Stucco Warranty Guide: What’s Covered and What’s Not
When investing in new stucco or restuccoing your home, understanding the warranty that comes with the job is critical. At Stucco Champions, we believe in transparency and long-term value — and that includes making sure you know exactly what’s protected by your stucco warranty and what isn’t.
This guide will walk you through common inclusions, exclusions, and tips to ensure your warranty stays valid for years to come.
What Is a Stucco Warranty?
A stucco warranty protects your investment by covering specific workmanship issues or material defects that may arise after installation. Most warranties focus on problems due to installation errors, not structural issues or damage caused by external factors.
At Stucco Champions, we offer a workmanship warranty of up to 10 years, depending on the project type and scope. Our goal is to ensure your stucco performs well and looks great for the long haul.
✅ What’s Covered by Our Stucco Warranty
1. Workmanship Defects
We stand behind the quality of our team’s work. If the finish shows signs of poor craftsmanship or improper application, we’ll fix it. This includes:
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Surface separation due to poor bonding
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Uneven textures caused by troweling errors
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Peeling or delamination from improper substrate prep
2. Cracks from Improper Application
While minor hairline cracks can happen naturally as the home settles, our warranty covers excessive or irregular cracking caused by faulty application techniques.
3. Adhesion Failures
If the stucco coating separates from the wall due to improper surface preparation, that’s our responsibility — and it’s covered under warranty.
❌ What’s Not Covered in a Stucco Warranty
1. Structural Movement or Foundation Shifts
Stucco is not flexible. If your foundation shifts or your home experiences structural movement, cracking is likely — and this falls outside the scope of any stucco warranty.
Common signs include:
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Cracks wider than 1/8”
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Ripped or exposed mesh
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Repeated cracking in the same area
These are usually signs that the home has shifted or been repaired in the past.
2. Water Intrusion from Other Trades
We properly seal around windows, doors, and penetrations during our work. However, if water enters due to roofing, plumbing, or other trades’ poor sealing — that’s not covered.
3. Damage from Improper Maintenance
Your stucco must be maintained properly for the warranty to remain valid. The warranty becomes void if:
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You paint over it with non-breathable paint
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Holes are drilled into the finish (e.g., for signs or mounting hardware)
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Unauthorized contractors alter or repair the surface
4. Weather, Earthquakes, and Natural Disasters
Stucco cannot withstand everything. Extreme weather, flooding, earthquakes, and fire-related damage are not covered under the workmanship warranty.
🛠️ How to Keep Your Stucco Warranty Valid
Homeowners can take proactive steps to protect their stucco and maintain warranty coverage:
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Use breathable, approved paints only (or avoid painting altogether)
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Don’t drill or penetrate the stucco without sealant or permission
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Keep water away from the walls by cleaning gutters and downspouts
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Check for visible cracks after earthquakes or major storms
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Report issues early — small repairs are easier and faster to handle
Large cracks or recurring damage may indicate deeper issues with your foundation. To learn more, visit the California Department of Consumer Affairs – Foundation Problems.
📝 How to Submit a Warranty Claim
If you suspect a warranty issue, here’s how our process works:
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Contact Us – Submit details and photos of the problem.
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Site Evaluation – Our team will inspect the area to determine the cause.
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Next Steps – If it’s covered, we’ll schedule the repair at no cost to you.
We keep things simple and efficient — no runarounds, just real solutions.
🧱 3 Common Stucco Warranty Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
| Mistake | Why It’s a Problem | How to Avoid It |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Painting with Non-Breathable Paint | Traps moisture inside the stucco, causing bubbling, cracking, or peeling — and voids the warranty. | Use only breathable, stucco-compatible paint or ask Stucco Champions before painting. |
| 2. Drilling Into the Stucco | Creates unsealed holes that can lead to water intrusion, delamination, or structural damage — not covered by warranty. | Always seal penetrations properly or consult a professional before mounting anything. |
| 3. Ignoring Early Signs of Damage | Small cracks can grow and lead to larger, non-warranty issues if left unreported. | Inspect regularly and report any concerns early so we can assess and resolve them. |
❓FAQ: Stucco Warranty Questions
How long is your standard stucco warranty?
We offer up to 10 years depending on the project. Most residential jobs receive a 5–7 year warranty.
Can I pressure wash my stucco?
Yes, but use a low-pressure setting and never spray water upward into weep screeds or openings.
Do hairline cracks void my warranty?
No. Hairline cracks (typically under 1/16”) are common and expected. Larger or spreading cracks will be evaluated during an inspection.
What if I painted the stucco and it cracked?
Painting with the wrong product (like non-breathable paint) can trap moisture and void the warranty. Always ask us before painting.
Final Thoughts
Your stucco warranty isn’t just paperwork — it’s your protection plan. At Stucco Champions, we don’t cut corners and we don’t hide behind fine print. Our warranties are built to back real workmanship with real accountability.
Ready to Simplify Your Stucco Work?
Contact Stucco Champions today for a free consultation!
Visit us at Stucco Champions for helpful resources and to learn more about our services.
