Cement Finishing on Foundation

[PaulB]

I have an older 1 1/2 story house, 1950s vintage. There's maybe 2 feet of block below the siding. It was covered with some kind of cement to give it a uniform look but now I notice in a couple places big patches are cracking off. One spot a soccer ball hit it and a section over a foot square just fell off, exposing the block. Is this something I can patch, or does it need expert attention? Does it have to be redone all the way around? Just wondering if anyone has had this happen. Thanks.

[sparcebag]

Paul I've waited to suggest,figured a mason would answer!Back then they stuccoed with no lath.Now if you patch which you can,but other places will fail.So either remove it all which should be easy,and leave it, or if ya want the look back,re stucco but first install metal lath.Patching will be a never ending job,but eventually it will all be replaced and you'll have noticable joints.If it were me I'd strip it and see what it looks like.Maybe some concrete paint?texture?will be your decision.

[BoxMN]

FYI - my 1945 house is doing the same. When I do it, I most likely will strip it all and see how it looks, and maybe do as you say, restucco with lath.