Stucco/foundation question

[JOhnH]

When I bought my house about 5 years ago, the inspector pointed out that the stucco went down below the dirt level. I don't know if it started that way or if the previous owner built up the dirt around the house and covered it with mulch.

I am finally starting to dig up the dirt/mulch around the foundation and replace it with decorative marble chips. But without proper knowledge of such things, I'm not sure if this is a good approach or how deep I should go.

I'm looking for suggestions.

 

[Matthew]

You probably want the bottom of the stucco, and any siding, above ground. Keeps termites from having such an easy access. Also prevents moisture from wicking up and gives any moisture behind the siding a place to go.

 

[Cap'n Jack]

You probably want the bottom of the stucco, and any siding, above ground. Keeps termites from having such an easy access. Also prevents moisture from wicking up and gives any moisture behind the siding a place to go.

After doing the above, make sure water still flows away from the foundation.

 

[JOhnH]

I'm thinking I'll need to bring out an expert of some variety. The stucco goes a good 4 inches or more below dirt level. In order to leave the stucco above the ground I'd have to dig a trench around the house, which would probably turn into a moat during heavy rains.

 

[Sac Arrow]

Where is the top of slab in relation to the outside grade? Two scenarios:

1. TOS is 8 or more inches above grade. Dig a trench, and saw cut the stucco to 4-6 inches above grade. Seal the cut.

2. Outside grade is at or only a couple inches above TOS. Someone backfilled against the house. That will require re-grading to get the grade 4-6 inches below the slab.

 

[timwinters]

Is it really stucco (applied directly to the substrate) or is it EIFS?

huge difference in what you need to do.

if it's stucco direct applied over concrete or concrete block then likely no worries.

if it's EIFS then it could be big problems.

 

[luvflyin]

I'm thinking I'll need to bring out an expert of some variety. The stucco goes a good 4 inches or more below dirt level. In order to leave the stucco above the ground I'd have to dig a trench around the house, which would probably turn into a moat during heavy rains.

Cut the stucco at the appropriate height and install a weep screed. This is about replacing a weep screed but it’s the same as just installing one where one didn’t already exist. I’ve done it, it works.
https://homesteady.com/12556112/how-to-replace-a-stucco-weep-screed

 

[JOhnH]

Is it really stucco (applied directly to the substrate) or is it EIFS?

huge difference in what you need to do.

I believe it is stucco applied to concrete block. I haven't noticed any layers when I had to penetrate it. Once to remove a failed hose bid. Another time to remove and replace a loose wall anchor under a covered porch.

if it's stucco direct applied over concrete or concrete block then no worries.

Hope its that.
if it's EIFS then it could be big problems.[/QUOTE]
but with my luck . . .

I guess I'll be calling a stucco guy soon.

 

[luvflyin]

I believe it is stucco applied to concrete block. I haven't noticed any layers when I had to penetrate it. Once to remove a failed hose bid. Another time to remove and replace a loose wall anchor under a covered porch.

Is the concrete block a foundation with wood framing above? Or does concrete block continue up as the wall?

 

[Brad W]

you can prob tell easy which it is. EFIS would have a jmold or extruded trim sortof boxing in the bottom edge of the stucco finish. It should have weep holes in the bottom so water that gets behind can run out...and that's the prob with it being below grade.
Google "efis bottom edge" and you'll easily find images

traditional stucco is basically just concrete smeared onto structure....which in your case is probably just the concrete foundation.

My house for example is efis, but there are some areas where the foundation walls extend up a bit and they have the more traditional stucco finish to match the efis finish...and that does in fact go down to or below grade

 

[denverpilot]

Post a photo for the folks here who know what it looks like.

Might save a trip by the stucco guy.