance and that won't rust.
Installation and Replacement of Chimney Caps and Shrouds
Chimney caps and shrouds can be attractive enhancements to your home along with being a source of protection for the structure. However, they must be properly installed to provide this protection. We can replace an improperly installed chimney cap. Water can get into the structure through fastener holes in the top of the cap. Caulking can crack and eventually allow water into the construction. We will place the fasteners through the sides of the cap. Similar problems can result where the flu passes through the cap. Once again, caulking is not enough as it can age and fail. A properly installed flu and collar can prevent any damage caused by water.
Interior Drywall Repairs
As we repair dry rot in the wall, we find it necessary to repair the interiors. We have our own crew that will repair or replace drywall and will do the finish and paint. We will go to great lengths to make it as convenient for you as we work in your home, and will make sure that we leave your home clean and undamaged.