Booking an inspection is easy. Knowing what to expect on the day is another matter. Will there be holes in your walls? How long will it take? Do you need to be home? This guide walks through a typical visit for homeowners looking for stucco inspections near me in McKinney and nearby Allen, Frisco, Melissa and Anna.
Key takeaways
- Visual inspections look at the surface; invasive inspections test behind it.
- Probe holes are small and sealed when testing is finished.
- Clearing access to walls and windows speeds things up.
- You will usually get a written report with photos a few days later.
Before the inspector arrives
A little preparation makes the visit smoother:
- Move cars, grills and furniture away from exterior walls.
- Trim back plants or vines covering the stucco, if possible.
- Unlock side gates and secure pets.
- Make a list of anything you have noticed: stains, cracks, leaks or past repairs.
- Have any old inspection reports or repair records handy.
If you are buying the home, the seller or their agent will need to approve access and any probe testing.
Visual or invasive: two kinds of inspection
Visual inspection
The inspector walks every wall, looking at cracks, stains, sealant joints, flashing, the bottom edge of the wall and areas around windows and roof lines. They may use a non-invasive moisture meter on the surface. A visual inspection is quick and leaves no marks, but it can’t fully confirm what is behind the wall.
Invasive inspection
In an invasive inspection, the inspector drills small holes at chosen spots, usually below windows, at roof-to-wall joints and in other high-risk areas. Probes go into the holes to measure moisture in the backing. The inspector can also feel whether the backing is firm or soft. When testing is done, the holes are sealed.
The order of a typical visit
| Step | What happens |
|---|---|
| — | — |
| Arrival and chat | Inspector asks about concerns, age of the home and past repairs |
| Walk-around | Visual review of each wall and photos of concerns |
| Wall type check | Confirms traditional stucco, EIFS or a mix |
| Testing | Surface readings and, if approved, probe tests at chosen spots |
| Sealing | Probe holes sealed with a suitable material |
| Wrap-up | Quick summary of first impressions |
Tip: Walk the house with the inspector for the first few minutes and point out anything you have noticed. Your local knowledge helps them choose the best test spots.
How long does it take?
It depends on the size of the home, the number of test spots and whether probes are used. A small home with a visual check may be quick. A larger home with invasive testing on every side takes longer. Ask for an estimate when you book.
After the visit
The inspector reviews the readings and photos and writes the report. It usually includes drawings of each wall with test locations, a table of readings, labeled photos and recommendations. Take time to read it, and ask questions about anything unclear.
Why McKinney homes deserve a closer look
Many homes in McKinney and other growing Collin County cities have stucco or EIFS exteriors. Hot summers, spring storms and shifting clay soils all put stress on walls and joints over time. Regular inspections help catch issues while they are small. If your home has EIFS, the EIFS Industry Members Association explains how these systems are designed to manage water.
Who should be there on the day
You don’t always need to be home for the whole visit, but being there at the start and end is helpful. At the start, you can share what you have noticed. At the end, the inspector can give you a quick summary and answer questions while the details are fresh. If you are a buyer, your agent may want to attend too.
Choosing stucco inspections near me in McKinney
Look for an inspector who explains the method, shows you the test spots and provides a clear written report. It helps if they also understand repairs, so recommendations are practical.
Mark Daniel Exteriors serves McKinney and the rest of Collin County. Owner Mark Bakewell has more than 20 years of stucco experience and is certified with Dryvit systems for residential and commercial moisture drainage systems. Learn more on our stucco inspections page and our residential stucco page. For our full service area, visit our DFW Metroplex page.
Want a stucco inspection on your McKinney home?
Tell us about the house and any concerns you have noticed.
FAQ
Does Mark Daniel Exteriors offer stucco inspections in McKinney?
Yes. Stucco inspections are a listed service, and McKinney is in the company’s service area.
Does the company inspect EIFS as well as stucco?
EIFS stucco is a listed service, and the owner is certified with Dryvit systems for residential and commercial moisture drainage systems.
What standards does the company follow for drainage systems?
The company states that it works with moisture drainage systems that meet ASTM standards.
People Also Ask
What is EIFS and why does it need a special inspection?
EIFS is a layered wall system with foam insulation under a thin finish. Water behind it can be hard to see from outside, so moisture testing gives a clearer picture than a visual check alone.
What is an invasive stucco inspection?
It is an inspection that uses small drilled holes at chosen spots to measure moisture and check the backing behind the stucco. The holes are sealed afterward.
How long does a whole home inspection take?
It depends on the size of the home and the type of inspection. A stucco inspection with probe tests on every wall takes longer than a visual-only check, so ask for an estimate when booking.