When I wrote an article “Ten Things Architects Should Have in Their Specifications,” it created controversy. I proposed architects ask plastering contractors to provide a square foot price in advance of starting a project for the application of fiberglass mesh to cement basecoats (what is often referred to as a “crack suppression system” or “lamina.”) My reasoning was that at many pre-installation meetings for projects, the subject of cracking in stucco occasionally comes up. While no contractor can guarantee a crack-free cement plaster, the option to apply the lamina comes very close.
The process is applying a skim coat of polymer-enriched cement with a fiberglass mesh troweled in over the set brown coat. This mesh and base provides a strong, flexible and still vapor permeable layer over the cement plaster. This method is recognized by virtually every plaster bureau as the premium method to minimize crack issues. However, it is not standard and does cost money, and contractors should be fairly compensated when directed to apply the lamina. The application of the lamina can be the entire building or limited to specific walls.