Replies

1. GBA Editor
   Martin Holladay|Jul 09, 2013 03:31pm|#1

   Albert,
   Q. "How does one do stucco?"

   A. Even if I were a skilled stucco installer -- and I'm not, although I stuccoed several new medical clinics that I helped build in Armenia -- I wouldn't attempt to teach a novice the trade in a few paragraphs.

   If you really know as little about the stucco trade as it appears, then you have two choices. You can get a job as a stucco worker's apprentice; after 6 months, you'll know a lot more than you do now. Or you can hire a stucco contractor to finish your foundation. If you are lucky, you'll find a contractor who will train you and give you a few tips.

   There is a third possibility: you will try to pick up a few tips from surfing the internet, and then you will jump right in and try to stucco your foundation. I don't recommend this approach.

2. 
   Albert Reule|Jul 10, 2013 11:30am|#2

   Thanks for your comments, Marin. Are there other options for an exterior finish on this wood basement exterior above grade?

3. GBA Editor
   Martin Holladay|Jul 10, 2013 12:58pm|#3

   Albert,
   Good question. I think that stucco is the most logical choice.

4. 
   Jerry Liebler|Jul 10, 2013 03:26pm|#4

   Albert,
   On the well above grade portion of a wood basement any exterior finish that could be applied to any other wood structure would be suitable. Aluminum siding, vinyl siding, cement board, thin brick, thin stone etc. Within 8" of finished grade and below only materials that are suitable for use below grade should be used. If you use stucco or thin brick or thin stone it is advisable to use stainless mesh and fasteners near and below grade.

5. 
   Albert Reule|Jul 11, 2013 02:39pm|#5

   Thank you. This has been very helpful