Stucco Repair | Burbank, CA | Stucco, Plastering & EIFS

Stucco is a long-lasting material that provides excellent insulation for homes, which is particularly beneficial in areas like Burbank, CA, where hot summers and mild winters require energy-efficient solutions. The exterior finish of a stucco home is typically three to four millimeters thick, helping to keep the house cool without excessive energy use while also reducing noise transmission, ideal for homes located near busy streets like Magnolia Boulevard or Olive Avenue. Additionally, stucco dampens outdoor sounds such as traffic or nearby airport noise from the Bob Hope Airport. However, stucco does have some drawbacks—it can be brittle and prone to cracking or shifting, which can be a concern in earthquake-prone regions like Southern California.

Before applying stucco in a city like Burbank, where air quality and pollutants may be an issue, the wall must be thoroughly cleaned with water and detergent to remove any dirt or debris that might affect adhesion. Once clean, the walls should be properly prepped to ensure the stucco bonds well. After the application process, the stucco restores the wall’s original profile and durability, providing lasting protection from the elements Burbank homes frequently face, such as heat and wind.

A critical part of the stucco system is the lath material. Traditionally, lath was made from wooden strips installed horizontally to support the plaster. Today, lath is typically installed over a moisture-resistant barrier like paper or felt to protect the framing from water damage, which is essential for areas like Burbank that occasionally experience heavy rains. This method, known as “open-loop stucco,” helps prevent moisture from seeping into the masonry.

Because of its aesthetic appeal, stucco has been widely used on both commercial and residential buildings in Burbank, blending well with the city’s mix of modern and traditional architecture. Early examples of stucco construction often mimicked European architectural styles, which influenced many homes in the surrounding Los Angeles area. Notably, Benjamin Henry Latrobe, appointed by Thomas Jefferson in 1803 as the Surveyor of Public Buildings, oversaw the creation of several iconic stucco buildings, including St. John’s Church in Washington, D.C., and the marbleized stucco finish on Arlington House during the 1840s.

Traditionally, stucco is applied in multiple layers. The first layer, known as the “scratch coat” or “brown coat,” is followed by a finishing layer. A roughened base coat, often created with a wooden float and nails, provides a key for the final finish. The final texture of the stucco finish is applied once the base layers have set, resulting in a durable, attractive surface—a common sight in many Burbank neighborhoods where the Mediterranean style is prevalent.

Stucco offers several key advantages for Burbank residents, such as absorbing moisture from the ground and helping maintain stable indoor temperatures during the city’s hot summer months. While stucco is not entirely waterproof, it can be applied over masonry to shield buildings from harsh weather conditions, making homes more energy-efficient. Its weather resistance and durability make stucco a popular choice for both homes and commercial buildings in Burbank.

In addition to its resilience, stucco is also breathable, allowing water vapor to escape through small pores. This quality helps protect against moisture build-up, although stucco is not the best choice for very wet or high-impact environments. However, in most climates—like the relatively dry climate of Burbank—stucco remains an attractive and flexible option for homeowners looking for a material that can withstand the elements while adding value and visual appeal to their property.

Before applying stucco, the wall must be cleaned and prepared to receive the material. This process ensures proper adhesion, which is particularly important in areas like Burbank where air quality may affect exterior finishes. Once the walls are cleaned and prepped, the stucco application can restore the wall to its original profile and ensure long-lasting performance.

The lath material on the wall is another important part of stucco. Traditionally, it was made of strips of wood installed horizontally to support the wet plaster. When applied to the exterior of a Burbank home, modern lath is typically installed over a moisture-resistant barrier like paper or felt to protect the framing from moisture. This process, referred to as open-loop stucco, is essential in preventing moisture from seeping into the masonry, particularly in homes located in lower-lying areas of the city that might be more prone to occasional water pooling during heavy rains.

Because stucco is such an attractive material, it is widely used in commercial and residential buildings throughout Burbank. The city’s unique blend of old-world charm and modern infrastructure has made stucco a popular choice, particularly in areas like the Media District and Magnolia Park. Early examples of stucco buildings imitated European styles, and even today, the influence of Mediterranean and Spanish-style architecture can be seen throughout Burbank.

Stucco is traditionally applied as part of a multi-layer process. The first coat, known as the brown or scratch coat, is applied before the second. After this, the final layer is applied, creating a durable and aesthetically pleasing surface. The first coat is often roughened with a wooden float or nails to provide a strong key for the final layer.

Stucco has several advantages, particularly in climates like Burbank’s. It helps to absorb moisture from the ground and draws it away from the building, while also helping to maintain a steady indoor temperature during the city’s hot summers and mild winters. While stucco is not entirely waterproof, it can be applied over masonry to protect buildings from extreme weather conditions and is a great way to make a home more energy-efficient.

In addition to its weather resistance, stucco is also highly durable. Its flexibility allows it to withstand a range of climates, making it an attractive option for homes throughout Burbank. While it is not resistant to extreme cold, it can handle rain and heat well, making it a reliable choice for properties in this region. Its combination of durability and aesthetic appeal makes stucco a top choice for many homeowners looking to improve the value and longevity of their homes in Burbank.