How to Stucco a House Using Foam

Dig to a depth of about six inches around the foundation of the wall where you will be installing the stucco. Wash the installation surface with a pressure washer to remove dirt, which would prevent glue from sticking properly. Let the walls completely air-dry before proceeding.

Cut Styrofoam panels to fit the surface area of the wall where you will install stucco. Apply horizontal and vertical lines of construction adhesive about one inch apart on the back side of the Styrofoam panels. Place the panels in the desired location on the wall, and apply pressure across the surface of the panels to secure them to the wall.

Slide a button shank onto masonry bolts to prevent the heads from going through the Styrofoam. Drill a pilot hole that is about a quarter to half of the diameter of the masonry bolt with a carbide drill bit. Drill the masonry bolts into the pilot hole. Space the bolts about 12 inches apart horizontally and vertically.

Cut sections of 1/2-inch wire mesh to fit the area where you applied the Styrofoam panels. Hold the wire mesh over top of the Styrofoam, and staple it in place using a staple gun. Space the staples about 12 inches apart horizontally and vertically.

Mix the dry stucco with water in a large bucket, following the instructions on the package. Insert the hose to the stucco sprayer into the wet mixture, and apply a thin layer by spraying the stucco in a smooth back-and-forth motion. Lightly cover the wire mesh in the first application so it is not visible.

Let the first layer of stucco dry until it is not tacky to the touch. Apply a second layer of stucco using the same process. Blot the wet stucco with a large damp sponge to soften the surface about 15 minutes after applying the second layer. Let the surface dry for 24 to 48 hours. Apply a third layer of stucco if the dried stucco is not smooth or some areas are uneven.

Let the wall dry for 48 hours. Avoid letting the wall get wet during the drying time. After drying, paint the stucco wall if you want to change the color.