How long does stucco last on a house?

Stucco is a very durable finish material with a typical life span of 50-80 years or more. Although it is one of the most durable surfaces available, it also features the lowest annual maintenance cost when compared to other siding materials. Stucco is a natural material consisting of an aggregate, a binder, and water.

What are the problems with stucco houses?

Stucco tears and other discoloration around windows, doors, electrical boxes, pipes, meters, and spotlights. Pervasive scent of wood rot. Water leaking into the house, damaging the ceiling, walls, and flooring. Dry rot around windows.

How often should you re stucco a house?

Stucco is a popular exterior choice due to its durability. However, a stucco home will still need exterior maintenance. It is often recommended that stucco be painted every 5-10 years depending on its current condition. Each stucco home may have a different timeline on when it will need repairs and maintenance.

Is stucco A good exterior for a house?

Stucco is a cement, sand, and water mixture, so it stays rigid, even in strong winds. Many folks may even prefer buying a stucco home over, for example, a brick structure. Additionally, stucco is fire- and pest-resistant, making it one of the most ideal residential building materials.

How do you maintain a stucco house?

Regular Cleaning

The good news is that cleaning indoor stucco usually takes nothing more than water and a bit of elbow grease. Simply scrub the dingy stucco with a dampened nylon brush to saturate the surface, then rub away the buildup with a moistened microfiber cloth (or clean cotton rag).

Buying a stucco home? Heads up.

Should I avoid stucco homes?

Stucco can tolerate moisture and expansion only up to a certain point. It is not as good as brick veneer or vinyl siding for keeping water out of the exterior walls of your house during periods of heavy rain. It will repel water well in average climates, but it may not be recommended in extremely rainy areas.

How often should you seal stucco?

If new, stucco can be sealed with a clear concrete/ masonry sealer, which will penetrate into the stucco and stop moisture entrance. These are typically silicone type sealers. While effective, these finishes will usually need to be redone every 4-5 years.

What are the disadvantages of stucco?

Is it common for stucco to crack?

In short, hairline stucco cracks are common and can be easily repatched. Most are not a serious indicator of foundation damage or structural disrepair. However, hairline cracks caused by foundation settlement will likely reappear after the repair and worsen.

Is stucco hard to maintain?

Stucco is a very durable finish material with a typical life span of 50-80 years or more. Although it is one of the most durable surfaces available, it also features the lowest annual maintenance cost when compared to other siding materials. Stucco is a natural material consisting of an aggregate, a binder, and water.

Should you paint over stucco?

While stucco is a very durable surface, it will need to be repainted periodically – but not often. Proper application using high-quality paint can help your stucco last over 20 years without peeling or blistering, but its longevity also depends on environmental factors.

Can you use a pressure washer on stucco?

Yes, you can use a power washer or pressure washer to clean stucco. Just make sure to maintain a good distance between the nozzle and the surface, use the 1,500 PSI, and a 25- or 40-degree nozzle. Although, given the intensity of a power washer, seeking the help of a professional is always best.

Is stucco better than brick?

In terms of durability and longevity, brick is the better option. When it comes to appearance, wide color selection, and the ability to be painted, stucco wins the contest. Stucco needs to be maintained quite regularly, while brick is low-maintenance.

Is it expensive to re stucco a house?

Stucco siding installation on an average home costs $8,000 to $12,000 for materials and labor. To re-stucco a house, add $1 per square foot for stucco removal costs. Stucco installation costs about $7,500 for a small house, $11,000 for a medium-sized house, and $14,000 for a large house.

Should I replace stucco with siding?

When water damage and mold result from improper stucco application, it's time for a siding material change. The most popular siding replacement materials are fiber cement and vinyl. Vinyl may be cost-effective, but it is also thin, dents easily, and doesn't last as long as fiber cement.

Can water get through stucco?

Despite what many people think about stucco walls, stucco walls are not water-resistant. As a matter of fact water actually absorbs into the stucco. In most cases, the problem with water leaking through stucco is that the building envelope has been breached.

How do you know if stucco cracks are serious?

The most “dangerous” cracks are typically wider than 1/16 inches, with edges that are no longer aligned parallel to each other. If the edge of a crack has moved in relation to the other edge, it may indicate unusual structural changes in your home.

Should I be worried about cracks in stucco?

Larger cracks, we're talking 1/16 of an inch, are cause for concern. If you can slide your credit card into the crack in your stucco, it's time to seek some professional help. Larger cracks like these can indicate a structural issue that needs to be addressed prior to repairing the stucco.

Does stucco last longer than siding?

Assuming proper installation and avoidance of disasters, both materials will last more than 50 years. With care, vinyl last between 40 and 75 years before needing replacement. Stucco can last 60 to 100 years before it needs replacing, thus making if the more durable option.

Is stucco long lasting?

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

Why is my stucco crumbling?

Crumbling stucco could be due to age, stress, pest infestations, settling, water damage, vibrations, impact accidents, and even improper stucco installation. As more stucco crumbles away, the problem worsens because the stucco integrity is breached and additional water can seep inside.

Should you waterproof stucco?

Waterproofing is essential for almost every building project. If not properly sealed, structures will allow moisture to seep into materials, where it can become trapped. If this moisture does not drain properly, it can cause rotting, damage and mold. With this in mind, it's important to properly waterproof stucco.

How long does stucco paint last?

When it comes to your stucco home, the right paint process matters. When done right, a professional paint job on your stucco home should last 7-10 years.