Weep screed installation methods

[Ken Larson]

This is new construction of a 3 layer stucco wall. Weep screed is very poorly installed at some areas of the exterior where gaps up to 1" were noted between the foundation wall and the metal screed.

I don't usually inspect stucco homes as they are few and far between here in my area. What is the proper way to write up what appears to be a very sloppy job on this installation.

[Jerry Peck]

This is new construction of a 3 layer stucco wall. Weep screed is very poorly installed at some areas of the exterior where gaps up to 1" were noted between the foundation wall and the metal screed.

I don't usually inspect stucco homes as they are few and far between here in my area. What is the proper way to write up what appears to be a very sloppy job on this installation.


First question: That is stucco on block first floor and stucco on frame second floor, or are both frame?

"What is the proper way to write up what appears to be a very sloppy job on this installation."

Just about like you did.

The stucco is not keyed into the holes (no, the holes are NOT for drainage so the stucco will NOT be blocking the drainage).

Looks like the weep screeds are incorrectly installed, but most definitely "poorly installed" as you said.

All those gaps need to have stucco accessories in them covering the gaps, or something installed to keep the rain and critters out.

Weep screed penetrations not properly flashed, if flashed at all.

Most like not correct around the windows and doors either.

With that poor (lack of) embedment of the stucco into the weep screed, there is likely poor scratch coat keying into the metal lath and block if masonry first story. Probably missing drainage plane too.

[Ken Larson]

This is a one story home on a large sloped lot with a huge 12' concrete foundation wall. The stucco is over a framed wall. The foundation is bare painted concrete.

[Richard Stanley]

Ditto Jerry
I might write it like this.
"This is new construction of a 3 layer stucco wall. Weep screed is very poorly installed at some areas of the exterior where gaps up to 1" were noted between the foundation wall and the metal screed."
Trust yourself.

[Jerry Peck]

Just pointing out that it is called "3 coat", not "3 layer". stucco: "scratch coat", "brown coat", "finish coat".

The scratch coat is just that, it is scratched into the substrate, be that solid masonry or lath, so that the stucco mechanically keyes into the substrate. The scratch coat is intentionally left quite rough to help with the keying in of the brown coast.

The brown coat adds bulk, strength, and protective qualities, such as protecting the lath, and is applied over the scratch coat.

The final coat is typically not very thick, its purpose is to cover the brown coat and add the finish look and texture desired. It also finishes building out the thickness to meet minimum thickness and strength.

[Stephen Meyer]

How do you know it is three coat from your inspection. You should get the details of the portland mix and whether it is field mixed as well. If it is new construction, should have those records and bid specs.

[Jerry Peck]

How do you know it is three coat from your inspection.


Because if it is on frame (not on solid masonry substrate) it is supposed to be 3 coat stucco.