Some stucco homes that were built in the early 1990s into early 2000s utilized some construction practices that contributed to potentially damaging moisture intrusion.  There are several factors that attributed to this stucco moisture intrusion:

Improper window installations: 

During the construction boom during the late 1990s and early 2000s, there were many builders that did not use pan flashings when installing the windows and doors.  A pan flashing is a very important component that protects the framing if and when moisture enters through window and door openings.

Missing kickout flashings at rooflines:

A kickout flashing is a relatively small but especially important piece of flashing.  It is installed where a roofline terminates into a wall area.  The “kickout” flashing does exactly what it’s name describes: it kicks the water away from the wall.  If this flashing is missing, moisture can enter a very small hole and cause significant damage in a short time.

Missing (or improperly installed) drip cap flashings:

Drip cap flashing is an important component of any siding installation.  Drip cap flashings are necessary to be installed over windows, doors, and any horizontal trim.  This flashing ensures that water is shed to the outside of the cladding, and helps prevent moisture from entering the walls.

For a typical moisture intrusion project, we are first sent a moisture report from the moisture inspector or homeowner.  Foley Exteriors studies the report and then determines the most appropriate repairs.  Once the repairs begin, we start by removing any necessary stucco or other siding that surround the affected areas.  We assess the necessary repairs.  We ensure that there are proper pan flashings at the openings, flashings over windows and doors, and flashings at the rooflines.  Foley Exteriors then repairs and/or replaces any necessary building materials, including repairs to the framing, insulation, and sheathing.  We then reinstall the stucco or siding to the necessary areas.