Plaster, applied in a plastic state, may create a great variety of design configurations or texture patterns. It has been a popular finish for most of history, and can be applied to all types of buildings: from single-family homes to high-rise structures. Since it lasts the lifetime of the building, redecoration is necessary only when a change in color is desired.
Q: What are the benefits of stucco?
A: Added fire resistance, better insulation against heat as well as against cold, structural strength, and maintenance-free color coats. Instead of painting your house every five years, these finishes will last the life of the building. However they do start to mellow in appearance with the passage of time.
Q: What types of wood style can you stucco over?
A: Almost all which include horizontal or diagonal siding as well as T-one-eleven which if not maintained nears the end of its life cycle quickly. Although Ship-lap siding and shingles are about the only sidings I recommend removing, I have applied stucco over these on occasion.
Q: Can you apply a color coat over painted stucco?
A: Yes, however the painted surface must be prepared properly. It must be clean and then we apply a bonding agent over the painted surface. This adheres color coats to painted surfaces.
Q: Can I color coat just around a window?
A: No. You have to color the whole wall because color coat is not like paint. It cannot be blended in anywhere.
Q: Why does stucco darken when wet?
A: Because it is porous and not sealed like paint. When it absorbs water it darkens. This is normal and not a problem, the waterproof layer is behind the stucco.
Q: Is it cheaper to paint or stucco?
A: Painting is often, but not always, cheaper in the short run. It’s much easier to spray or roll on five gallons of paint on a single story home than it is to lath (paper and wire) the same home, then add fifteen tons of sand and cement to it after its lathed. But then you must repaint every 5-10 years. With a maintenance free stucco finish you will never have to refinish your home again.
These are the most common questions I am asked. If you have any other questions please contact me.
The Art of Stucco mixed with a bit of Stucco forensic science