I noticed these stains on the exterior wall during a home inspection. Could someone help me figure out what might have caused them?
it appears that water intrusion at the window would be the culprit…
1 Like
Maybe a window ac unit was there previously?
Stucco sills are just plain flat without dripedge or slope. It’s causing the dirty water to run down on the wall.
Can you post a better picture of the area above the upper right window?
1 Like
Stucco or EIFS?
Moisture intrusion into stucco or EIFS.
Dark stains likely microbial growth combined with mixed material degradation.
You take any moisture readings? It was just below the window. Open the window and lean out.
I will take a picture tomorrow and send it to you
sound reasonable
let me get some test and better picture tomorrow
Thank you！
My guess is stucco on wood frame construction. I would be looking on the inteiror for signs of water seepage, stains, rot, etc.
3 Likes
Thank you bro
I will look into these👍
I’m pretty hard on things like that… definitely mention the possibility of concealed damage. Water intrusion with EIFS/Stucco can be pretty bad.
3 Likes
Hello,
I would take this case seriously too
How would you recommend dealing with and repairing this type of issue?
Thank you
Ok
I will take a better one tomorrow
Dave Fetty CMI via InterNACHI®️ Forum <notifications@internachi.discoursemail.com> 于 2025年3月22日周六 下午5:36写道：
As home inspectors, we don’t have to worry about “dealing with it” or how to repair it. We simply identify it as an issue and defer it out to a specialist.
Here’s what I would write (along with pictures identifying the areas). Short and simple. This is one of those situations where an expert should be brought in. There will likely need to be some probing done to determine the extent of the damage.
Areas of discoloration were observed on the stucco wallcovering.
Stucco surface discoloration, staining, or mold growth can be a sign of underlying moisture issues.
Recommendation: Consult with a qualified stucco contractor for further evaluation of the identified areas.
2 Likes
Thank you so much!
1 Like
Thanks, Zhibo.
Truly, not enough information buddy.
Tile roof? Poorly flashed is my opinion.
Looks like EIFS, and not hard coat stucco.
I take it you did not measure for moisture inside or outside?
Too bad.
It is my opinion, it appears moisture infiltrated at the lower window casings.
For one there is no capillary break allowing water to back up under the lower window casing. If there is a breech between the lower window casing and wall, water can be absorbed into the EIFS assembly. The dark black stains can be moisture related issues, algae, or fungal growth, requiring prompt attention by a licensed professional, to prevent further damage and potential interior health problems.
Refer to a licensed EIFS installation and service repair contractor for further analyses and repairs.
Act upon any recommendations therein.
Thank you very much！