WestCon Tribune

October 2007

OCTOBER MEETING

Stucco:

Performance Expectations

Presented By: Don Pilz, Aquatech Consultancy

Cement plaster ("stucco") has been a staple cladding for hundreds of years. The standard building paper, lath, and plaster is still very much a part of today's construction.  Up until recently, little has changed in the traditional stucco assembly.  However, energy efficient building envelopes have put a greater performance expectation on stucco assemblies.  The results of these expectations have proven disastrous for the stucco industry. These failed systems have led to water infiltration, mold, deterioration of framing members, and a good source of revenue for the construction defects industry.

Stucco assemblies can perform at the needed expectation level of today's energy efficient building, with careful detailing to the most sensitive areas that are prone to water infiltration. However, the stucco industry is currently in a metamorphosis with engineer/design firms creating details that look good on paper, but are almost impossible to build in a field condition.

In our October meeting presentation, Westcon member Don Pilz will explain how stucco accessories can be used as flashing to divert water away from sensitive areas. He will also explain the problems of over-detailing and offer simple solutions which can produce the same effect.

Don Pilz, currently working with Aquatech Consultancy, Inc., has accumulated over 19 years experience in EIFS and lath/plaster systems in the construction industry. In his capacity as a consultant Don identifies problem areas and offers direction for resolution. As a foreman in the field, he personally installed and supervised all types of EIFS and Stucco systems available in Northern California. Working alongside designers, architects, and developers, Don has created an ideal balance between function and design while maintaining watertight systems.

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