What exactly is stucco redashing? Is it the same as re-stucco?
No, they're not the same, and honestly, it's a question I hear all the time. Think of redashing as giving your existing stucco a fresh, new skin. We're not ripping everything off down to the sheathing or lath. Instead, we get the current stucco surface ready, then put a new finish coat right over it. It's kind of like painting your walls, but you're getting a textured, super durable stucco finish instead of just a coat of paint. Re-stucco, though, usually means we're stripping away the old stucco completely and starting from scratch with all the layers – the scratch, brown, and finish coats. Redashing is just less invasive, quicker, and generally more affordable because we're building on a solid foundation that's already there, you know?
When should I consider redashing my stucco instead of just painting it?
This is exactly where my years of experience here in Yuma really come into play. You should definitely think about redashing when your stucco looks older than what a simple paint job can fix, but it's still structurally sound. I'm talking about things like a bunch of hairline cracks that are just too many to patch one by one, color that's faded way past its prime, or a finish that's turned chalky and worn out. If you've got a lot of minor surface damage, or if the texture just seems tired and dated, redashing gives you a completely new, uniform surface. Painting just covers up the old problems; redashing actually gives you a fresh, durable layer that can stick around for decades. Now, if your stucco is delaminating, has big holes, or water's getting behind it, then you're probably looking at a more extensive repair or even a full re-stucco, not just redashing.
What's the process for redashing? What can I expect?
First off, we check your existing stucco to make sure it's a good fit for redashing. We're looking for any big structural issues or widespread moisture problems. If it passes muster, we start with a really good cleaning of the surface. You wouldn't put new stucco over dirt and grime, right? Sometimes, we'll pressure wash it; other times, a good scrub is plenty. Then, we take care of any minor cracks or small repairs that need attention. After that, we put on a bonding agent. This step is super important; it makes sure the new finish coat sticks properly to the old stucco. Without it, you're just asking for trouble down the road. Finally, we apply the new finish coat. This is where you get to pick your new color and texture. We can match existing textures or give you a completely new look, whether it's a smooth Santa Fe finish or something with more texture. It's a pretty straightforward process, but every single step has to be done right for it to last.
How long does a redashed stucco finish typically last in Yuma's climate?
Our intense Yuma sun and dry heat really put stucco through its paces. But if it's done right by a reputable company like Yuma Stucco & Plastering, a redashed finish can easily last 15-25 years, sometimes even longer. The big factors are the quality of the materials we use, proper surface preparation, and good application techniques. That bonding agent I mentioned earlier? It's a huge deal, as is making sure the finish coat goes on at the correct thickness. Our climate here, with its high UV exposure and extreme temperature swings, really tests materials. That's why we don't ever cut corners. While the dry air is great for preventing mold, it can make materials brittle over time if they're not tough enough. So, yes, it lasts a long time, but only if you invest in quality work.
Will redashing fix existing cracks in my stucco?
It really depends on the type of cracks. Redashing is excellent for covering up and effectively