Why are houses in Arizona made of stucco?

Because of the shell-like exterior, stucco homes require much less energy during hot or cold months. Stucco is designed to do well in desert climates, like found here in Las Cruces and Southern New Mexico, where there is little moisture.

Why are houses in the desert made of stucco?

Even though deserts are known for their extremely hot temperatures, it can also get very cold at nights and in the winter, making the costs of heating and air high year-round. Stucco is energy efficient and provides insulation for the building or home, helping to cut these costs.

Why is stucco popular in Arizona?

Stucco is a long-lasting, durable siding material popular on homes in many parts of the U.S., particularly in the West and Southwest. It's the perfect exterior siding choice in Arizona because it does not do well with excessive moisture or precipitation.

Is stucco good for hot climates?

Why Should I Choose Stucco? In general, stucco does an excellent job of insulating hot and cold air. In fact, its energy-saving potential is one of its biggest draws, especially in warmer climates. It also has a natural resistance to fire and it's a lot easier to maintain than other types of siding, like vinyl or wood.

How long does stucco last in AZ?

How Long Does Stucco Last In Az? As a general rule, Phoenix homeowners should examine their exterior regularly to identify any areas that would need attention. In good condition and maintained, your stucco will last for over 50 years!! !

How to Install Stucco

How often should you paint a stucco house in Arizona?

Generally, stucco should be painted five to ten times a year. A good paint and other stucco maintenance schedule helps your house look excellent and prevents hairline cracks from turning into larger problems.

How often should a stucco house be painted?

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.

Why are all the houses in Florida stucco?

Houses in Florida are made of stucco because stucco is fairly inexpensive, creates a great finished look, and is easy to apply to homes constructed with concrete blocks. It is less popular in some regions because it can be damaged as a house shifts and settles over time.

Where is stucco used the most?

Stucco was the most common widely used as the primary exterior wall material in the Pacific, Mountain and South Atlantic divisions in 2019: 57 percent, 52 percent and 38 percent, respectively, of the new single-family homes started in those areas used it.

What is the purpose of stucco?

Stucco or render is a construction material made of aggregates, a binder, and water. Stucco is applied wet and hardens to a very dense solid. It is used as a decorative coating for walls and ceilings, exterior walls, and as a sculptural and artistic material in architecture.

Why does California use stucco?

Stucco is able to tolerate moisture and expansion up to a certain point. Brick veneer and vinyl are more efficient at keeping water out of exterior walls during times of heavy rain. However, this isn't much of an issue in Southern California. Also, stucco leaves less room for error when changing color plans.

What kind of stucco is used in Arizona?

Most common is "Spanish lace" that can be spread on in any one of a variety of patterns. Stucco can also have a rougher, heavier texture -- in large "pancakes" or "cat's faces" with little patches of raised areas here and there. A smooth "sand finish" is the most popular, according to Dedrick.

How are houses built in Arizona?

Most Arizona homes are built on a slab

Builders install strong steel cables before pouring concrete, and then apply tension after the concrete has set. The goal is to prevent the cracks that can be caused by soil changes. However, not all homes have these reinforced foundations and, even then, damage can still happen.

Why are houses in New Mexico Flat?

He noted that the main feature of the style is the flat roof, which tends to catch water. So they build parapets around the roofs to contain the water and then insert short narrow canals ( canales ), to drain it off.

Is stucco good 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 long does stucco last in New Mexico?

Exterior Stucco Finishes

Plus, we promise your stucco will last far beyond 10 years and offer a 12 year warranty as a guarantee.

Why does Southwest use stucco?

Because of the shell-like exterior, stucco homes require much less energy during hot or cold months. Stucco is designed to do well in desert climates, like found here in Las Cruces and Southern New Mexico, where there is little moisture.

When did they start using stucco on houses?

Beginning about 1890 and gaining momentum into the 1930s and 1940s, stucco was associated with certain historic architectural styles, including: Prairie; Art Deco, and Art Moderne; Spanish Colonial, Mission, Pueblo, Mediterranean, English Cotswold Cottage, and Tudor Revival styles; as well as the ubiquitous bungalow ...

When did they start using stucco?

In ancient Greece, a stucco siding contractor would use it on interior and exterior walls as early as 1400 BCE. In ancient India and China, stucco-like plasters were spread over rough stone or brick walls to smooth out surfaces.

Should I avoid 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 water penetrate 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 a risk to buy stucco house?

Water entry behind the stucco can cause deterioration (rot) of the underlying wood, allowing water to wet the insulation, framing members, and drywall in our homes. This type of damage goes undetected until an inspection is performed, and consequently is all having a negative impact on the resale value of these homes.

Does mold grow on stucco?

Because of stucco's non-absorbent surface, when mold grows on stucco it will generally grow directly on the surface. There must be two important factors involved for the mold to be able to grow, these are water, and organic materials, which feed the mold.

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 it better to re stucco or paint house?

Stucco is a durable and great-looking exterior finish, but it isn't invincible. Ideally, stucco should be painted every five to ten years. It's important to paint and perform other stucco maintenance on the right schedule to keep your home looking great and to prevent hairline cracks from growing larger.