As most home improvement projects are planned and expected, stucco remediation often comes as a surprise to homeowners. In many cases, a home with stucco cladding may be experiencing significant problems and it is of utmost importance to partner with a building science expert to properly remediate the home.

With this in mind, Five Star Contractors sought out an opportunity to partner with the country’s top building science experts. A benefit of this partnership is a unique understanding of the exterior envelope in its entirety, and how building science best practices properly integrate into a successful remodeling project. 

To execute this strategy, a work force of experienced, well-trained remediation specialists is required to implement these details successfully.

Above all, a commitment to excellence and the highest moral standard is the foundation of the success of Five Star Contractors, and is the reason for a lifetime partnership with our clients and their homes.

House & Home Magazine spoke with President Michal Zelubowski to get a better understanding of stucco remediation and what customers need to consider!

What is the true definition of stucco remediation?
A common misconception among un-informed homeowners is that stucco remediation is simply replacing stucco cladding with another cladding. This couldn’t be further from the truth, as stucco remediation is a full-scale multi-trade process of repairing underlying damage, and then rebuilding the entire exterior building envelope of the home based on building science best practices.

Why is there a problem with stucco homes?
While stucco problems occur for multiple reasons, the issues are moisture related. Problems with stucco are also more prevalent in areas of the country with high humidity and rainfall.

• Since stucco is a very porous material, most stucco problems have to do with trapped moisture. 
• In addition, improper window installation and lack of proper flashing around fenestrations allow water into the wall system.
• While easy to blame builders, the truth is that U.S. Building codes always trail best building practices.  This leads to another issue with unintended consequences of the energy efficiency movement with insulating walls and air tide construction without redesigning other components of the home.

Should windows, decks, patios and other exterior components be included in remediation?
Yes, a comprehensive approach and understanding of how these components work together is precisely what separates Five Star Contractors from most exterior remodelers. These must all work together in harmony, as the connection between components is typically the weakest and most critical point.

How much does stucco remediation cost?
The size of home and complexity of the scope of work will determine the budget of the project.  On average, remediation of a 3000sqft home will typically range anywhere from 80k-120k.  Costs may increase beyond this range not only when upgrades and scope are added, but if significant damage is found.  This is why it is critical not to delay a remediation project, as damage will progress over time, increasing investment needed to repair it.

How does a homeowner select a contractor for a remediation project?
This will be the most important decision a homeowner makes. There is a time and place to focus on design features, but first and foremost a homeowner must find and select a partner who has unparalleled expertise in building science best practices. Industry leaders such as architects and inspectors can be a valuable source of reference, but to make a proper decision, the homeowner must invest the time with the contractor to truly understand the problem and a proper solution.

Five Star Contractors
fivestarcontractors.com | (610) 827-1797 | Malvern, PA

Published (and copyrighted) in House & Home, Volume 22, Issue 12 (September 2022). 
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