Wood Stair Stucco Problem

These wood stairs look like they where built after they finished
the stucco. The main problem here is the wood touching the
stucco will absorb moisture and begin rotting the wood. The
problem gets worst if the ends of the wood treads and risers are
not painted.
This problem could have been prevented with a 1/2
inch space in between the wood and the stucco. This will allow
air to circulate between the wood and the stucco allowing the
moisture to evaporate faster.

