Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 10/20/2010

Question
Hi, I'm building an outdoor kitchen with metal tracks and studs. The side have a 1/4 inch backer board and the top has 1/2 inch backer board, which will be covered by tile. I want to stucco the sides. Can I apply thin set to the sides and apply single coat stucco to that instead of black paper, lather and three coat stucco? Also I'm using rounded metal beads for the corners-- what can I do to ensure the stucco stays stuck to the corners-- or should I just not stucco the corner and paint over it? Also, would you recommend use of acrylic instead?--thanks

Answer
Hi Jack, in this instance you should use paper backed lathe and stucco over that with 3 coats stucco.  You will need to do this just to make your corners work anyhow.  And unless you want to texture the corners the beads are normally just painted. I hope this information helps, please feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com