Installing a one coat stucco weep screed is a critical step in ensuring the durability and effectiveness of a stucco wall system. The weep screed serves as a vital component, allowing water that gets behind the stucco finish and base coats to drain out. This article is a comprehensive guide, written by an experienced professional in stucco installation, to assist both DIY enthusiasts and skilled installers in executing this task with precision and safety.
Tools and Materials
To start, gather the necessary tools and materials:
- Metal cutting shears (M3’s recommended)
- Speed square
- Marking tools (sharpie, razor knife, etc.)
- Staple gun (wide crown 1 1/4″ minimum length) or hammer and nails
- Weep screed
- Measurement and Marking: Measure 1 3/8″ along the front lip of the weep screed and mark. Draw a 45-degree line to the back flange.
- Cutting the Angle: Cut the small front lip straight down, then along the 45-degree line.
- Alignment: Repeat on the opposite end for a mirrored angle, ensuring both pieces align perfectly.
- Marking for Outside Corners: Mark the back flange at 1 3/8″ and draw a 45-degree line in the opposite direction.
- Cutting Process: Follow the marked line, cutting the back flange and the small front lip.
- Completing the Corner: Repeat on the opposite end of another weep screed piece to form a complete outside corner.
- Cutting a Notch: Cut a “V” notch in the new piece for overlap.
- Assembling: Bend the front lip down slightly and slide the new piece over the existing one for a seamless join.
- Starting Point: Begin at an outside corner. Cut the corner as previously described and ensure the bottom of the weep is approximately 1″ below the sheathing for optimal water drainage.
- Securing the Weep Screed: Position the weep screed and either nail or staple it in place at the top corner, focusing on the upper middle area of the weep screed flange.
- Continuing Installation: Secure the opposite end, maintaining a consistent 1″ drop. Follow a nailing or stapling pattern for the entire length.
- Flange: A projecting flat rim or rib on the weep screed, used for strength or attachment.
- Sheathing: A protective covering layer on the building’s exterior wall.
