Are vines on masonry wall OK?

[Steven C. Meyer]

Originally Posted by rray

I haven't seen any vines growing on stucco walls in my neck of the woods, but I have seen many vines growing on lattice work next to stucco walls to provide that effect.

Russell

I am currently visiting in the central valley of Calif., and I do see vines not only on lattice but attaching to stucco. Also experienced that in Wa. State.

Either way, I see it as a conduit for potential WDO problems.

When I lived in Del Mar, cut all the ivey away from the house, as it was finding its way into the walls. A lot of work and round up, kept it a bay.

So, if you inspect a house with vines growing up the side of the house, or vegitation close to the house, do you call it out?

In Wa. state, vegitation close to the house, or touching the house a no.no. considered a conduit for termites or carpenter ants. Most of the houses up there are "wood" sidding, as VS California stucco.

Yet, the house I inheritated from my parents, built in 1941, with all sorts of bushes planted next to the house, the house came out clean as to termites. Was a surprise to me!!

Any thoughts, anyone?

[Joe Funderburk, CMI]

I don't make it a significant issue (don't put it in the summary) but do point it out like so:

"Vines are overgrowing the house walls and although they are attractive they can introduce pests and rodents and accelerate deterioration of the brick and mortar. Therefore, you may wish to consider having them removed."

[Michael R. Boyett]

This 1935/2001 central Texas stucco home last week had ivy growing inside around the windows, you bet I pointed it out: