Why does the 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.

Why do houses in the Southwest use stucco?

Stucco is energy efficient and provides insulation for the building or home, helping to cut these costs. In addition to the practical reasons to use it, stucco also provides an aesthetic style to buildings that is popular and characteristic of many areas in the Southwest.

Why are houses in the West made of stucco?

In the West and Southwest, where brick and stone were too scarce and too pricey to use as building materials, stucco became the siding of choice. Hundreds of thousands of affordable homes were slathered with the stuff.

Why is stucco used 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.

Why are all the houses in Florida stucco?

The majority of homes in Florida are covered in stucco. This convenient and affordable building material is made up of thin layers of cement that are designed to protect homes from moisture. In theory, stucco should last the lifetime of any home that is properly maintained and well cared for.

Buying a stucco home? Heads up.

Should I avoid stucco homes?

CONS. Due to its brittle nature, stucco siding will crack if a house foundation settles. It simply isn't the best choice in regions where soil is high in clay, notorious for swelling and causing foundations to shift. Over time, even stucco on homes with firm foundations can develop hairline cracks.

What are the disadvantages of stucco?

Con: Stucco Is Absorbent

Keep in mind that stucco is porous, so unlike vinyl and other siding materials, it absorbs moisture. The elements can therefore wreak havoc on your stucco, and as a result, your home may develop unsightly dark spots. It may even grow mold, which is very noticeable on your home's exterior.

Why don't they use stucco in cold weather?

The air temperature must be at least 40 degrees for contractors to work with stucco. When the temperature is below 40 degrees, the chemical process between the cement and water mix will slow down, and the water can begin to freeze.

Why are all the houses stucco in Phoenix?

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 isn't stucco used in cold climates?

Exterior Moisture

Moisture is the enemy of stucco, and elements such as snow, freezing rain and ice can quickly damage stucco. From the outside, snow, rain and melting ice are absorbed into the stucco, causing it to swell and bulge.

Why isn't stucco used in the Midwest?

Stucco is not normally seen in midwestern homes. This is because the siding material is known for dry, arid climates. Although stucco siding insulates extremely well (keeping heat out in hot climates), it absorbs water easily and does not perform well when exposed to a lot of moisture.

Why is there no stucco in New England?

The use of stucco as an exterior finish is traditional in Florida and California and is growing slowly in New England, as lumber of a suitable grade and species for exterior finish becomes harder to find.

Why doesn t Arizona have basement?

Because the ground doesn't freeze in Phoenix, you only have to dig 18 inches below the surface to pour concrete footing for a house. If you want a basement, you'll have to go out of your way to dig deeper. That's complicated by a common soil phenomena in the state called caliche.

Can stucco withstand hurricane winds?

It can withstand hurricane winds and up to 125mph water penetration.

Do stucco homes last longer?

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.

Are stucco homes more energy efficient?

Stucco is generally cheaper to buy, and since it is more energy efficient, it can also potentially save you money on your heating and cooling bills, when compared with buying vinyl siding. Vinyl might be a little more durable and less susceptible to damage, but stucco is more energy efficient.

Why is stucco a problem?

When a home's stucco doesn't have the necessary space or is below the grade, it can trap water and moisture leading to the formation of mold, rotting, cracking, and crumbling. Additionally, the stucco will begin to soak up even more moisture from the ground.

How long does stucco last in AZ?

It is recommended that Phoenix homeowners perform a regular assessment of the exterior of their home to identify any areas that need attention. With proper care and maintenance, your stucco can last 50 years or more!

Is stucco better than cement?

Stucco siding has better durability. While both types of siding are known for their strength, in the long run, stucco can last for decades longer than fiber cement.

Is stucco as strong as concrete?

Stucco, similar to concrete, is very strong in compression but weak in tension. Stucco compression strengths range from 2000 to 3000 psi, but tensile strength is only 100 to 200 psi.

Does stucco decrease home value?

Stucco Installation is Great for the Value of Your Home

With a variety of color, texture and design options, stucco installation is the right choice. Not only will it enhance your curb appeal and raise the value of your home, it will help you save on energy costs.

Is stucco as durable as brick?

Stucco is considered very energy efficient and can last up to 50 years or more. Brick with a little maintenance can last up to 100 years or more.

Does stucco attract termites?

Myth: My house is termite proof, because it's stucco and sits on a slab. Fact: Not true! Termites don't eat concrete or stucco, but anything containing cellulose can be a target. Termites can eat through drywall, wallpaper, and wooden furniture.

Is stucco good in humid weather?

While stucco offers a cheaper alternative to brick and stone and provides adequate fire protection, wet and humid climates can cause stucco to struggle.

What is the main purpose of stucco?

It is used as a decorative coating for walls and ceilings, exterior walls, and as a sculptural and artistic material in architecture. Stucco can be applied on construction materials such as metal, expanded metal lath, concrete, cinder block, or clay brick and adobe for decorative and structural purposes.