Repairing Pebble-Dash Stucco

Maybe your old house has stucco with the rough, pebbly finish that’s often referred to as “pebble-dash.” Or maybe it’s the variation accurately termed “roughcast.” The difference lies in the aggregate (pebbles) and the method of application. True pebble-dash requires that the wall be finish-coated with fresh stucco while pebbles are literally thrown (dashed) onto the wet surface, where, with any luck, they’ll stick. Most pebble-dash finishes use sharper gravel to aid in the binding process. Roughcast, on the other hand, is a bit easier for the homeowner to achieve. Either sharp gravel or pebbles may be used since the aggregate material is added to the wet stucco topcoat during the mixing. Once applied, the thin surface slurry can be removed with a soft sponge, or even by using a misting spray from a hose.

- Ray Tschoepe

HARD WAY

NOVICE PEBBLE-DASHING