Monsoon season in New Mexico, which typically runs from mid-June to September, contrasts the state’s arid climate for much of the year. While the rains and thunderstorms that characterize the monsoon bring much-needed moisture, they also create challenges for property owners, especially for homes and properties with stucco exteriors.
Statistically, New Mexico receives an average of 4.83 inches of rain during the monsoon season (based on NOAA data from 1950 to 2010). This period represents the time of year when the state experiences its highest moisture levels.
Stucco, a common exterior material in New Mexico, is generally known for its durability and resistance to the state’s arid conditions. However, its susceptibility to water damage makes stucco risky during the monsoon season.
The main concern is moisture seeping into cracks or gaps in the stucco, which can cause the material to deteriorate over time. This deterioration can manifest in various forms, such as discoloration, crumbling, or structural damage.
To mitigate these risks, proper maintenance and regular inspections of stucco exteriors are crucial. Stucco’s durability makes it a solid choice for New Mexico’s climate. Property owners need to be aware of its susceptibility to water damage during the monsoon season, which requires careful attention to maintenance and preventive measures. By addressing potential issues proactively, homeowners can ensure the longevity and integrity of their stucco exteriors.
How Can Monsoon Season Impact Stucco
Excess water arrives during monsoon season, which can damage stucco buildings. When water seeps into stucco buildings and the moisture gets stuck, there is a risk of mold and damage to the integrity of the property. If you notice cracks around windows and doors, these can be caused by water damage. Crumbling stucco and soft spots are warning signs of severe water damage.
Stucco and Rain
There is a difference between how traditional stucco and synthetic stucco react to rain. Traditional stucco and synthetic stucco have a couple of significant differences in how they are constructed.
Traditional stucco is a building cladding made from lime, sand, and coarse sand using years of traditional technique and mastery. Synthetic stucco is a multi-layered cladding consisting of a water-resistant barrier, a fiberglass mesh layer, a water-resistant base coat, and a finishing coat (color, texture, and protection).
How does traditional stucco react to rain? Its porous exterior makes it permeable, leaving it at risk of water damage. However, with proper installation, the risk of water damage diminishes. Properly installed traditional stucco is designed to release moisture without getting trapped and does not cause harm. It is only when the stucco is not correctly releasing moisture that the damage occurs.
How does synthetic stucco react to rain? If synthetic stucco is not correctly installed, the layers are weak, allowing water to cause deterioration. Water can slip between the surface layers, creating long-term issues. The water leaks into these layers and creates a situation of trapped moisture. Once that moisture is stuck in the layers of your synthetic stucco, the damage to your property begins. Unfortunately, it can take until the damage creates significant havoc for it to be detected. We always recommend having synthetic stucco professionally installed and maintained to avoid moisture trapping.
Monitoring and inspecting your stucco for early water damage detection is essential to avoid excessive water damage. To do so, visually inspect doorways and windows for cracking and discoloration. Look for soft spots throughout the property. If the stucco feels soft or spongy, this is a sign of water damage that needs to be dealt with immediately. Another sign of water damage is a musty smell, signifying mold, and mold stains may even start appearing.
When a professional comes to inspect water damage, the team uses special tools to determine the level of moisture damage accurately.
What To Do If Your Stucco Has Water Damage
If you notice any water damage to the stucco on your property, call Santa Fe Stucco & Roofing for an inspection. Our team will create a solution for the best long-term waterproofing for your property. As always, it is recommended that professionals install new stucco. Proper installation is the first mitigation against water damage during monsoon season. Trying quick at-home fixes will not address the underlying problems, though they may be tempting.
Monsoon season in New Mexico is often tough on stucco, but your property can stay protected with the right materials and professional care. The right products and proper installation are the only way to trust the durability of stucco during monsoon season.
At Santa Fe Stucco & Roofing, we specialize in high-quality materials designed specifically for Santa Fe’s unique climate. Our team of professionals is dedicated to providing outstanding customer service and ensuring your stucco withstands the harshest weather conditions.