Chimney parging and stucco repairs in Riverside Park
The water source is found first, so the new stucco is not left to fail below an open leak.
- Owned and run locally
- Available for same-day service
- Fully licensed and insured
- Family owned and run
How failing chimney stucco shows itself
- Hollow sound when the stucco is tapped
- Old patches cracking at their edges
- Stucco pulling away at a corner
- Stains in the attic near the chimney
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What goes into a lasting stucco repair
Clues to what sits behind the stucco
Several clues help identify the base without opening the wall. A metal cover on top usually points to a framed chase around a factory-built chimney. A poured crown with clay flue tiles usually points to masonry. A metal strip along the bottom edge of the plaster suggests lath on framing.
Tapping the surface adds more information, and so can a look from the attic where it is accessible. None of these clues is proof on its own. If they disagree, we say so and explain what a small, approved opening would settle.
What the free stucco inspection looks at
The free inspection covers the visible stucco on every accessible face of the chimney. We look at cracks, bulges, stains, previous patches and the top and bottom edges of the plaster.
We also look at the parts that feed water into the stucco, including the top, the roof junction and the base. Where something is out of view, we say so. By the end of the visit you know which areas we could reach, which we could not, and the repair we suggest. A free written estimate follows.
A horizontal stucco crack near the roof line
A crack running across the chimney close to the roof line deserves attention. It can reflect movement between the chimney and the roof, a change in the base material, or water getting behind the plaster at the flashing.
We look at the flashing, the roof surface and the stucco edge together. If the crack follows a joint between two materials, a rigid patch alone may crack again. We explain what we believe is happening and which repair suits that cause, before any plaster is removed.
Getting ready for the stucco inspection
A little preparation makes the free inspection more useful. Clear a path to each side of the chimney and to the attic hatch if there is one, and move items stored against the base.
Gather what you know about the chimney's history, such as earlier patches, paint dates and any leaks inside. If you have old papers about work on the house, set them out. We review them with you, and they often explain what we find on the wall. Keep pets indoors while we work around the base.
Stucco repair scope for homes in Riverside Park
- Lath and fasteners in the repair area
- Scratch coat keyed to the base
- Protection for paving and plants
- Open top covered at each day's end
Common questions on stucco chimneys
How do you tell stucco over block from stucco over framing?
We look at the top first, because a metal cover usually means a framed chase and a concrete crown usually means masonry. Tapping, the bottom edge and the attic view add more. Where the clues disagree, we suggest a small opening you approve.
Can new stucco go straight over the old surface?
Only where the old stucco is sound, clean and firmly attached, and even then a new finish is a surface treatment. Loose or hollow areas have to come off first. Spreading new plaster over failing stucco usually fails with it.
Will you need to go into the attic?
Only if there is safe access and the chimney passes through it. The attic can show stains or damp sheathing that explain the outside damage. If you prefer we stay outside, tell us, and we note that the attic was not checked.
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Chimney & Fireplace Brands We Work With
DuraVent 
Olympia Chimney and Venting 
Copperfield Chimney Supply 
Rutland 
Heatilator 
Heat & Glo