Stucco siding, a hand-troweled masonry plaster consisting of cement, water, and sand, is a definitive feature of Spanish and Mediterranean architecture. These stucco homes feature exteriors in various textures from pebbled to sweeping swirls to virtually smooth, depending on the application process, and provide durable protection against the elements. But this kind of masonry does have its downsides, and it isn’t suitable for every property. So whether your house-hunting has attracted you to this distinct look, you’re considering residing your home in stucco, or you want to preserve the stucco exterior you’ve already got, read on for a crash course.

Stucco Defined

Traditional stucco, occasionally called “hard-coat” stucco, is an outer cladding material made from portland cement, lime, sand, and water. It has the thickness of fine concrete and is applied to the outer surfaces of walls, much like plaster. Cured stucco is extremely hard and is usually used to have a textured surface. Newer stucco-like cladding materials are made from synthetic components and softer textures than traditional stucco.

Three-Coat Stucco

In a three-coat application process, the stucco installer starts by attaching a metal weep screed to the base of the home’s exterior walls; the screed allows any water that penetrates the stucco to drain away. A paper dampness barrier goes down next, followed by a metal wire lath that gives a surface for the first layer of stucco to grip. The first layer of stucco, called the scratch coat, acts as an anchoring base for the subsequent layers. The second layer, called the brown coat, builds up and evens the surface. The final layer, called the texture or finish coat, provides the final, finished surface. Sometimes the texture coat possesses an integral coloring; if not, the stucco can be painted with any exterior paint.

One-Coat Stucco

A one-coat application process supersedes the scratch and brown coats with one thick coating of stucco followed by a thinner coat. The underlying layer of stucco is usually applied over an insulating foam panel. Although the application processes of one-coat and three-coat stucco differ, the composition of the stucco is essentially the same, and the finishing process is similar.

EIFS Systems

The application process for an Exterior Insulating Finish System, sometimes called “synthetic stucco” as it does not contain Portland cement, is similar to that of one-coat stucco, with two layers of finish material applied over foam board insulation. HOWEVER, many EIFS installations do not incorporate weep screeds, and the nonporous composition of the synthetic cladding material may trap moisture under the cladding, resulting in moisture damage to the wall.

Effective

Cement, crushed marble, and sand are all dense materials. Combined, they produce a heavy-duty substance that insulates your home better than vinyl or even brick—stucco exterior results in an air-sealed and noise-resistant interior. In addition, it’s energy-efficient because your heating and air system operate more efficiently.

Moisture-resistant

EIFS adds a layer to stucco that produces a barrier. Then, the barrier attaches to the insulation board, allowing drainage to occur. Stucco itself is already resistant to fungus, so the combination of stucco and EIFS work together to avoid moisture.

Fire-resistant

Think about the materials used in stucco: cement and sand. Both materials naturally stand up to heat and fire. While no material claims to completely resist fire, stucco certainly performs better than vinyl and wood.

Durable

A stucco exterior lasts longer than other building materials, assuming proper installation and maintenance. As a result, stucco is a wise building material choice for your residential or commercial property.

Versatile

Stucco can be applied in a variety of textures and colours and on a variety of existing exteriors, such as wood or steel.

Attractive

Stucco homes have immense curb appeal. Due to its versatility, you can do so much with stucco to create an eye-catching home exterior that will last for years to come. Additionally, the craftsmanship behind quality stucco attracts admirers far and wide.

Customizable

Your options are nearly limitless when it comes to customizing stucco. Texture options vary widely. Moreover, the fact that pigment joins the actual stucco mixture means that many possibilities for color exist.

Budget-friendly

Stucco homes are not only durable but also easy on the pocketbook, making it a wise choice.

Low maintenance

Stucco is a durable material that stands the test of time. As long as it’s properly mixed and applied, it requires less maintenance than other siding materials.

Valuable

Stucco provides monetary value in several ways. For one, the actual home appraisal may be higher than comparing different siding. For another, you may realize a lower insurance premium. Finally, you could save money during construction and ongoing maintenance, energy costs, and more.

Our expert contractors continually attend further education and stay on top of current research to bring the best evidence-based plans and the latest techniques for you. This enables us to deliver a wide range of services to suit your needs.

We entertain all your requirements in the same place and offer accurate services for you, whichever specialist you may need to see, you will find them available here ready to serve you.