Direct Applied: There is a great affinity between stucco and concrete block because they are very similar in composition. For this reason it is not unusual to apply stucco in a direct application to concrete block. The concrete should be straight, true and free of any residual dirt or laitance that can compromise the bond. A direct application to painted block is not recommended. Masonry joints should be flush to the face of the block and not struck. A Three-coat - Direct Applied application includes a +-1/4" scratch coat, a +-1/4" brown coat and +-1/8" of cementitious finish. If an acrylic finish is substituted in lieu of cementitious, the combined thickness of the scratch and brown coats should equal +-5/8".