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The decision to repair or replace stucco depends on the extent of the damage. For minor issues like small cracks, holes, dirt, stains, or discoloration, a repair is typically sufficient and more cost-effective. These issues can often be resolved with a simple repair, a deep clean, and possibly a new coat of paint. However, for more significant problems such as large cracks, peeling, mold, algae, or structural water damage, a replacement might be necessary. In these cases, it is best to call a professional stucco contractor for an inspection. An expert can assess the severity of the damage, determine if there are deeper issues, and advise whether a repair is adequate or if replacing a section or an entire wall is the more cost-effective, long-term solution.

To repair damaged exterior stucco, you’ll first remove all loose and crumbling material from the damaged area. You then need to thoroughly clean the area and dampen it to ensure proper bonding. After that, you’ll apply a bonding agent to the repair area, then apply new stucco in layers, allowing for curing time between each layer. The final coat should be textured to match the surrounding stucco pattern as closely as possible. Once fully cured, the repaired area can be painted to match the rest of the wall if needed.

Several clues suggest that your stucco is damaged or has underlying issues. Visual clues include discoloration, cracks, indentations, broken caulking, or visible mold. If you touch your stucco and feel any soft spots, that could also indicate a problem. If you notice any of these concerns, call in an inspector who can confirm your suspicions and help provide solutions.

The curing time for stucco typically takes several weeks to fully complete. During the curing process, the stucco undergoes a chemical reaction and gradually hardens. It's important to note that curing is different from drying. While the surface of the stucco may dry relatively quickly within a few hours or days, the curing process continues beneath the surface, strengthening and solidifying the stucco. 

It's best to avoid excessive moisture exposure during the curing period, as it can impede the curing process. The exact curing time can vary based on factors such as temperature, humidity, and the specific stucco mixture used.