DIY Synthetic Stucco

DIY Synthetic Stucco

• 1

  Applying synthetic stucco means that you have to put several layers onto your structure. First, use your staple gun to tack the weather-resistant paper to the surface you're planning to stucco. The paper protects the surface in case the stucco cracks and rain gets through.

• 2

  Again using the staple gun, apply the stucco mesh over the paper. You can either cut the mesh to fit the wall or you can secure it and cut it to fit afterward. Don't skimp on staples, either---the more fixed the mesh is to the wall, the less likely the finish will be to buckle away from the wall.

• 3

  In the bucket, combine the base layer with the amount of water specified by the label. Pay close attention to the mixing---if you don't, the base could be too thin, which would make it useless and runny.

• 4

  Apply the base to the mesh with the rake and trowel. Make this layer roughly a half-inch thick and try to lay it down as evenly as possible. Allow this to dry overnight.

• 5

  When the base is completely dry, drag the rake over it to add texture. The scoring gives the stucco finish layer something to bind to. At this point, you will also need to put on some stucco bonding agent---which will give the stucco finish an even better adherence to the wall.

• 6

  Mix the finish layer in the bucket and apply it to the wall with the rake and trowel. Make this layer a little thinner than the base layer; maybe about a quarter-inch thick. Allow to dry.