Home :: Remodeling Magazine :: Siding :: Maintaining Stucco Siding

Maintaining Stucco Siding

Whether used in a modern and contemporary neighborhood, or to accentuate the warm terracotta roof of a Spanish hacienda, stucco siding has a unique look all its own. With the ability to by dyed or painted any color imaginable, there is no question stucco is visually appealing. As with any product, it helps to know of any drawbacks along with the strong points.

Installation. Stucco siding is applied by spreading or spraying a wet mixture of Portland cement and limestone over wire lath or fiber-cement board sheathing. It will require two or three coats, and can either be dyed ahead of time, or painted when dry. A process that requires a high amount of skill, it is recommended a professional do the work for best results.

Durability. Stucco siding is fireproof, durable, solid, and can last for many years if properly maintained. Additionally, it is a porous material so that any moisture absorbed will quickly evaporate back out. One drawback to traditional stucco is that it can crack with building movement; but these cracks can be easily repaired.

Maintenance. Hose off occasionally, repaint as needed, and have any cracks filled whenever they appear. Although stucco is considered to have a long lifespan, you can always re-stucco your home at any point.

There is a product that resembles stucco on the market referred to as Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS). This product consists of an acrylic-polymer coat of Styrofoam that is installed much the same way as traditional stucco. Not only is it more expensive, but it is also more vulnerable to weather extremes and is not considered as durable as traditional stucco. Although originally heralded as the “up and coming,†more water resistant form of stucco, this product has developed more of a bad reputation in recent years and is losing its popularity. Sometimes, its problems can be confused with stucco.

Overall, stucco is considered a durable and desirable choice for siding. For best results, hire a certified professional to install your siding.

Receive FREE Siding
Estimates

Provide a valid 5 digit U.S. zipcode

Here is what has been said about our Siding Contractors:

I wanted to thank you for taking the time to come out to my house to assess my damage and to explain my options to me.  The guys that came out to do the work were very professional and very nice.  They did a beautiful job and I wanted them and you to know that we really appreciate their work.  It looks very nice - and now we no longer have birds building nests up in our attic (smile).  Thanks again for always being so helpful.                      

Dear Danny,  

My husband and I wish to thank you and your company for the beautiful job you have done on our house.

You and your company certainly live by the golden rule.  Do unto others as you would have them do unto you, is exactly what you did for us.

We had so called professionals work on the house before, the result was a disaster.  My daughter-in-law came to our rescue by giving us your name and phone number.

You came and talk to us face to face giving us ideas for repairing and fixing our home.

The job done by you is perfect.  I am so happy with the windows and doors installed by your Integrity.  There are no gaps, no sags, and no drafts.  I highly recommend you to anyone wishing to have work done on their home.  Your phone number is in our phone book, ready to be dialed when your service is needed.  We once more thank you for a job well done.  Your service was courteous, polite and friendly.   

We wish you well,  

Best regards,  

Jim and Madeleine Witten