Is exterior stucco good?

Pro: Stucco Is Durable

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.

What are the disadvantages of stucco?

How long does a stucco exterior last?

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 is the main problem with stucco?

There are several stucco problems that you can encounter. The most common ones are staining and discoloration, stucco cracking, and moisture intrusion. Other problems include stucco extending below grade and caulking. Some of these issues will need either repair or remediation.

What are the benefits of a stucco house?

Durability – the biggest advantage of Stucco is that it is resistant to fire, rot, mold, impact, and termite infestation. The finish on stucco homes has the capability to last up to 100 years depending on local climate conditions.

The Pros and Cons of Buying a Stucco Home

Whats better siding or stucco?

If you want durability, value, and style options, then siding is the best option for you. But, if you are not as concerned with budget and prefer a more natural seamless design look, go for stucco.

Is stucco a bad exterior?

Stucco is one of the most popular exterior finishes for homes. It's an attractive, low-maintenance and fire-resistant sheathing. But, like any building product, it's only as good as its application. And it's not right for every climate.

Does stucco increase home value?

Whether you're building a new home or simply renovating your existing one, stucco installation is something you should consider in your plans. Stucco is a durable and reliable siding material that can increase the value of your home.

Is it safe to power wash a stucco house?

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 it safe to buy a stucco house?

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.

Does stucco need maintenance?

Stucco isn't delicate. Whether applied as exterior siding or as a finish for interior walls, the age-old material requires little in the way of ongoing maintenance. Occasional cleaning or patching may be necessary, but with the right combination of products and tools, any homeowner can get the job done.

How often does stucco need to be repainted?

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.

Can water seep 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.

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.

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?

Stucco typically lasts between 50 and 80 years. When it's time to refresh yours, sandblast away the old layer and start from scratch. Patch small cracks with commercially available stucco fillers.

Why you should not paint stucco?

Stucco needs to breath – One of the main reasons you shouldn't coat your stucco with paint is because stucco is porous. This allows moisture that hits the surface to easily evaporate away. A coat of paint can harm that breathability.

Why does stucco turn black?

The black stains you see could be an accumulation of the dead, dark-colored cells of the hardy algae Gloeocapsa magma, which feeds on the calcium carbonate in the unpainted stucco mixture. But it's easy to remove the black stains — whether they're mold, mildew or algae — with oxygen bleach.

What does mold look like on stucco?

Identifying Exterior Mold on Stucco

Mold on exterior stucco looks pretty much like mold on anything else. It can present as green, dark brown or black patches and streaks, or fuzzy-looking stains. Check around your gutters, around windows and doors, and along the base of your walls.

Does stucco decrease home value?

While nearly one in four homes in the United States are covered in stucco, only a small percentage of stucco homes have a value higher than the median price of the surrounding area. However, stucco homes are also more likely to sell for more than the median price of the surrounding area.

Is stucco cheaper than siding?

You'll be Paying Way More with Stucco Siding

Stucco costs about $6-$9/square foot which is the most expensive home cladding option available. While vinyl siding prices range greatly, even the most expensive option doesn't cost nearly that much money. So, stucco is way more expensive.

When should I stucco my house?

After 30 to 50 years of life a stucco building may need to be re-stuccoed. Depending on the condition of the property, and the desires of the owner, there are several options. Our NuWall Inc San Diego Re-Stucco Experts can help with determining the best course of action.

Which is better brick or stucco?

Brick has a higher resale value than stucco of up to 6%. The attraction of low maintenance, high fire resistance, and durability gives brick an edge over stucco for home buyers.