As the premier stucco contractor serving homeowners in Hackensack, NJ, Bergen County, and Morris County, we at Plaster Pro Stucco Contractors LLC frequently answer questions about stucco maintenance, durability, and the signs of deeper problems.
If you own a home with stucco or EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish System), it’s vital to stay informed. Here are the answers to the five most common questions we hear from North Jersey homeowners:
1. How Often Does Stucco Need Maintenance or Repainting in New Jersey?
A well-installed, traditional stucco system can last 50 years or more with minimal upkeep, but “minimal” doesn’t mean zero. The key to maximizing its lifespan in New Jersey’s weather is proactive maintenance.
- Annual Visual Inspection (DIY): Walk your property yearly, especially after a harsh winter, and look for hairline cracks, water stains, or failing caulk around windows, doors, and trim.
- Repainting/Resealing (Professional): Stucco should typically be repainted and professionally resealed every 5 to 10 years using a breathable, elastomeric paint. This layer is crucial for preventing moisture absorption and protecting the finish coat from the elements. Ignoring this simple step is a primary cause of premature stucco failure.
- Prompt Repair: Never let a crack wider than a credit card sit unrepaired. Water is the number one enemy of any siding system, and even a small crack is a direct pathway to rot and mold.
Plaster Pro Tip: We can perform an annual check-up to spot small issues before they become costly emergencies. Call (201) 750-3590 to schedule your inspection today.
2. Is Mold and Water Damage a Common Problem for Stucco Homes in Bergen County?
Unfortunately, yes, it is. However, this is usually a failure of installation, not the material itself. Industry inspections estimate that a large percentage of stucco homes built in the Northeast have hidden installation defects. Common issues include:
- Missing or improperly layered moisture barriers (paper or house wrap).
- Improper or missing flashing around windows, doors, and rooflines.
- Stucco applied below the foundation grade.
These defects trap water that penetrates the porous surface, leading to wood rot, sheathing damage, and mold growth beneath the stucco. In short, your stucco is only as good as the contractor who installed it.
As experienced stucco contractors, we specialize in identifying these issues. We use proven techniques and modern, drainable systems to ensure your stucco is a moisture-managing defense system, not a sponge.
3. What’s the Difference Between Stucco Repair and Stucco Remediation, and Which One Do I Need?
The distinction between these two services is critical, especially for older homes or those with known moisture issues.
| Service | Goal | When It’s Needed | Cost Implications |
| Stucco Repair | To fix surface-level, cosmetic damage. | Hairline cracks, minor chips, or small, localized patches with no underlying moisture. | Less expensive, typically charged per square foot or as a fixed minor job fee. |
| Stucco Remediation | To fix the root cause of the problem and replace the entire failed system. | Signs of trapped water, moldy smells, widespread cracking/bulging, or structural rot underneath the stucco. | Significantly more expensive, as it requires removing the affected stucco, repairing the damaged structure/sheathing, and installing a new, proper drainage system. |
Plaster Pro Stucco Contractors LLC always starts with a thorough inspection. If we find that the damage goes deeper than the surface—that you have structural rot or widespread moisture—a surface patch (repair) is just a temporary, costly cover-up. Remediation is the only way to genuinely protect your investment long-term.
4. What Are the Red Flags That My Stucco Has a Serious Underlying Issue?
You don’t need a moisture meter to spot these common, serious signs of stucco failure:
- Bulging or Delaminated Stucco: Areas that look or feel “puffy” or are separating from the wall. This almost always indicates structural damage or rusted lath behind the surface.
- Dark Staining or Efflorescence: Dark streaks, often around windows or where two materials meet, can signal water seepage. White, powdery spots (efflorescence) are salt deposits left behind by moisture evaporating from the wall.
- Visible Mold or a Musty Smell Indoors: If you smell mold inside your home, especially near an exterior wall, water has penetrated the system and you need an inspection immediately.
- Windows or Doors That Leak: If you notice water coming in around the frame of an opening, it is highly likely that the flashing was installed incorrectly, allowing water behind the stucco.
5. How Do I Choose a Qualified Stucco Contractor in Bergen or Morris County, NJ?
Stucco is a highly specialized trade. Choosing a general contractor or a vinyl siding company that only “dabbles” in stucco is the fastest way to get a poor installation that will fail.
Use this checklist to find an expert like Plaster Pro Stucco Contractors LLC:
- Verify Licensing and Insurance: The contractor must be fully licensed and carry both liability and worker’s compensation insurance in New Jersey.
- Ask for Stucco-Specific Experience: How many years have they been focusing on stucco/EIFS? A company with deep industry knowledge is essential.
- Inquire About Moisture Management: Ask specifically about their use of proper flashing, weep screeds, and drainage systems, as these are non-negotiable in the NJ climate.
- Review the Warranty: A reputable company stands behind its work. Ensure they offer a clear, written warranty on labor and materials.
When you call Plaster Pro Stucco Contractors LLC, you’re getting a dedicated stucco company with the necessary expertise, years of experience, and track record to correctly install, repair, or remediate your home’s exterior in Bergen County.
Ready to Protect Your Investment?
Whether you’re dealing with a minor crack or are worried about signs of serious water damage, the clock is ticking. Don’t let a small issue turn into a six-figure remediation project.
Contact Plaster Pro Stucco Contractors LLC today to schedule a professional inspection or estimate for your home in Hackensack, NJ, or the surrounding counties.
Call us right now at (201) 750-3590 to speak directly with an expert.