Weeping Stucco Buckets

A recurring problem with detailing of stucco cladding occurs with the omission of an important flashing transition at vertical wall to horizontal junctures at soffits, beams, and recessed heads of openings. The problem is the absence of a drip flashing which results in a high potential for water infiltration – leading to building leaks and structural deterioration. The problem condition at stucco covered beams is referred to as a “stucco bucket” and occurs in both wood-framed and light-gage metal framed buildings of low to mid-rise height – the typical residential and light commercial structures found throughout the United States. The stucco configurations of beams, soffits, and recessed openings reviewed are common to this type of building design from the early 1960s and continuing to the present. Examples of detail failures are analyzed and the current stucco application techniques are described; together they cause the repetition of stucco problems. Stucco industry standards with incomplete guidance are discussed. What we believe designers and builders should know is illustrated herein with new details and solutions for effective flashings using available stucco accessories and improved installation techniques.