Smooth stucco

Smooth stucco.
Stucco fine sand finish.
Make heavy stucco smooth.
Can you change heavy stucco to smooth stucco? Of course, you can. • Make rough stucco smooth
Send pictures to Jay or myself at our sites below for immediate bids.
www.StuccoPlas... Kirk’s website.
www.GiordanoPl... Jason’s Website.
Hello, my friends. I'm sharing some application tips to smooth out your rough stucco finish or texture in this video by applying a La Habra color coat, 20/30 sand finish.
I don't advise Santa Barbara or marble smooth stucco finishes for reasons in this video.
However, because I won't apply them, many will; there's nothing wrong with that.
Why will two smooth coats of any exterior stucco finish usually crack? But, of course, I'm talking about 30/30 sand troweled smooth.
They are applied with Portland cement finish stucco.
Thus, when steel is trowled, the new stucco finish can't breathe.
Now, bring on the winter rains; this water saturates them, and they expand when dried, shrink, and, Voila, cracks.
If you apply fiberglass mesh netting to the entire home, the stucco finish may take still hairline or get spider-checking with the first rain or damp weather.
What will also happen if you hydrate a new stucco color finish too soon?
The color can bleed, bleach, or discolor.
For example, most can understand what pouring Clorox on blue jeans would look like. So, don't hydrate stucco color coats too soon! Especially if they are dark colors.
Hydration is essential to achieving durable stucco. It is the principal mechanism for converting Portland cement into a solid binder.
Hydrating or moist curing of stucco achieves two things: long-term strength development and improved substrate conditions for the application of exterior finishes.
Call my buddy and master stucco craftsman Jake or Jeremiah Johnson for work in the surrounding areas of Vacaville. Jake's number is 707 660-1422.
• Repair bad stucco patc... Stucco maintenance -free color retexturing.
• Stucco Resurfacing Integrated stucco color finishes. Moss
• Apply a skip trowel te... Spreading a Skip trowel texture with the base coat.

[@zojairam]

You are the king of stucco 🤴 I really appreciate your videos and dedication 💙

[@StuccoPlastering]

Good morning Zojairam, thank you, sweetie, it's always a pleasure to get a compliment from a beautiful lady, happy holidays. 🥂

[@croniky]

I'm just a fam of kirk now, learning how to stucco is a bonus

[@StuccoPlastering]

Hello Croniky, thank you for the loyalty, if you want to really understand stucco, you come to the right place, Cheers😎

[@anthonyalvarado6465]

Kirk is a God amongst us mortals!

[@StuccoPlastering]

Evening Anthony, l wouldn't go that far, brother, but thank you.😏

[@ernestoruiz3464]

Kirk is OG.... you can just tell... his son as well.. they do amazing work and have incredible technique

[@StuccoPlastering]

Exzackory Ernesto, we love what we do is the key.😉 Granted, if I hit the lotto, we all be at a warm beach hanging out with ladies wearing something close to nothing, but a man's got to keep the bills paid until then.

[@jwardcomo]

I live in Michigan, where it was 60 yesterday and below 32 today. My smooth stucco 1929 Tudor was constantly cracking. I always thought it was from vapor coming from inside the house. Sure wish we had you and You-tube 40 years ago when we sided the house.

[@StuccoPlastering]

Hello and good morning my friend, You make my point! However on a house that age, time has also allowed it to settle, thus cracks. My daughter just got to Michigan for her two year government job as a marine biologist. Ann Arbor, area, cheers,😉🍻

[@gizmobently]

I have been watching Kirk for 10 years now and thoroughly enjoy his videos and the man himself. I only wish I lived closer so that I could have this man do both the interior and exterior of a house for me. I like how he works and he takes pride in doing a good job and making his customers happy. Kirk, love ya man! My only wish is that you would show and explain exactly what type of material and mix you use for every job you that you do. Thanks.

[@StuccoPlastering]

Thank you, often in the discription we do include the materials we are using, in this one we are applying a La Habra color finish to smooth out the exsisting skip trowel finish

[@bmlsb]

Here in Santa Barbara, it's pretty standard now on all smooth SBMF, or any integral color finish, to use Merlex BASEX crack system, residential and commercial.

[@StuccoPlastering]

If your basecoat is your user name, no doubt no problems, BMI is pure strength.🍾

[@OmarOmar-vu2xu]

Absolutely the best sir.

[@StuccoPlastering]

Omar Omar Dude, thank you, thank you.😉

[@disparky]

Your channel is gold to a new homeowner. Thank you!

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy sparky dude, we try to keep it that way. You and all others can depend on us for accurate or sound advice.😉

[@chrisbayley6917]

As usual Kirk a brilliant video did have a little chuckle to myself when you told your friend about what you thought of him I think you took it in good spirit keep up the great work Kirk and family

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Chris, I'm not aware of thinking, let alone saying anything negative about my buddy, Jake Johnson. Besides, he is one of those cage fighters on the side. I cant be insulting men who fight for sport. Besides, I may need my teeth for chewing food.🍻

[@johnknightiii1351]

What a great finish.

[@StuccoPlastering]

Good afternoon John, thank you. Kirk

[@keithkench9432]

wish it was that warm here in England, as allways an interesting video kirk, thank you and a merry crimbo to you and the family.

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Keith, I hear it only warm in England in the Pubs with brick fireplace, you warm up and have a pint, can't beat that.🍻

[@19993gt]

Thank you once again plaster master!

[@Bigthingz12]

Kirk is tha best

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Frank, I would go that far but thank you, here's wishing a happy holiday season to you and yours. 🍻

[@marievina5593]

Great job KIrk❗

[@Kyle_Schaff]

Never thought I’d click on a video with three “Stucco”s in the title, but here I am enjoying every minute of it

[@StuccoPlastering]

Good evening Kyle, three stucco's in the title, Opps. I didn't even realize that Boo Boo. Thanks for pointing that goofy stuff out to me. Sometime's I'm tired and brain dead when I tag these, I think it's the beginning of sometimers, sometimes I screw stuff up, sometimes I don't.😉

[@Kyle_Schaff]

@@StuccoPlastering Don’t sweat it at all! I thought it was amusing and charming. Keep up the great work, Kirk!

[@StuccoPlastering]

@@Kyle_Schaff Cool beans, Daddieo.

[@gladiator22666]

Hello Kirk ... Just a quick line to thank you for all your video uploads throughout the year ......very informative and very funny stories 👍 Merry Christmas to you and your family, best wishes for 2022 👍

[@StuccoPlastering]

Hello Gladiator Dude, thank you, and a very happy holiday season to you and yours.😉

[@TCLeahy]

Thank you for the video! Very helpful as we contemplate getting rid of the nasty rough finish on our house. Only thing it’s good for is hanging fake spiderwebs at Halloween!

[@StuccoPlastering]

It's also good as a dust purifier as all the dust hangs to it.👨🏼‍🎨

[@bryonbahr3883]

really appreciate you taking time to do this, I live in FL. on Amelia Island and stucco repair is my largest money maker by far. I started doing drywall finishing and guess I have the "eye", I see things most do not. All this being said : Thank you sir. I have no idea how you keep up filming and even using accelerators , I know the skill level and I'm not there yet lol. Bryon M Bahr.

[@StuccoPlastering]

Bryon M Bahr, thank you for the kind words, the way I have been able to continue to apply and film is that my son Jason, sometimes works with me and knows how to film and upload as I'm a stucco dude not a film guy.👨‍🏫

[@sherry1418]

Hi I am looking for some one to do repair stucco work in queens ny please help

[@daleirish6682]

I recently moved to New Mexico where all the houses are stucco. I hope i can find someone like you in my area when I need stucco repair!

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Irish Dude in Mexico, there is a lot of talent in Mexico, I have witnessed this many times. You will be fine.😉

[@daleirish6682]

@@StuccoPlastering I certainly hope so! I am in the process of buying a 2001 era house that's not in bad shape but coming from Upstate Northern NY we had siding more than stucco so its all new to me!

[@RedandAprilOff-Grid]

We are changing to metal siding on our house build, but your videos are still interesting, and I still need to finish plastering the garden wall. It's not easy. 😊👍

[@StuccoPlastering]

Hello Red and April, to some, it is, to others it's not, the key is, practice or you can hire it out to a fella like me who thinks, damn, they are paying me to work out, what a country.🍺

[@cosanostra7112]

kirk you are talent on loan by god . we are in northern new york i want to do our carriage house bottom only . we did our own work for years and ran a restaurant . im going to watch all your vids and thumb up . thankyou sir

[@andrewkoastephens210]

What a hoot! I subscribed years ago and I just now realised y’all are out of Alameda. I worked for a GC and as a handyman in Oakland and Berkeley for 20 years. Good to know, I can refer people to the best if they ask.

[@StuccoPlastering]

Evening Andrew, why not just refer them to us. 😉

[@andrewkoastephens210]

@@StuccoPlastering Nice attempt at dodging a compliment, but you guys are who I am talking about!

[@PeterAgostiniJdcap26]

Merry Christmas Kirk and family and a happy new year 🎊 🙏🏻

[@johnkay6639]

It was real cool watching you guys spread that finish caot .. Your very fast .LOOKs great. Thanks for the info .. My 1800 sq ft house is all steel troweled finiosh coat .. Cracks every where . Im doing that 40 by 4 ish foot long patch with 20 -40 white silica sand finsh coat mix . Thanks for the great video .. Specially sharing about floating with DRY FLOAT . My patch is at the bottom of a wall .. So iu can blend it in so it kinda matches the steel trowl texture thats above the patch And know i can hydrate it as soon as it dry enough cuz its white .. You are a life saver .. I can afford to hire a contractor lol

[@StuccoPlastering]

Thank you, and best wishes.

[@cornerstonecontractingserv5161]

Thanks you sir , your a wealth of knowledge, I have made good progress in my practice because of you.

[@StuccoPlastering]

Thank you, my friend, always happy to share the knowledge, as ole kirk won't be around forever.🍻

[@gypsydildopunks7083]

You're the best, baby!!!

[@StuccoPlastering]

Cool beans, daddieo.😏

[@anthunnad5570]

Great videos. Great lesson as well. Thank you Sir

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Ant hunter, you are welcome. 💃

[@vgslife9640]

Great video, i want this done to my house, i like the smooth finish way better

[@StuccoPlastering]

Hello my friend, find a Stucco company then explain this is what you want.

[@EdgarTheEagle]

Always a blast to hear you Kirk! The house in the end looks as Contempo as it can be! Although still can come up with a rule of thumb when applying smooth stucco finishes over existing stucco surfaces. I always thought that pressure cleaning and applying a bonding agent is required to all existing stucco conditions, I guess that in some cases is not ideal to do that. How to come up with the proper wording or specs in a set of construction drawings so the contractors are aware of what we want?...how to know when to pressure clean and apply bonding agent and when not to? Anyway love your videos and your beautiful work and family!!! Keep it up!....as I always say, you are one of a kind!

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Edgar the Eagle, correctomundo my friend, Jason, didn't include us pressure washing. The area where I put the samples was still a bitch to get off even with 4,000 psi, I could have called him and told him to add it in, but that would have taken at least two more days before I could upload it again. The blue stuff we applied is the best bonding agent sold in the USA. So, once again, "your rule of thumb" is spot on the money. Thank you for the comment and your cool words.😎

[@T.E.P..]

KIrk and Jay!!! found you guys again from a new account ... Happy New Year!

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Thor, glad to have you back brother, happy new year.🍾

[@laszlovass7326]

Rain gutters. Nice new finish needs the dirty roof water kept off and mud splashing up. Nice work.

[@StuccoPlastering]

Good morning Laszlo, thank you, my friend.😏

[@charliegodinez9655]

Wish you could come down to San Diego Kirk. I want to do exactly this to my house over my old stucco.

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Charlie, San Diego is sho-nuff pretty enough to work at. 🍻 But a long drive for us.

[@Lawiah0]

Hey Kirk, I've watched all Eight-Hundred-Ninety-Two (892) of your videos at least three times (3) and I have three issues (3) I'd like to bring up: ... 1) you talk about how it was raining or just about to rain or how it could rain and your hurrying; Now, everyone knows, "it never rains in southern California." ... 2) you talk about how it's COLD today, and in months like December you even wear a Santa Claus hat on your head; Now, everyone knows California always has perfect weather, in fact I have been to San Diego on Four (4) different occasions, during the months of May and June and with each trip, I'd exit the plane, go outside and sit on that wooden bench, all day, until about Eight PM (8pm), then get back on the Plane and fly home; With each trip I arrived to find perfect Weather!! ... 3) you incessantly talk about lounging in your pool with a Big Congo Trowel; now Kirk, some of us go through life with very small Trowels, however, to compensate I've found buying bright red Ferrari Jackets and Ball Caps, can get you a lot of attention, especially when driving around the Suburbs in a 1976 Corvette Convertible Stingray. One time (1) I drove twelve hours (12) to our Nations Capital, Washington DC, when I got there it was about midnight I had missed the Capital building by about Three Miles (3) to the north, but the women there were so impressed by my Hat, Jacket and Car that several of them walked right up to me and said something like, "Hey sweetie, would you like to go for a ride?" At which point, I held up my wedding band and said, "sorry baby, I'm married and drove back home." ... I hope these three issues (3) do not annoy you, and remember what my wife says, "it an't no big dill."

[@StuccoPlastering]

Evening "Spank me Very Much Dude, LOL, I sho-nuff like your style. The world needs more humor, always. Here's your double-edge sword. I always like that song but after listening to the words, now love it. Cool beans, Daddieo. kzbin.info/www/bejne/kInOnGlrhcl-r68/ 💃🏻🍻

[@meradu2]

Love to c u working 👍 nice work

[@carlbremer5576]

Mornin congo hawk man. 505383. So cal style. Never ever again any trowel down mission jobs. But will use "one pass rapidset" with a breadpan and putty knife for painter prep stuff. Its sandable. Down south we dash float jobs for uniformity of color and texture. The rare times i get a gang of guys to drop walls may be the exception. Merry Christmas Kirk and fam.

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Carl, my fellow plasterer, there are many ways to skin a cat. Thank you, and may you have a happy holiday season. 😉

[@adamr4115]

👍 Merry Christmas Kirk

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Adam, thank you, and a happy holiday season to you and yours also. 😉

[@bryanlloyd1099]

Thanks for another great video!!

[@StuccoPlastering]

Good morning Bryan, thank you, brother. 😉

[@herbmorales516]

Good job Kirk.

[@StuccoPlastering]

Thank you, Herb.

[@19993gt]

Lol I was 22 years old when I saw my first scooper at Thompson’s lol . I thought everyone made them outta buckets 😂😂

[@Very_very_video]

It’s always better to do your own you can choose any size

[@adamwise1790]

I’m learning how to finish drywall with a hawk and 12 inch trowel it’s definitely a learning curve

[@StuccoPlastering]

Things that make you go, Hmmmm.

[@adamwise1790]

I bought a new wider stainless steel trowel but my carbon steel trowel still does a better finish!

[@StuccoPlastering]

@@adamwise1790 Howdy Adam, The Trowel of Mine and why I chose it, The video below explains my preferred choice of trowel for interior plastering or exterior stucco work. Remember a perfect radius is great for concrete finishing only, but horrible for plastering inside plastering or outside stucco work. Can a concrete towel be used? Yes, but not as effectively as the trowel in this video. Personally, I can plaster with my shoe, but you guys, don’t try that. kzbin.info/www/bejne/jpC2g6yKfruAmLc/

[@adamwise1790]

Thanks that video answered my question. I’ve learned to finish with a12 by 5 trowel and I’m getting better. I’ve never used my 14 or 16 inch trowel yet.

[@adamwise1790]

I’ve learned to leave liftoffs not lines or tool marks.

[@johnnyluck128]

Good video

[@StuccoPlastering]

Hello Johnny Luck dude, thank you.😉

[@alfonsoperez8535]

Kirk one idea you should really start a school of finishers... make them kirk certified that way we will know they work is worth it. And we can hire them in our town... i bet all of us your fans will appreciate it since dont live in california.... just an idea

[@michaelbaker9746]

thank you

[@dormindont1]

Хорошая и аккуратная работа 👍

[@StuccoPlastering]

Hello Dormindont, Thank you, brother. 👍🏼

[@Goggleberry123]

Do you ever do a standard wood float finish . I'm interested, I'm from England iv been plastering 38 years we never do a steel trowel finish as it throws the light to much making the wall look very uneven. I watch your vids all the time was just wondering .

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Pyramid Dude, yea stell troweling sucks for too many reasons to mention here, I'll let the youngsters learn the lessons of that finish, as I already been there and did that. As far as using a wood float, I find the finish is no different from using hard plastic, hard rubber, or what is also called a polyurethane float. I for one cannot tell the difference. Actually, one of my dancing leather-based shoe also give the same finish but takes more effort. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gH2YYX5_qsmdd5Y/ kzbin.info/www/bejne/m2LZgYaLfK6pbZY/

[@ABZD019]

Hey Kirk, I miss the 25 years I've lived in Cali, but it's nice to see that plaster look again in your videos. Around here everything is lap siding. I was wondering if you've ever done any kind of plaster over a straw bale structure?

[@StuccoPlastering]

Hello friend, I did three straw bale homes, they require a lot of stucco. But are sort of fun and interested to do. Happy holidays.

[@ABZD019]

@@StuccoPlastering I've been trying to find any past videos of yours showing plastering over straw bales. I wasn't able to find any, but it'd be great if the opportunity ever comes up to see how you do it specifically with the commercial products you use, compared to earth clay so many other people seem to use. And happy holidays to you and yours as well!

[@Mines619]

Hi Kirk, thanks for all of your videos. I’ve been watching/learning from you and am going to attempt to tackle a color coat with a friend when it cools down in San Diego. I have some questions for you: 1) I’m planning to use a brush and soapy water with my 1600 PSI power washer to prep my walls. Will that work or should I rent something 3000-4000 PSI? My old color coat is spider cracked in the sunny areas and some sheets have already come off. I scraped it off one entire wall already. 2) If I want to do 20/30 sand finish over an old 16/20 sand finish, can I do it in one coat or should I try to skim one day and do the finish the next? I’m planning to use La Habra Crystal White.

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Mines from your words of, some areas sheets are coming off, forget about soap and water rent a gas pressure washer. Yes, you can go over a heavy texture 16/20 with a medium texture 20/30, best wishes brother, You have done your homework well.😏

[@mericanwit]

Yup gonna watch this vid and then proceed to go on and save the world😝

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy my friend, at least give it your bests shot.🤔

[@user-ht4vg7eg5f]

Do you have a referral for the Whittier CA area? I need to smooth coat the house.

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Bruce, I recommend you google “Plastering contractors” in your area. This may help you decide. This search may also bring up “yelp” Theirs is a paid subscription, so their reviews may be more biased than Google's; however, you can scroll and read through the Yelp reviews. Hopefully, with the help of both reviews apps, you will find the best fit for your needs. If you’re still unsure, ask to view their completed jobs or repairs and, if possible, speak directly with their past clients. 🥳

[@CaliforniaLifeJourneys]

@@StuccoPlastering how about in San Diego CA, Kirk? very informative video!

[@taz104]

Stucco over painted stucco: I understand to pressure wash, but then you paint the weld crete over the entire area?

[@StuccoPlastering]

Exzackory, you can use Quikrete bonding agent, It's sold at all HD and lowes and almost every hardware store in the country, Why? It works well. No guesswork.😉

[@2skulls415]

Hey Kirk I’m being watching your vids for years. Great stuff. I’m in the process of doing the same thing to my house in Oakland. If you applied the fiber mesh anti cracking system. Can you then use the Santa Barbra finish??????thx

[@StuccoPlastering]

Of course, you can, To explain why stucco cracks would take me at least an hour. Type in why stucco cracks, some of the videos where I discuss this in detail will appear.🍾

[@scienceguy3912]

I am happy you put out this video. I am needing to do this to my house which has a pretty textured pebble dash and visible areas that I've repaired. Just wanted to clarify what products you are using. I was under the impression that finish coats were only supposed to be 1/16" thick and needed to fill in the texture before a finish coat could be applied. So there is no additional brown coat required? As far as the suction, my painted surface has been slightly chipped away after pressure washing in some areas (exposing some old oyster shells). Should I not apply bonding agent to the old painted surface? Just the damaged areas? Thanks for your help. (Also, thanks to your videos the repairs to my stucco turned out great, just brushing up my skills and knowledge before I start on the final steps. )

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Science Dude, the thickness of the stucco finish depends on what one has to work with. If it's a really thick finish, I'd suggest the finish coat of 16/20. If it's a think basecoat, then perhaps it might need a base skim coat first. The bottom line is all stucco finishes can be smoothed out. Bonding agents are always an excellent idea.😉

[@Guardducks]

You guys🤘🏼.

[@StuccoPlastering]

Evening Guard Duck Dude, thank you, 👍🏼

[@19993gt]

Even with a crack prevention system? I still mesh and poly bond a house before I do a smooth finish. It still cracks tho! Lol I hope it’s less.

[@samuelbankston2108]

In lousiana that stuff cracks like crazy. I mean it takes a few years but yeah it cracks all over

[@StuccoPlastering]

Hello Samuel, exzackory. 🍻

[@zafarjoiya]

Nice

[@Jenn-777]

Doing stucco so what is the closest I can get to Santa Barbara without the cracking? What do I buy?

[@StuccoPlastering]

Evening Jenn, google, "plastering yards near me" such as westside. cheers.🕵🏼

[@fangfangouyang]

Thanks for sharing. We just have a plaster contractor apply a skim coat to our entire exterior stucco to change the previous texture. They are coming back to do a texture with the color of acrylic material. How long do you recommend waiting between the two processes? We are located in San Francisco.

[@mr.wizeguy8995]

Bonging agent sound like character from 007 movies :)

[@StuccoPlastering]

Hello Wiseguy Dude, LOL, that's Bond, James Bond. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mGKYXoNnZ8x8nJI/

[@runinguy]

Let the plaster cure until there's no free moisture and fingertips leave only slight impressions (usually within a few hours, but totally depends on environmental factors and initial moisture content of mix), then float with a grout sponge. Different moisture content in the sponge and different pressure gives different result. Can give the smoothest floated finish I've seen.

[@StuccoPlastering]

Hello Running Guy Dude, and fellow plasterer, there are many ways to skin a cat.🍻

[@zkkauffm9140]

If you waited a few hours you would be screwed , I work in Utah and shit sets up in 10 - 30 min. Less if it’s hot out.

[@runinguy]

@@zkkauffm9140 where I'm at (northern NM) it can set up in 10 min too... or it can take a few hours on a cold cloudy day with wet mix on a wet wall in the shade. And the point is to float it at just the right time when it's starting to set, much more set than I've seen in any of Kirk's videos. And as Kirk mentioned, it's just another way.

[@dietmarstahl8888]

What if you put one layer and then plastic grid and do the smooth steel trowel finish? Will it still crack?

[@StuccoPlastering]

There are ways to make it smooth, but at a cost; most folks would throw me off their property if I suggested it. One way is to skim first and embed the mesh, then cover it, allow it to set then apply a color coat finish. This is costly and can't guarantee no cracking. In fact, there's no system that can guarantee no cracking as this is not within an applicator's hand, but instead nature's hand. Like, say, the last 4 to 5 months of rain in California at the start of 2013, this rain cracked more cement concrete and stucco homes than an earthquake. I actually documented this fact to prove a point. 👨🏻‍🔬

[@dietmarstahl8888]

@@StuccoPlastering ok yes I see this finished cracking everywhere. Is there maybe a flex paint that can be used to fill the cracks?

[@StuccoPlastering]

@@dietmarstahl8888Howdy, In light of a deeper knowledge, You may know enough to think you’re right, but not enough to know you’re wrong. 👨🏻‍🔬

[@dietmarstahl8888]

​​​@@StuccoPlastering just an idea you are definitely the pro. Could you sand down a standard finish to smooth it out or would that also crack? kzbin.info/www/bejne/gJitg5ekYs-LqMU

[@StuccoPlastering]

You, my friend, have a good imagination. Cracking's not the end of the world; it just means the ground is expanding due to rain; it's no big deal. I say plaster both coats as normal, give the home at least a month to settle and hydrate it often, then apply a smooth trowel finish, It may or may not crack. 👨🏻‍🔬

[@philindeblanc]

For getting a smooth look on existing....Why not just use a vacuumed 7" diamond honing wheel on a grinder tool and make it smooth, and it would also be able to breathe? But for smooth, I thought the heavy blend of poly and fibers used keep things from cracking. Also, what if you could line the wall with a metal mesh of 1.2" squares that would eat about a 1/4" to1/2" of the poly-stucco, I bet that could be a way to prevent cracking. But as a stucco guy such as yourself, I can see avoiding such things to do what you do best...While you also have to , to some degree, stay on the wave of what people want. I watch almost all your videos Kirk!!! I am not even a stucco installer, or contractor... but on my "new" home, my painted stucco is pretty bad and I am thinking it maybe something I can do myself, to do a EVEN level, plane, horizontal ,smoother (maybe 20/30 is the way to go:-) overlay on the existing, as I have wall washer lights, and it casts shadows of EXTREME dips and craters and all sorts of imperfections on some of the wall(I think the guy who did it musta been drunk! seriously).

[@StuccoPlastering]

Good morning Phil, an interesting concept, one that many have pondered. Stucco should not be ground off if one does this, that releases into the air Silica and lye, both toxic. This toxic dust lies everywhere, including many of the surrounding homes in the yards roofs, and such, just waiting for a dog, cat, human to walk through it and allow it to become airborne, where are greedy little lungs devour it, It comes in but does not leave. Sort of like luggage. You keep it forever. Not good. On your house, pressure wash it well, apply a bonding agent, and color coat it. We removed from this video our pressure washing plus a lot more as that info would have made the video way too long. We didn't want to bore everyone, I know, too late.😏 In the description, there is a video where the wording says, "gab," which was next door to my brother's house. It may interest you. Cheers.🍻

[@philindeblanc]

@@StuccoPlastering For grinding off, you use a wet method and NOTHING will be airborne. :-)

[@StuccoPlastering]

@@philindeblanc Howdy Phil, I have seen people who have used a grinder before. In fact, it's in one of our videos. It's far from pretty, different maybe, but not pretty. You, my friend, have a wonderful imagination, like myself. Cheers. 🍻

[@alansabrosky3244]

When using a concrete adhesive that you apply to the wall before hand do you still need to saturate the wall with water? In the video you are applying the new stuff on a dry wall. Thank you

[@StuccoPlastering]

Sometimes we do if the weather is 90 degrees or above and the wall gets too hot. It's definitely necessary even over a bonding agent, the water won't wash off the bonding agent, but five minutes of total drenching will bring a wall back to being workable.👨🏻‍🔬

[@donaldbrown716]

Kirk you ever do ultra text by dryvit fake brick two coats first white with the tape line then a red coat and pull the tape it looks just like real red brick 🧱 when you pull the tape

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Donald, no, I have not tried that, but I would like to. I take it you have done this. Heres as close as I get to making fake bricks, kzbin.info/www/bejne/imbOcmmBmct0e5o/ 🍻

[@AntonioRodriguez-dx5wq]

No need to apply poly bond or CI BASE after the Weld Crete exterior glue? For my Restuccos I always pressure wash, apply exterior glue, poly bond with fiber mesh then the finish. Is thre no need for the 2 extra steps?

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Antonio, the fiberglass mesh with Poly- Bond is for a worst-case scenario, of a home that has structural issues, and is not necessary for the average home. I've only gone that route once in all my years in the stucco trade. 😉

[@rustymckenzie6252]

That whole law doesn't have one expansion joint in it , I would have put several expansion joints horizontal and vertical to alleviate any kind of cracks

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy rusty, if I had stuccoed the home 40 years ago, I may have to, no I would not have, not a wall needed it. We just upgraded the finish.

[@mybleachhouse]

Did you say you put 4 coats of bonding agent on the new stucco and one on the existing painted? Why is the suction so off kilter between the two.

[@StuccoPlastering]

Hello Bleach blond, excellent question. With a technical answer. The existing stucco had been painted several times. Thus it was sealed well. Our new stucco was highly porous due to the hydraulic accelerated stucco I chose. Thus it took 3 to 4 thick coats to kill that severe suction. It depended on which stucco we applied that determined how many bonding agents coats were necessary to achieve the same suction level. This is important but would be too confusing for most to understand. If I took the ten minutes to explain this complicated stuff in this video, I would bore the crap out of everyone. I know, too late. 😉

[@edbarreras7572]

Is it generally easier (and cheaper!) to apply new stucco over an existing product than to start from scratch, since you only need the bonding agent and a single coat to apply over the old stucco?

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Ed, you make my point. 😉

[@brandontyree2230]

Sucks the window company couldn’t take the Milgard stickers off the windows before they left. - Glass guy Love your videos! What do you recommend for home owners looking to do retrofit windows with a flange that seals to the exterior frame of the old window, that have stucco cracks at the corners of the existing window? Also what causes that cracking? I have my own theories but I am interested in your answer, thanks!

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Brandon, no theories here, just the facts, Vibrations, crack all stucco walls. Windows opening and closing, solid wood doors always have a vertical crack above both corners, grounds settle, traffic cause fluctuation and there are about a hundred other reasons why stucco cracks. I have done at least 5 videos in regards to this normal fact. A crack simply means movement. They are usually harmless although many feel unsightly.🕵🏼

[@flippo880408]

I really appreciate all the info on your chain! Can I apply this technique to synthetic stucco (eifs) with a 1/8" deep structure? If not can you point me in the right direction?

[@StuccoPlastering]

Yes you can!

[@johnnyfeathers2567]

Most times cheaper is not always better. Ill bet that lady wished she would have went with you guys to begin with instead of trying to save a bit..she probably ended up paying double when it was all said and done..lol ..Kirk you and your Wife and kids and all of their families Have a Merry Christmas 🎄🎁..

[@StuccoPlastering]

No doubt Johhny, I have gotten beat up like that myself a few times too. Thank you and happy holidays to you and yours.😉

[@satberhoxhaj3347]

i wish you where in NY

[@Titantitan001]

How often are latex additives used in stucco and would that help cracking in smooth finishes? We use latex a lot when we are doing thinner mud beds (quarry kitchens)

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Zahry, I have personally never added any latex additives to stucco. Maybe you're referring to adding Sika, additive to tile grout, instead of water for a better adhering over glassy surfaces or tiles?🤷‍♂

[@19993gt]

Was your friends house the one with the beautiful view and 3 or 4 different textures? Lol he gifted you a wine? And after you got the hot tub with the misses? lol

[@Irvin_Wright]

Love your videos! Do you or can you recommend a stucco and window company in Modesto? I don't know if you all come out this way.

[@eliascavadas4523]

What are those vents in the base of that wall Kirk? Are they there for rising Dump ?

[@StuccoPlastering]

Hello Elias, Good eye, brother. That is called a weep metal screed, this allows any moisture or rain that enters the stucco to drain out. However this wall has been painted, thus they are now useless as the wall is sealed.👍

[@dellopez4661]

Thank you for the videos ! So it’s possible to apply smooth stucco to old coarse bumpy stucco by just smoothing new stucco on old one with a trout ? Then applying paint ?

[@StuccoPlastering]

Hello Del Lopez, if your going to do it, it can be done with colored stucco. The finish we applied in this video, is not going to be painted as the color is integrated. Its what we in the plastering trade call, "A stucco maintenance-free integrated color finish."😉

[@Coujoe18]

Hey Mr. Kirk. I have been watching your videos for awhile and I also used the same teniques on my job. And I can honestly say it helped me alot!. I'm sorry for bothering you but I want to be a great plaster nd open my own business in the near future. Can you help?

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Akub, the world needs more stucco folks, I'd advise you to go and apply for a contractor's license, and start-up. your own business. Like anything, it's not easy, but determination and climbing the mountain are what life is all about. Cheers. 🍾

[@joebillmoad3436]

Kirk, price the Ford Truck……. Oklahoma interested!

[@wthomas5697]

So are you saying that a santa barbara smooth finish always cracks when it's been hard troweled? Or it cracks when you do it over an old finish because it cracks when applied over bonding agent?

[@StuccoPlastering]

Hi, all smooth or steel-troweled finishes are prone to more than the normal hairline and spider checking for too many reasons to last here.🤔

[@Carlos-hb7xe]

Hello sir I’m trying to apply smooth stucco at my house which currently has rough stucco it’s also painted white. Is it necessary to cover the whole house with weld Crete in order for the new stucco to stay on permanently? I’ll be beyond grateful if your respond. Thank you

[@Carlos-hb7xe]

And do we let the weld Crete dry first?

[@orozcomartin9287]

Like your videos.. Do you have to add something to the new stucco to stick to the old stucco?

[@StuccoPlastering]

Yes sir, the home must be pressure washed well, then we paint on a stucco bonding agent such as Weld-Crete or Quikrete. This procedure allows the new stucco to adhere permanently .

[@AK-tl3xv]

Whats the best way to get a question to ya? Basically i want to remove my foam trim and patch back.

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy AK, here, as Im returning this call or one can call me at [e-mail]. Cheers.

[@jadabandit9212]

Hey Kirk I am going to try this on my home. My question is is that sponge wet for the finish? Never done this before but I am very good with my hands and have no problem messing up. But after watching you for a while I believe I can get it done

[@StuccoPlastering]

The sponge float is kept damp and clean.

[@jadabandit9212]

@StuccoPlastering thank you I appreciate you and your family for taking the time to teach others how to do what you do. I am also from the bay area, Oakland to be exact and I enjoy watching the channel

[@StuccoPlastering]

@@jadabandit9212 excellent

[@thesimplelife33]

So that house was supposed to be hosed down the day after or 7-10 days after application so you don't have a difference in color?

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Tony, close, but no. Color coats can be hydrated or hosed down to add strength to any portland based cementitious stucco finishes. Hosing down color coats too soon will bleed, ghost, or cause color differences. Here's the tricky part, I have not said this in the video or the comments as it may be confusing. What? Too late? Exzackory. Here goes, Chrystle White is the only color that won't ghost, bleed or become discolored as it's white with a white base coat or what we call base 100. I believe I will regret adding this info as it may complicate what I'm trying to point out to folks in this video. I try to be as transparent as possible with words that even my dear old granddad can understand. Still, the deeper one goes into applications and details, the more it can become overwhelming to those without many years of working with stucco. Sorry brother, you asked.😉

[@thesimplelife33]

@@StuccoPlastering Great! No problem, i get the dilema. Thanks for the time for answering my question. Keep up the great work. 👍

[@bwoutchannel6356]

How do you get a side done if your on your own meaning if a guy has to do it all? Mix , spread , move around , everything?

[@StuccoPlastering]

We manage, we're professionals.

[@Miguel.Garcia]

I saw some guys lay wire mesh all over the house when doing steel trowel finish, they said they never get any cracking or spider cracking. They said you get cracking when you don’t lay mesh.

[@StuccoPlastering]

Hi Michael, you are referring to fiberglass mesh netting. I have done some interior plaster ceiling with the three-foot rolls. Innan area. I have yet to find an owner willing to spend the extra cash for this expensive precautionary method.😉

[@anthonyoakes66]

Kirk do you guys have silicone and acrylic renders in the USA? Europe seems to use different types of renders. I'd love to have a go out in the USA

[@StuccoPlastering]

Good evening Anthony, we use a lot of acrylic renders. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aGmWdZaie9Z3rc0/Acrylic/ stucco finish, duck pond, stucco-flex. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mmTWeYVugKlkbMU/Stucco/ stucco acrylic’s for retaining walls. kzbin.info/www/bejne/hHSzYZqDZ8mEjLs/acrylic/ acrylic plastering for flexibility. Happy Holidays. 😉

[@anthonyoakes66]

@@StuccoPlastering cheers kirk ill take a look 🙂

[@edbarreras7572]

If the blue is weld-crete, what bonding agent are you using where there is no blue? Thanks.

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Ed dude, it's there but not always visible, if it's too blue we will get spider checking, another subject. Here is why few plastering contractors have the wisdom and or courage to present this fact.kzbin.info/www/bejne/n5qmaXuLgLGsftU/ 🥳

[@edbarreras7572]

Got it. Thanks! Why don’t you use a 30/30 grade?

[@rockopruden770]

Hey Kirk! Doesn't that soffit shadow leave a burn mark? Or dries different?

[@StuccoPlastering]

Evening Rocko, the color is Chrtal White, it's the only color that does not burn and you can come back and feather it in if necessary.🤙

[@basse.r]

Great video Kirk, as allways! I got one question. Wouldn't it be better to apply that stuff in two coats? Just wondering. Greetings from Germany, Bastian

[@StuccoPlastering]

Hello, my German friend, Basse, that's like asking, it is better to apply two roofing membranes on a roof? I guess you could, but what's the point? Applying a second coat won't make it last any longer or become strong.🤔

[@basse.r]

@@StuccoPlastering I just thought it would be better to apply two coats to smooth out imperfections in the surface. Just an optical aspect. Hope you understand what I mean, my english is not the best. Sorry if I was wrong. Cheers to you Kirk ✌

[@workstuffchannel7894]

What about applying EIFIS over traditional stucco? I'm kinda surprised you don't use EIFIS in your videos.

[@StuccoPlastering]

Hello, Efis would have to go. First, one can't foam pannels to stucco walls. I have had my share with Dry-Vit and stow styrofoam systems. When I worked with the union, we did the Dry-vit over the Kaiser in Hayward and a few more commercial buildings. The styrofoam helped with the weight factor a lot.

[@sndmn2000]

Hey Kirk, been following your videos for a while. Did all my stucco on my house around new windows and it turn out great. My question is, if I were to apply a skim coat 20/30 all over my house, can a big wall be done in multiple days? If I come back the next day and continue where I left off, will there be a crack where the two coats meet? I like the Omega brand stucco. Thanks

[@strikingtiger-filipinomart5043]

When you were talking about leaving off in the middle of the wall when you were stuck going another words doing the third or half of a wall and then coming back the next day to finish it up, What you want to do is wherever you leave off make sure you don’t leave a rough joint make sure you float your joint out so that way it’s easier to blend the next day or when you come back to Stucco. I generally don’t like leaving joints and whenever you can you’re better off finishing up one wall going to corner to corner top to bottom that way you don’t stop in the middle of the wall and leave a joint. The other issue is if you’re using color coat that isn’t going to be painted and he stop in the middle of the wall and come back on another day you’re usually going to have to deal with discoloration along the join area but that can be fixed later on after the stucco has been dried on another day you could come back and fog coat the whole entire wall to even out the stucco color. When your stuccoing always try to keep a wet edge and if you’re going over brown coat especially on a hot day make sure you pre-wet your walls and keep it damp this is also helped the stucco apply more smoothly and it won’t freeze up on you and it’ll be easier to float. When you wet your walls though make sure you don’t leave puddles of water so if it looks real wet and shiny let the suction happen so the wall will be damp but not shiny wet and then add your stucco you could knock it down with your float as you go along and then come back later and float it out with your green float. Are usually like to use a hose for the nozzle as I float it out or if it’s not too hot out I just use a spray bottle and I spray down the stucco and knock it down with my green float as I go. Different plasters have different ways they like to do things but that’s how I do it. To answer your question about the stucco cracking at the joint where you left off, you shouldn’t have any cracking because of that but just make sure to use water when you’re floating out your new stucco to the joint you left out at which is already dry. Learn to use water to your advantage and know when Not to use too much water and not to use too little either. I’ve been a plaster for about 50 years so I know what I’m talking about. Another thing I’d like to do for myself which is personal preference is that I ad Bonder into everything From my scratch coat mix to my brown coat mix to my stucco mix. The bonding agent that only does it make the stucco stronger but it also increases the bond characteristics. Here’s another tip if you’re going to re-stucco over a house that has been painted like some of these houses that were built in the 1930s in the 1950s etc. sometimes when the houses are painted with so many layers of paint, the stucco is so smooth that there’s no tooth to bond to. In other words, there’s not enough sandiness to get a proper bond and when that happens your stucco could pop off in places even if he use Bonder on the substrate and Bonder in the stucco itself. So if an old stucco wall that is gonna be restockco has a lot of layers of paint and the surface is very smooth you need to have it sandblasted and remove the old paint So you could get down to a rougher surface so you have some good tooth to grab onto. Even after sandblasting I recommend spraying Bonder on all the walls before you stucco. This will help even out the highs and lows and you will have even section. Kirk is very knowledgeable no doubt and has been and plastering arena for quite some time. I just like to come in and watch the videos because it kind of relaxes me and it makes me think of many years ago when I was working with my crew and we were doing custom homes and commercial buildings. Sorry I wrote so much stuff but I guess I just had a lot of stuff I wanted to share. Kirk is a good guy and I appreciate the time he took to film and put this video out for others

[@sndmn2000]

@@strikingtiger-filipinomart5043 thank you for the great advice. Ill sure to use the feathering and water to my advantage. Really good insight.

[@strikingtiger-filipinomart5043]

@@sndmn2000 your very welcome! I was a bit tired that night so my apologies for so many typos. I should remember to proof read everything before I send it out.

[@miken7750]

@@strikingtiger-filipinomart5043 very helpful..about to re stucco smooth over old popcorn type stucco

[@lima25tola]

Hi Kirk , No need to sandblast the old stucco ? How durable do you think is the new finish? I heard from some contractors that it tends to fall.

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Lima, sandblasting stucco walls has been illegal, at least in California, for perhaps 30 years? Anyhow, unfortunately, everything eventually deteriorates or fails, including the pyramids. That being said, color coat finishes are known to last hundreds of years. However, if the base coat cracks due to any kind of vibrations, so do these cosmetic finishes. 😉

[@beekeepermariadelgado6806]

That’s what I thought too!

[@donaldlee6760]

Do investors or realtors suggest changing stucco texture so that a house will sell for more money (similar to fresh carpet or new quartz countertops just before a sale), or is this strictly a "homeowner's wish" when homeowners have extra money to spend on their forever home to make it perfect for them?

[@donaldbrown716]

It's all efics here in az saving heating and cooling synthetics dryvit ,sto , synergy etc.

[@donaldlee6760]

@@donaldbrown716 - thanks for taking the time to answer. It makes sense that changing to white stucco will keep the house cooler in a hot climate, however I spoke with several realtors and investors and they always give the same advice about spending extra for energy efficiency in order sell the home for more money or rent the home to a tenant for more. They ask me if a renter would pay more monthly rent if he or she knows there is extra insulation in the walls and attic? My guess is they will have a difficult time understanding the benefit if they are not a math nerd, but if realtors are wrong then it makes sense that a smart seller will add more insulation in the walls and attic or add a solar system just before selling or renting their home. Is this typical in your market?

[@StuccoPlastering]

As a rule, I don't like working for people who let me know they just want to flip a home. I prefer to work for folks who say they want it to be to their likings and when they die, their kids will inherit the home. That's my kind of client. I'm all for folks making cash as we earn it ourselves, but we wont do half ass work for anyone, as our warrenty gets sold also with every house, meaning, we stiil have to do it properly. 🤔

[@donaldlee6760]

@@StuccoPlastering - this attitude is the reason why so many homeowners in the SF Bay area are willing to pay extra to get a better product. If only the majority of trades people had the same attitude as you, however not every trades person actually wants to hold themselves to a higher standard unfortunately.

[@donaldbrown716]

@@StuccoPlastering flipping house mean cheap material and fast work shacking is not good

[@spreadcreekjr1731]

I just put in a window, everything went great except the finish of course. Didn’t look like the existing finish. I floated it with a green sponge and it still didn’t look at “sandy” as the existing. I’m guessing cause the grit was not right

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Spread dude, there are three grits of sand in the stucco industry, fine 30/30, medium 20/30, and heavy 16/20. No doubt you did use the wrong one. Bummer dude. However, figures out the right grit and simply go over the one you just applied.🤔

[@spreadcreekjr1731]

@@StuccoPlastering your the man

[@tacojohns3432]

so if i want to stucco my house that is concrete block, i can just cover it in bonding agent first?

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Taco Dude, after you pressure, wash it, yes.😉

[@tacojohns3432]

@@StuccoPlastering Haha amazing. Thank you for all you guys do!

[@StuccoPlastering]

@@tacojohns3432 No problemo 😉

[@travisk5589]

Will Jake come to Roseville and repair the stucco around 6 window replacements?

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Travis, you would have to call him. He said his phone number in the video, although it was hard to hear. I wrote it in when I uploaded this video. Jake's an excellent and seasoned plasterer, one of the best.😉

[@travisk5589]

@@StuccoPlastering I will call him. Thanks

[@blh3741]

If Jake won't come to Roseville, I can recommend a local guy that just did my house in North Sac. Your welcome to come by and look. One of the Salesmen at Sacramento Stucco Supply in West Sac recommended him and we are not disappointed!

[@StuccoPlastering]

Thank you BLH, please place the fella's name in the comment section, as good plasterers are hard to find. FYI, Sacramento Stucco, I believe is owned by Danny Smith, a man I used to work for, he had over 100 men and over 10 gun crews. In fact, in this video, I was referring to him. I was part of his company, working with his foreman and brother who is one of my mentors and best friends still today, "Fred Smith." Ole Fred and I shared many good times.🍻🍺

[@travisk5589]

Thanks for the info. I have called Danny about a year ago for a different window job and he wasn't interested. I think it was too small of a job

[@EdgarSanchez-nd3pq]

What the price difference to modernize existing stucco compare to redoing it all over ?

[@StuccoPlastering]

Howdy Edgar, fair enough question; with modernizing stucco means applying a new finish over your existing one. Extra installation is a benefit. With redoing it, you remove all your stucco then re-stucco the whole house, I'd say once the dust settles from removing existing stucco on a home of this size, about 90 thousand dollars saved by just a topcoat, plus you wouldn't compromise possibly damaging windows, doors and such.😉