stucco cracking: Advice Sought

[Richard Schmidt <rrschmid@polymail.cpunix.calpoly.edu>]

I would appreciate some insights and advice on cracking of the first
("scratch") coat of stucco applied a week ago to my strawbale
landscape/sound attenuation wall.

The wall is about 7 feet tall, rice bales, covered tightly with stucco
wire. The top is rounded, and capped as follows: wire, stucco, Tyvek,
wire, stucco. In other words, the scratch coat is applied to Tyvek and
wire on the rounded top; on the vertical parts of the wall, the stucco is
applied to straw and wire.

There are many, many cracks appearing -- more by the day -- mainly on the
rounded top of the wall. We're talking cracks about every 4 to 5 inches,
more than hairline, but less wide than a normal pencil lead.

There are relatively few cracks on the vertical portions of the wall, and
most of these follow scratch marks.

The stucco was applied by machine, and was a very rich (1:3 cement to
sand) mix.

I have been spraying the wall 2-3 times per day with a hose.

My concern is about the cracking. I'd appreciate some insights from those
familiar with the issue. In specific:

1. Should I be concerned about all this cracking, or is this within the
range of "normal?"

2.  I want to finish the wall with another coat of stucco. My original
intent had been to do it quickly to achieve a chemical bond between the
coats, but with all
the cracking, I think I should wait till the cracking quits getting worse.
Any insights on pros and cons of waiting versus going ahead? How long
should I wait? Can one wait too long for a good bond?

3. My desire would be to apply a much less rich mix for the second coat.
Is this OK? Is there any problem with applying a much less rich mix over a
very rich mix? (The second coat will probably be my finish coat.)

4. Will the cracks from the scratch coat telegraph through the second
coat, or will a second coat cover and end the cracking problem?

I should add that this is in a mild, freeze-free climate, in case advice
varies according to climate.

Thanks to all for your insights and advice.

Richard Schmidt