Decomposed Granite Against Stucco: Grade Clearance Rules

New DG installed to top of foundation, right at stucco base. Fear: water intrusion. Proper soil-to-stucco height?

Code Minimum: 6–9 Inches

• Synthetic stucco (foam-backed): 9" clearance.
• Traditional stucco (cement on masonry): 6" minimum, but 9" better.

Why 9 Inches?

Allows 3" for future mulch buildup + 6" permanent clearance. Mulch always accumulates.

Fix

Scrape DG back 9" from wall. Slope 2% away. Install perforated drain at foundation if wet area.

Cheap insurance vs. stucco repair.