When I bought my house, the previous owner had not waterproofed the walls behind the planter areas. I re-stuccoed the entire home using a Santa Barbara Finish. Within a year or so I began to notice efflorescence and a resultant spalling of the stucco surface just behind the planter areas. I knew the best fix was to waterproof the positive side of the wall. That is, the side with the dirt and moisture in it. However, as with most jobs like this, I did not want to dig out the back in the wall.
So I did the next best thing:
1. Using a 3 lb. sledge hammer and a wall scraper. I removed any material that was punky, spalling, or sounded hollow. This is the concept of: “the next coat is only as sound as the surface you are going over.”
2. I mixed up and spread Merlex Super Blockade to stop the water or moisture from coming through. I made sure to put on at least 2 coats.
3. I then used LevelX to cover the Super Blockade and also to build up those areas that had been removed. I added some Acrylex to the Levelex to ensure a good bond. In some places it took two coats to build up the material level with the existing Santa Barbara Finish that was remaining.
4. There were some areas the Santa Barbara finish was still functionally good but pitted and ugly from the damage cost by efflorescence. We rolled SuperHold on the smooth surface before applying the LevelX. Again this is to insure bond of the subsequent coat.
At this point, the wall is ready for stucco.
Stucco should go on next week…. I will send the final pics and any comments following…
This was a useful home repair lesson and shows why planning ahead matters with moisture protection. Small issues can turn into bigger ones without the right steps. At Concrete Company Goodyear, we also believe good prep work and strong materials help create surfaces that last much longer.
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ReplyDeleteWe like how you explain the problem and the fix in a simple way. Water issues can cause big damage over time. In our Concrete Contractor Cedar City work, we also see how waterproofing helps walls last longer. This is helpful and easy for homeowners to understand.
ReplyDeleteWe like how you explained the problem and solution in a simple way. It shows how moisture can really affect walls over time. In our Concrete Contractor Athens work, we also focus on proper sealing and prep so surfaces stay strong, clean, and last longer. Great helpful share!
ReplyDeleteWe like how you explained the wall issue and the fix in a simple way. It shows how water can cause damage over time. In our Concrete Contractor Surprise work, we also focus on stopping problems early. Clear tips like this help everyone keep their homes strong.
ReplyDeleteWe like how you explained the wall problem and simple fix ideas. It helps us see why waterproofing matters. Small details can save big repairs later. In our work with Wood Fence Installation Gainesville FL, we also focus on strong protection. This was clear, helpful, and easy to understand.
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