Florida Stucco Construction Defects
Defects In Your Stucco? Contact Our Construction Law Attorney
Stucco construction is a common practice in Florida, but it can be prone to defects that become evident over time. Because of Florida’s hot and humid climate, stucco walls and other structures are more susceptible to moisture penetration, cracking, and deterioration. Defects in stucco construction can lead to costly repairs for Florida residents, so it’s important to understand how to prevent these issues.
If you're a Florida resident who has experienced stucco construction defects in your home, it's important to speak with an experienced Florida construction lawyer as soon as possible. At Herman & Wells, our team of Florida construction lawyers are knowledgeable about all areas of Florida construction law and can help assess the situation and advise on the best course of action. Call us today to schedule a consultation.
Why Are Stucco Defects A Big Problem In Florida?
Stucco construction defects are a major problem in Florida. Florida's humid climate and heavy rainfall can cause stucco systems to fail due to water intrusion, leading to mold growth, structural damage, and other serious issues. This is why Florida has such stringent building codes for stucco construction projects—to ensure that all structures are built to the highest standards and to protect Florida residents from potential damage or injury.
Common Stucco Construction Defects In Florida
Understanding the most common defects associated with stucco construction can help Florida homeowners identify when something may need to be repaired or replaced.
Moisture Intrusion
This occurs when moisture from outside sources such as rain, snow, and humidity seep into the stucco, causing damage to its structure. Moisture that seeps into stucco can cause cracks, blisters, and other forms of deterioration. Some early signs of moisture intrusion include staining on the walls and discoloration of the stucco.
Poorly sealed windows and doors are common sources of moisture intrusion. To prevent this, ensure that all openings to the outdoors are properly sealed with caulk or weather-stripping. If moisture intrusion is left unaddressed, it can lead to mold growth, which is a serious health hazard.
Signs Of Cracking In Your Stucco
Cracking is one of the most common defects associated with stucco construction in Florida. This can be caused by a number of factors, including improper installation, lack of proper ventilation and insulation, and moisture intrusion.
Signs of cracking in stucco construction in Florida typically include visible cracks along stucco walls, ceilings, and other structures. Cracks can range from small hairline fractures to large gaps.
Stucco cracking left unrepaired can all lead to significant damage that can be difficult and costly to fix. That’s why it’s important to identify stucco construction defects in Florida early and address them as soon as possible.
Improper Installation
Stucco installation requires specific materials, techniques and skills. Improper installation can cause stucco to crack and experience other forms of deterioration. Common signs of improper installation include gaps between the stucco and windows or doors, uneven surfaces, bubbling, and large cracks.
When stucco construction defects are not addressed quickly, Florida homeowners may experience various consequences. These could include damage to the property as well as health risks to the occupants.
Poorly Designed Flashings
Flashings are metal, plastic, or rubber strips used to protect window and door openings from moisture damage. Poorly designed flashings can cause water to build up in wall cavities, leading to mold growth and other issues. To identify potential flashing problems, look for signs of staining around windows and doors.
When water builds up in wall cavities due to inadequate flashing design, it can cause mold growth which can be a serious health hazard. Florida homeowners should ensure that all window and door flashings are properly designed to avoid potential problems down the line.
Improper Drainage
Proper drainage is essential for stucco construction in Florida. When water does not drain away from the building, it can begin to accumulate around the foundation and cause damage. Signs of improper drainage include pooling water around the foundation, a musty smell, or visible mold growth. Stucco construction defects in Florida can cause significant damage to property if not addressed promptly.
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Prevention Of Stucco Construction Defects In Florida
To ensure your Florida stucco project doesn’t suffer from any defects, it’s important to consider the following:
Importance Of Hiring A Licensed And Insured Contractor
It’s important that your Florida stucco contractor is licensed and insured. Having a license means the contractor has completed the necessary training and is qualified to complete stucco construction without any problems. It also means they are accountable for their work, so if something goes wrong, you can hold them responsible. Additionally, having insurance helps protect you from any liability if something were to go wrong.
Importance Of Obtaining A Comprehensive Stucco Inspection
A comprehensive stucco inspection can help identify any potential defects or issues before they become a costly problem. This means that you’ll have the opportunity to address them proactively, instead of after-the-fact when it’s too late. It’s highly recommended that all Florida stucco projects undergo an inspection prior to beginning any construction.
Importance Of Proper Maintenance
Regular maintenance of Florida stucco is key in preventing potential defects. This means pressure washing, sandblasting, caulking, and patching any cracks or damage as soon as it’s noticed. By taking these proactive measures you can ensure your Florida stucco project withstands the test of time!
How To Address Stucco Construction Defects In Florida
If you’ve already discovered stucco construction defects on your property in Florida, it’s important to take immediate action. Contact a licensed Florida stucco contractor who can assess the damage and repair or replace any damaged components.
Additionally, contact your Florida stucco manufacturer to determine if they are willing to cover the cost of repairs due to manufacturer defects. Lastly, if the stucco contractor is at fault for the defect, you may be able to pursue legal action with a Florida construction lawyer.
Contacting A Construction Lawyer
If you’re unable to resolve stucco construction defects on your Florida property and believe the contractor is at fault, it’s important that you contact a Florida construction lawyer. A Florida construction lawyer will provide their expert opinion and can assist with filing any necessary legal documents to pursue justice for your case.
When Florida stucco construction defects arise, it’s important to have legal representation. Florida construction litigation can be a complex process that requires an in-depth understanding of Florida state laws, which is why an experienced Florida construction lawyer is essential.
Filing A Claim With The Contractor's Insurance Company
If the Florida stucco contractor is insured, you may be eligible to file a claim with their insurance company in order to collect damages for your Florida stucco construction defects. It’s important that you contact the contractor’s insurer as soon as possible and provide them with all of the necessary documents and evidence related to your Florida stucco construction defects.
The insurance company will then investigate your claim and determine if the Florida stucco contractor is at fault for the defects. If they find that the contractor is indeed at fault, they will provide you with a settlement offer to cover the cost of repairs.
Arbitration Or Mediation
Arbitration is a legal process in which a neutral third-party, called an arbitrator, hears the arguments of both parties and renders a decision as to who should be held liable for stucco construction defects on Florida property.
Mediation is similar to arbitration, but instead of a third-party rendering the decision they help facilitate an agreement between the parties.
Both arbitration and mediation can be used to resolve Florida stucco construction defect disputes without having to go through the lengthy process of Florida construction litigation. It’s important that you have a Florida construction lawyer present during this process as they can help ensure that you get the best possible outcome for your Florida stucco construction defect dispute.
Book A Consultation With An Experienced Construction Law Attorney
Stucco construction defect disputes can be tricky to navigate. Florida state laws, insurance policies, and contracts must all be taken into consideration when filing a claim or pursuing legal action. For this reason, it’s important that Florida property owners contact an experienced Florida construction lawyer if they are dealing with stucco construction defects on their Florida property.
At Herman & Wells, our Florida construction lawyers are dedicated to helping Florida property owners resolve stucco construction defects. With over 20 years of experience in Florida construction litigation, we’re here to help you get the justice you deserve. If you are dealing with stucco construction defects on your Florida property and have questions or need legal advice, book a free consultation with one of our Florida construction lawyers by calling (727) 821-3195 today!