Can I Install wood molding at top of exterior stucco wall…
wrkrwood
| Posted in General Discussion on
I’ve a stucco house that has a 5″ piece of trim that wraps around the tops of all the exterior stucco walls.
I’d like to add a painted wooden cove bead to the bottom of the existing trim, over the stucco. It will only be about 2″ high.
Is using PL on the back of the trim with masonary screws th best way to install the molding? Or is it not good to put wood over stucco?
Many thanks,
ww
Replies
ww
how bout fastening to the existing trim-I'm assuming it runs right below that 5" pc.
edit: Don't forget to paint/seal the back of the trim, or use pvc molding. Moisture migration from contact with the stucco might tend to push the paint off that molding if not properly sealed.
Good idea. I guess I can run some stainless screws into the exisiting molding. What about going into the stucco if I have to? Those blue cement screws then?
Many thanks in advance.
-ww
I wouldn't attach with any fasteners to/through the stucco.
Tapcons I don't think would work-stucco, while cement based I don't think would have enough thickness and grip to be worth the effort. Eventho the wood trim you're going to might be fastened "through" the stucco, they probably anchored to a wood ground above and behind the trim.
Spot dabs of PL Premum behind the new trim your installing might possible grip the stucco good to firm up the install, if you deem it necessary.
I'd use PVC molding like Azek or one of its competitors.
Asking for trouble
I think you are asking for trouble.
Having messed about with my fair share of stucco I am never a fan of trying to fasten to it or through it. Cracks, moisture, et al inevitably become an issue. I am assuming it's real stucco as applied decades ago.
Given that your other postings seem to refer to a very old home with existing wall moisture/drainage issues, I think I might steer clear of anything that compromises the stucco. If a different house... nevermind.
In any case, I second the receommendation to attach the new cove to the existing trim (if possible) and dab a little adhesive here and there to secure the bottoms.
Always remember that stucco is meant to breath and should not be covered lest moisture build up becomes an issue. If the trim you refer to is under a protected eave or you live in a dry climate, then these considerations are lessened to some degree.
Consider carefully how to arrange things so water isn't trapped behind the wood.