How long does German schmear last?

• <div><p>German schmear is a durable brick masonry coating. It should last at least a decade or two without flaking or fading, even with minimal maintenance. This makes it an economical option compared to the <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/cost-paint-house-exterior.htm">cost of painting your house exterior</a>, which usually needs to be repainted every five to 10 years to keep it looking its best—thus costing more over the same time period.</p></div>

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Q: Can you use CLR (calcium, lime, & rust remover) on stucco?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s not advisable to use CLR on stucco. CLR is a powerful acidic cleaner designed for removing tough mineral stains. Stucco is a porous material commonly made of cement, lime, and sand. The acidic nature of CLR can potentially damage or etch the stucco surface, leading to discoloration or deterioration. </p><p>It is best to use cleaning solutions specifically formulated for stucco or mild household cleaners mixed with water to clean stucco siding. Always test any cleaning product in a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire stucco surface.</p></div>

Q: What size drill bit should I use for stucco?

• <div><p>You can use small bits that are up to 3/8 inch in diameter, or larger bits that are 1/2 inch or more in diameter. Make sure the bits you use are coated with carbide or diamond; this information is usually visible on the package. You can also use hole saw bits to drill into stucco.</p></div>

Q: How long should stucco dry before painting?

• <div><p>Stucco will dry in two to three days, but you should wait one to two months to allow it to cure fully before you paint it. The curing process is slow, but leaving the material exposed to air and natural moisture will help it reach its maximum strength. If you live in a hot, arid climate, wait a month before painting. Wait two months before painting if you live in a more moderate or wet climate.</p></div>

Q: How much does it cost to replace the top of a chimney?

• <div><p>The <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-chimney-crown-repair-cost.htm">cost to replace the chimney crown</a> or top is about <b>$1,550 </b>on average. The range varies widely depending on the size of the chimney, the materials used, accessibility, and the extent of the damage. If you suspect a problem with your chimney top, call a professional masonry contractor for an inspection. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Stucco Service pros in Ferndale, CA

*The Angi rating for Stucco Service companies in Ferndale, CA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Stucco Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Stucco Service companies in Ferndale, CA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Stucco Service needs.

Last update on March 29, 2026

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Ocean Seven Builders

4.6(

)

Serving Ferndale, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 1994

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"The kitchen remodel with Ocean Seven Builders went smoother than we thought it would. Ron stayed involved throughout the process and kept us updated on progress. The quality of the cabinets and flooring is excellent, and the installation looks very precise. Overall, it was a solid experience with a good end result!"

Recommended by59%of homeowners

Serving Ferndale, CA and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Josh is amazing! He was very helpful and skillful. We had many things that needed to be installed/repaired. He completed everything that we asked in a professional manner.
"

Recommended by96%of homeowners

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Mega Power Electric, Inc

5.0(

191

)

Serving Ferndale, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 2000

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Mega Power Electric is an excellent company to work with. Gary and his team are knowledgeable, honest, and will go out of their way to get the job done right. We installed panels and solar battery storage unit in our home and we're reaping the benefits of being clean and green."

+32

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Hampton Enterprise LLC

3.7(

)

Serving Ferndale, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 1989

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"I only use James when I need some work done to my house. He responds fast, gets the work done quicker than just about anyone else I've ever used and seems very concerned with leaving his customers happy."

Recommended by60%of homeowners

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Stucco questions, answered by experts

German schmear is a durable brick masonry coating. It should last at least a decade or two without flaking or fading, even with minimal maintenance. This makes it an economical option compared to the cost of painting your house exterior, which usually needs to be repainted every five to 10 years to keep it looking its best—thus costing more over the same time period.

It’s not advisable to use CLR on stucco. CLR is a powerful acidic cleaner designed for removing tough mineral stains. Stucco is a porous material commonly made of cement, lime, and sand. The acidic nature of CLR can potentially damage or etch the stucco surface, leading to discoloration or deterioration.

It is best to use cleaning solutions specifically formulated for stucco or mild household cleaners mixed with water to clean stucco siding. Always test any cleaning product in a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire stucco surface.

You can use small bits that are up to 3/8 inch in diameter, or larger bits that are 1/2 inch or more in diameter. Make sure the bits you use are coated with carbide or diamond; this information is usually visible on the package. You can also use hole saw bits to drill into stucco.

Stucco will dry in two to three days, but you should wait one to two months to allow it to cure fully before you paint it. The curing process is slow, but leaving the material exposed to air and natural moisture will help it reach its maximum strength. If you live in a hot, arid climate, wait a month before painting. Wait two months before painting if you live in a more moderate or wet climate.

The cost to replace the chimney crown or top is about $1,550 on average. The range varies widely depending on the size of the chimney, the materials used, accessibility, and the extent of the damage. If you suspect a problem with your chimney top, call a professional masonry contractor for an inspection.

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