How to Create a Stucco Wall

Use a flat trowel to apply a even coat of stucco to your wall.

A stucco wall can be a great-looking finish for an interior or exterior space. Often, pre-mixed stucco is available in a variety of colors to more easily match the decor and style of just about any home. With a steel trowel and a sponge for texture, you can stucco a wall with a level of professionalism. The process is straightforward and relatively quick to accomplish.

Things You'll Need

• Dropcloths
• Wire brush
• Rag
• Bonding liquid
• Paintbrush
• Pre-mixed stucco
• Builder's hawk
• Flat trowel
• Sponge
• Water

Instructions

1. Place dropcloths below the wall to prevent staining the area beneath the wall.

2. Brush off debris, especially on outdoor walls, with the wire brush. Use a rag or scrap of cloth to gently remove dust from interior spaces.

3. Apply a coat of bonding liquid to the wall with a standard-sized paintbrush. Use a bonding liquid appropriate for the surface of the wall. Allow the bonding liquid to dry enough so that it feels tacky to the touch.

4. Transfer your pre-mixed stucco from its container onto a builder's hawk.

5. Hold the hawk in one hand and apply the stucco onto the wall with the flat trowel. Use broad sweeps across the wall for a uniform texture. Flatten the width of the stucco layer to 1/2 inch.

6. Wet the sponge, then squeeze it out so that it is just damp to the touch. Sweep the sponge across the wall after the stucco has dried for 10 minutes. This will help achieve a smooth finish. If you prefer a more textured look, forcefully blot the stucco with the damp sponge. Allow the stucco to cure fully for one week.

References

• "The Old House Handbook: The Essential Guide to Care and Repair;" Roger Hunt; 2008