Why Are Stucco Houses Cold?

Using Stucco

• Stucco is mixed and then applied directly to brick or stone walls. If your house has stone walls, these may be the cause of the cold, rather than the stucco exterior. When applied to wooden walls, stucco requires a base of damp wooden strips, called lath, or a layer of plasterboard to give it grip. Builders commonly apply stucco in two or three layers. If the surface to which it is applied is very dry, the surface absorbs moisture from the stucco too quickly, resulting in cracks that can allow cold outdoor air to enter.

Warm the Ingredients

• For best results when working with stucco, apply it during warm weather or at a temperature of at least 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Warm the ingredients if necessary, and cover the exterior surfaces until the stucco dries. Ensure that it does not freeze within the first 48 hours, since this causes retention of excess water as the material sets, which can result in degradation.

Moisture Retention

• The main reason why a stucco house might be cold is the ability of the material to absorb and retain moisture. Damp walls can freeze in a cold climate, making the temperature of the home drop further. The dampness can also result in damage to the surface of the building and a subsequent loss of heat because of the degradation. The presence of water in a stucco wall covering causes the material to crack as it dries out during the heat of summer. This creates additional passages for cold, outdoor air to enter and hot, indoor air to leave.

Temperature Control

• For a stucco house that is cold, check to see whether the stucco is damaged in any way. If you find that moisture is a problem, repair the stucco by removing damaged material and replacing it with fresh product. Check the fittings of windows and doors, and seal any gaps. Investigate the insulation used in your roof and walls, and perform any repairs needed to weatherize the house. Ensure that the floors are also well insulated, and your stucco house should no longer be cold.