How to Repair Hairline Cracks in Stucco

We would all love for stucco to stay perfect until the end of time, but that won’t happen without a little maintenance on our part. While stucco repair isn’t as simple as we might like, with a little patience and know-how, it’s very doable. Read on to learn about how to repair hairline cracks in stucco.

4 Steps for How to Repair Hairline Cracks in Stucco

1. Assess: If the crack measures between 1/16” to 1/8″, this fits within the cosmetic category of hairline cracks. Proceed with the next steps. If it’s bigger, or you’re not sure, check out worrisome cracks in stucco, which should only be repaired by a professional.
2. Prepare: Bear with us here, because this next step will seem illogical. Before applying any type of caulking, use a hammer and chisel to widen the crack to 1/4″. Use the chisel to create a wider base and then slimmer toward the top. Imagine a super-skinny upside-down triangle. Why would you make a crack bigger first? This actually will help the caulk adhere and last.
3. Repair: Choose a high-quality stucco repair product that can be applied with a caulking gun. Begin at the top and squeeze a consistent bead of product into the crack. Once you’ve completely filled the crack with caulk, smooth out the product with a trowel to remove any excess. Allow it to dry, and check to see if another layer of caulk is needed to create an even surface.
4. Finish: Paint the repaired crack to match the stucco using a high-quality, acrylic-based paint that resists moisture.

After reviewing the process of how to repair hairline cracks in stucco, you can see how involved even the smallest fix is. Realize that the steps above are best performed by professionals because of our experience and that DIY stucco solutions don’t always last. However, if you still want to attempt the repair yourself, remember to be safe. You’ll want to wear work gloves, goggles, and a face mask. Also, understand that the fix we’ve described will not work for deeper cracks or cracks that have already incurred moisture. Deeper or more excessive cracks require stucco experts for repair and remediation.

Avoid a Hairy Situation! Call Ai Restoration to Assess Your Home.

For any concerns with your stucco, call our experts at Ai Restoration at 215-794-6858. We’ll make sure that any cracks, especially those that are deeper than the surface, get repaired properly. Your home is worth it!