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How to Fill in Stucco

Stucco is a common siding material in Mediterranean and Southwestern architecture. Although stucco is reinforced with mortar, it is applied in a thin layer that is prone to cracking, chipping and even crumbling. Patching stucco is a simple task, although it may be complicated by the need to replace the substrate.

Things You'll Need

  • Hammer
  • Cold chisel
  • Wire cutters
  • Steel stucco mesh (optional)
  • Galvanized nails
  • Stucco patching compound
  • Masonry trowel
  • Scrap timber
  • Bristle brush (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the damaged stucco using a hammer and cold chisel.

    • 2

      Examine the wall underneath the stucco. If the stucco was applied over steel mesh, inspect the mesh for damage.

    • 3

      Cut away the damaged mesh with wire cutters. Cut a new piece to fit the gap, and fasten it to the wall with galvanized nails. If the underlying wall is damaged, conduct repairs as necessary.

    • 4

      Mix a batch of stucco patching compound, following the manufacturer's directions. Apply the compound by spreading it over the damaged area with a masonry trowel. Even the stucco to the level of the surrounding wall by dragging a piece of scrap lumber, such as a 2-by-4, across the face of the wall.

    • 5

      Texture the stucco patch with the trowel or a bristle brush to match the texture of the surrounding stucco as necessary.