Crafting with Concrete

All things about crafting with concrete. Concrete is a versatile material that can be used in many different ways.

Hand holding a rusty trowel on a stucco surface

Diagnosing ‘Soft’ Stucco: Simple Probing Tests to Separate Surface Erosion From Lath Failure

Introduction Diagnosing soft stucco means using simple probing to tell if the issue is surface erosion or actual lath failure. This hands-on approach helps you identify trouble without tearing the whole wall apart. You’ll base any next steps on what the probe reveals about attachment and depth. Start with gentle, vertical and horizontal probing at […]

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Close-up of rough stucco dash finish texture surface

Stucco Texture Blending 101: How to Hide a Patch in Sand Float, Dash, and Lace Finishes

Introduction Stucco texture blending is the art of disguising a repair by matching texture and sheen under common finishes like sand float, dash, and lace. Treat the patch as a small project inside the bigger wall, plan to feather edges and adjust trowel pressure. Start by inspecting the surrounding texture and choosing a blending technique

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Exterior stucco wall with fresh dark patch above basement window

DIY Stucco Patch Color Matching: Making Test Tiles and Accounting for Cure Darkening

Introduction DIY stucco patch color matching means creating small test tiles to compare color before applying a patch, then adjust for curing changes. You’ll mix a small batch, apply it to a sample board or patch, and let it cure in the same conditions as the repair. Compare the dried tile to nearby surfaces and

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Angle grinder resting on concrete block outdoors