Stucco Wall Detail Drawings? The 7 Latest Answer

Stucco provides a durable, low-maintenance surface that adds a lot of character to a home. It can be applied in either one or three coats, but there is some confusion about the methods. Let’s take a look at each technique and the benefits each has to offer:

What is three-layer stucco?

Three coats is the original stucco process, consisting of paper and wire, a scratch coat, a brown coat, and a finish or “top” coat. In terms of industry – slat, scratch and brown. The final coating is not considered a step as it is required for any type of application, so they mainly refer to the phases up to the final coating.

More specifically, a strip of asphalt-loaded paper is applied over a weather-resistant barrier. Then a layer of furry chicken wire (which sticks out a bit from the wall) is applied. Next comes the scratch coat, a base coat of field-mixed Portland cement, sand, lime, and water with a series of horizontal lines scratched into it. Then comes the brown coat. This coat is applied with a darby or long trowel to ensure the cement is applied evenly. Finally, a top layer is applied with a squeegee and trowel, which can be applied in different structures. These coats are available in a range of colors so no additional painting is required.

The great advantage of three-layer stucco is its strength and durability. Because it is twice as thick as a layer, it better withstands wear and tear. The two disadvantages are time and cost. It can take weeks for each coat to be applied and cured. As a result, the additional materials and labor make the three-layer option more expensive than the single-layer option.

What is One Coat Stucco and what is the benefit?

The term monolayer stucco refers to a mixture of Portland cement, sand, fibers, special proprietary chemicals, and water. This method speeds up the three-layer stucco process by combining the scratch and brown layers in a single application ranging from 3/8″ to 1/2″ thick. It is typically installed over rigid foam board and battens to provide a continuous insulated durable cladding as required by the Energy Code.

However, the term “single coat” is a misnomer as the first iteration mixed the colored top coat into the mix. Unfortunately this resulted in uneven color and fibers showing in the top layer so the two layer method was adjusted.

The one-layer process is enjoying growing popularity due to the speed and cost advantages. Compared to three coats, one coat saves money as it takes about half the time to apply, resulting in faster job completion, reduced labor costs, low maintenance and a better life cycle cost ratio. Yet, One Coat Stucco offers the same benefits you’d expect from three-layer stucco…durability, design flexibility, and fire resistance. The downside is that the thinner depth makes it more prone to damage.

Common problems with stucco and home construction

Stucco is actually a porous material and is intended to allow water to be absorbed. House wrap or hydrophobic barrier acts as a drainage layer, and as the stucco dries, water will flow down the construction board and seep out the bottom of the stucco. As long as the sheathing remains dry and water does not become lodged in the wall cavity, problems are rare. But… they still happen.

It is important that high performing builders and contractors are aware of these issues as they are much less forgiving when water enters the system. For example using household foil as a water repellent barrier (WRB). House film is primarily an air barrier with water repellent properties. Due to changes in building codes mandating the use of WRBs, contractors should be aware that for proper function there must be a gap between the stucco and the WRB to allow water to dry out. If this is not followed as best practice, water can become trapped and damage the entire wall assembly, not only leading to the growth of black mold but also compromising the structural integrity of the building.

In addition, improper window trim continues to be a problem since stucco paneling is most susceptible to excessive amounts of water entering the wall assembly at window trim and eaves.

How is tape used in stucco applications?

You may not know that masking tape is an important tool used in the application of exterior stucco. Stucco composite can damage windows and frames if accidentally comes into contact with it during application. Contractors therefore ensure they are masked off with tape specially designed to provide a strong hold against plaster and to withstand intense sunlight and fluctuating temperatures. It’s also important that the tape be able to hold heavy plastic sheeting used to keep windows and other surfaces clean and protected while stucco is applied. In addition, tape is used to create a watertight seal to protect surfaces that should not get wet, as discussed in the Common Issues section. (Also, one of the steps in applying stucco is to apply a light spray of water to the stucco surface to aid in curing!)

So why use specialty stucco tape instead of something more generic? It all comes down to choosing the right tool for the job. Stucco work requires tapes specifically designed to withstand the weight of plaster; stick to multiple surfaces, not just concrete and wood; and leaves no residue when removed 7, 10 or even 60 days later. That means it must withstand a variety of elements, including sun, rain, wind, and even extreme temperatures, before it can be removed cleanly.

Consider these related posts for more stucco info:

If you are involved in stucco work, be sure to choose tape that is designed for stucco purposes to ensure a clean, quality job. Check out ECHOtape’s stucco masking solutions here. And if you have any questions about stucco tape or any of our other pressure-sensitive adhesive tapes, please contact us. We have been passionate about helping professionals with their tough problems for more than 40 years!

Stucco failure warning sign

There are a number of warning signs that can indicate stucco failure. If you notice any of the following common plaster problems with your home, you should call a plasterer right away.

Persistent water spots, stains and discoloration

While stucco is designed to naturally retain some moisture, permanent water stains on the exterior of your stucco home can indicate serious problems. Stucco water stains, commonly referred to as spots, can be seen as either white, cloudy streaks or dark spots in color. Left untreated, trapped moisture can lead to the formation of black mold, rotting wood and compromising the structural integrity of your home. Often this is caused by poorly installed or missing flashing.

As a homeowner, you should pay particular attention to the areas around your doors and windows. They are typically the most common problem areas for stucco homes. However, stains can appear anywhere. While permanent water stains don’t always indicate problems with your stucco, it’s in your best interest to call a professional if you notice one on your home.

cracking in your piece

Stucco houses can crack over time for a variety of reasons. Land shifts, improper mix ratios, and poor workmanship are some potential causes of cracks in your home. Not only does this look bad, but cracks that go deeper than the surface can cause significant problems for your home.

Unfortunately, the cracking is not a singular problem. Most often, stucco cracks propagate as the house foundation settles. Cracks smaller than 1/16 inch are common and usually not a cause for concern provided you fix them in a timely manner. However, larger cracks can allow water to become trapped and lead to problems like the ones mentioned above. While you may be tempted to just fix the cracks, all that really helps is a temporary fix. If the cracks are deep enough, there’s a good chance water has already seeped through.

Expand below the class

This has less to do with the actual stucco and more to do with improper building practice. Stucco that extends underground can cause significant problems for your home. When we say “below the level” we are referring to the stucco applied below where the foundation of the house meets the ground. There must be at least two inches of space for the stucco to drain properly. When a home’s stucco does not have the required space or is below grade, it can trap water and moisture, leading to the formation of mold, rot, cracking, and crumbling. In addition, the stucco absorbs even more moisture from the floor.

Unfortunately, unless you’re a detail advocate or a home inspector, you probably have no reason to check your home for it. Unlicensed contractors and shoddy building practices have plagued southeastern Pennsylvania for years. If you are concerned that your home’s stucco is substandard, it is best to contact a professional immediately.

Caulking and other water-repellent sealants

Caulk is a material used to seal joints, seams and cracks against leakage. It is commonly found on the trim of the doors and windows of your home. When the caulk has dried out, shriveled, or appeared to be missing altogether, your home can become vulnerable to water infiltration, leading to many of the problems previously mentioned.

However, doors and windows aren’t the only areas you need to be aware of. Many stucco home owners will have trouble with exterior features such as lights, decks, and other objects that protrude from a home. It is important for homeowners to monitor these areas to ensure sealers are in good condition to protect them from the elements.

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Expert advice on stucco paneling including pros and cons with helpful diagram and photos of stucco wall construction.

Stucco is a plaster-like siding popular as a siding material for many styles of homes, from Southwestern and European styles to contemporary.

Because stucco is essentially concrete, it has several significant advantages over cladding materials such as wood. First, it’s tough and durable – with proper maintenance, it will last 50 years or more. And it’s seamless, so the weather doesn’t have cracks and crevices to penetrate. Because it is a form of masonry, it is not susceptible to damage from fire, rot, or insects, and is good at insulating sound.

On the other hand, stucco can be brittle and as a result can crack when the house is set or during earthquakes. However, stucco is now formulated with epoxy, making it more elastic and therefore less prone to breakage. If it cracks, it can be repaired as per How to Fix Stucco article.

Another disadvantage is that in extremely rainy regions, water can seep into the stucco and eventually penetrate walls. With any stucco installation, proper masking is an absolute must to prevent damage to the interior of the wall. The application must ensure that water penetrating through the material is properly drained.

Check what local contractors recommend before painting stucco. If painting is an option, choose a 100 percent acrylic latex paint specifically formulated for plaster surfaces. See also How to Paint Stucco.

Traditional stucco construction

Traditional stucco is made from a mixture of Portland cement, fine sand, water and hydrated lime. Also, it may contain acrylic or fiberglass additives that improve its strength and flexibility.

It is applied wet in three coats: a base coat called the “scratch coat”, a second “brown coat” and a final “top coat”.

After applying the first layer, a notched trowel is used to “scratch” the surface with horizontal grooves so that the next brown layer has some grip. Then comes the brown coat and finally the top coat.

Before each subsequent coat is applied, the previous one is allowed to dry—usually a day or two before applying the brown coat and a week or two before applying the top coat. In hot weather, each coat is regularly lightly sprayed with water to allow it to cure slowly and evenly – drying too quickly will weaken it. And the last layer may crack due to shrinkage if not hardened slowly.

Stucco is applied to a wire mesh base that holds it in place and helps prevent cracking. The diagram above shows how an older stucco wall is built – note how this differs from the newer construction shown in the photos below. In the older style, a chicken-wire-like mesh called “stucco netting” is fastened over horizontal wooden lath spacers to allow the stucco to squeeze and grab into pockets.

In newer stucco construction, a much heavier, three-dimensional wire lath is nailed, screwed, or stapled directly to the studs under the base of the weather barrier and sheathing. Contemporary forms of wire slats include woven wire slats, welded wire slats, and expanded metal slats.

Because stucco is porous, the substrate—usually plywood or OSB—must have at least one layer of weather-resistant, vapor-permeable, asphalt-impregnated building paper (“felt”) or plastic-based building envelope or stucco envelope. This barrier must repel weather and water but allow vapor to escape. In many cases two coats are used as the stucco will stick to the top coat making it less effective. A “weep screed” at the foundation line allows water to drain away.

The first two coats can be troweled or sprayed onto the wall. The final coat is typically applied to the surface and given one of many possible textures, from smooth to sandy or irregular.

Instead of painting stucco, pigment is usually mixed into the final layer. A popular option is to use an acrylic based finish as the final coat. Because acrylic surfaces are resilient, they are much less likely to crack and also help minimize moisture penetration into the stucco.

Stucco can also be applied to properly primed solid masonry surfaces such as cinder block, brick, or older stucco. However, to ensure adhesion, it should not be applied to a painted surface without first sandblasting.

Thin-layer stucco systems

Modern synthetic stucco can be applied as a base coat and a top coat that is thinner and has a shorter application life than traditional stucco – closer to a week than two.

The basis for this system is similar to that described above: wire mesh over weather-resistant, vapor-permeable construction paper. However, the composition of the material is different. Mixed with just water and sand, the base coat contains chopped fiberglass and acrylic polymers to make it stronger.

The final coating is typically a colored elastomeric formula mixed with a fine aggregate. The result is a smooth, water-resistant surface that is less prone to cracking than ordinary stucco. It usually looks a bit more uniform in color as well.

One downside is that since it’s thinner than traditional stucco, it’s more easily damaged. Another reason is that it takes longer to dry when it’s soaked. Last but not least, these systems are proprietary and must be used exactly to specification or the warranty may be void.

External Insulation and Finishing Systems (EIFS)

Known to professionals as EIFS, short for Exterior Insulation and Finishing System, this form of synthetic stucco differs from traditional stucco. With ETICS, the panels are covered with an acrylic coating that looks like plaster. The panels can be foam or fiber cement board siding (foam has much higher insulation values). The polymers are generally sprayed onto the panels.

ETICS systems have a reputation for having moisture-related problems, mainly due to improper application. Basically, water can get trapped in the walls and cause rot and mold if it is not properly secured by a membrane, connector and proper drainage system. Before you decide on an ETICS system, do your homework! Professional and quality installation is imperative.

cost of stucco

Stucco is not as expensive as high quality cedar siding, but costs significantly more than vinyl or fiber cement siding. The only way to really determine the cost is to get an estimate, but expect it will likely cost between $6 and $11 per square foot for materials and labor.

Featured Resource: Find a pre-vetted local plasterwork contractor

Stucco is a popular choice for residential and commercial siding that has advantages over other material options, especially for certain regions. Although found nationwide, its desert-like climate makes it most popular in the southwestern United States. In fact, 50-60% of homes in this region are made with stucco.* Stucco is also commonly used in the states of Texas and Florida.

An advantage of stucco, especially for the Southwest region, has to do with the components of stucco. It consists of a mixture of sand, lime, cement and water. These materials are plentiful in this area, making them inexpensive and easy to manufacture.

A hot, dry, and desert-like climate creates a perfect environment for stucco work, as stucco work does not fare well in prolonged heavy rainfall or excessive humidity. However, stucco is fire resistant, which helps provide an extra level of security to protect home and building owners in dry, fire-prone regions.

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

In addition to the practical reasons for its use, stucco lends buildings an aesthetic style that is popular and characteristic of many areas of the Southwest. Stucco can even be tinted to dry a specific color – allowing homeowners to customize it to a unique shade.

Proper stucco application requires stucco masking tape that can withstand the roughness of the work. Learn more about tapes used in plaster applications at Shurtape.com.

Beyond Beauty: Plaster and Stucco are Natural Winners for Sustainable Walls:

Many people love plaster and stucco as sustainable building finishes because they look beautiful. But the benefits of a plaster and/or stucco for walls instead of paint go well beyond the exterior. The ingredients in these paints occur naturally and have been used in building plaster for thousands of years. The basic composition of both stucco and gypsum is water, sand and binder (typically lime, clay and/or cement). Traditional recipes and more and more modern systems use lime and/or clay instead of cement. Adding lime to a modern mix can improve its workability.

Advantage: vapor and moisture management

Perhaps one of the best advantages of plaster and stucco is that they are the best at absorbing and releasing steam and moisture. Breathable walls help protect the air quality in your home. They absorb pigment easily and are available in a range of colours. Both are fireproof and absorb noise, resulting in a quieter home. When stucco or plaster has a flaw, it can be difficult to get it done well and is best done by experienced professionals (especially exterior stucco and interior painting). It proceeds meticulously in two to three shifts and is labor intensive. The skill and labor required for a good application often make these finishes more expensive than other finishes.

Stucco vs Plaster, What’s the Difference?

In general, most people refer to stucco as a coating for the exterior of a building and plaster as a coating for interior walls, although plaster can be used both internally and externally. Stucco is a rougher texture and plaster is a smoother texture. The ingredients in stucco and plaster are pretty much the same – lime, clay or cement, water and sand (with many possible additives).

Natural lime plaster

Natural lime plaster is made from finely ground limestone, a sedimentary rock, that is fired in a kiln. Historically, the use of natural lime fell out of favor when Portland cement became popular in the 19th century. Natural lime is currently experiencing a resurgence. Portland cement is also made from limestone with clay and other mineral additives. It is also cooked in an oven at higher temperatures than lime.

Natural lime plasters tend to be more workable than cement plasters, are relatively hard surfaces, and have advantages. Lime offers the hardness of cement but is easier to repair, more carbon friendly, and more vapor permeable. Another advantage of the natural lime plaster is that the plaster application is much more forgiving than the stucco application. This makes it more accessible to homeowners.

Faswall can source premium Secil NHL for natural lime plaster

Shelterworks (Faswall’s parent company www.healthyshelterworks.com) brings the high quality Natural Hydraulic Lime or NHL (Secil brand) from Portugal to the United States. Secil is one of the leading European cement brands and offers excellent workability. NHL is an ideal stucco and plaster substrate for breathable Faswall walls. We recommend Limestrong Craft Plaster for finishing paint with its wide range of pigmented colours. Limestrong also offers a roster of plastering and stucco professionals and trains professionals and DIYers who want to invest in learning quality techniques.

As you can imagine, natural lime plaster is the same as natural lime plaster. The difference is that it is specifically formulated for external use in homes and other structures. Stucco and plaster of paris can be applied to many types of block and natural wall materials including faswall, cement blocks, thatch, adobe, adobe and more. Both have great advantages in maintaining vapor permeability.

Advantages of plastering walls

Whether the plaster is used indoors or outdoors, it has many advantages over modern drywall and other wall coatings.

Plaster and stucco are non-toxic

Unlike most paints, plaster does not contain VOCs or other toxic materials. Plaster and stucco are usually colored by adding pigments. When pigments are used, these are often natural. Even when cleaning interior walls, no harmful dust is generated.

durability

A properly mixed and applied plaster is stronger and more durable than drywall. Gypsum is also resistant to bumps and dents.

easy installation

Faswall walls can be finished directly with stucco or plaster on both sides. The success lies in the fact that Faswall is porous, which means that stucco or plaster adheres easily (more on that in the next section!). Applying natural lime plaster to Faswall requires no additional wall finishes, vapor barriers or other moisture control measures, meaning fewer toxins in your home. Plaster doesn’t need to be sanded, and it can be done quickly.

Insulation, Fireproof, Soundproofing

Interior plaster provides better insulation, fire resistance, and soundproofing than drywall. Because moisture vapor passes from your homes (aka breathability), it won’t harbor mold or mildew under most conditions. Builders hear the difference to houses with natural limestone interior walls and/or stucco walls on the outside and often notice how pleasantly quiet and sound-insulating a facade house with stucco and/or plaster is.

aesthetics and style

Plaster just “feels” good, which is hard to describe until you’ve actually been in a house with plaster or stucco walls. When you touch it, it’s harder, feels cooler, and is tougher than drywall. It is aesthetically pleasing in many ways and increases the resale value of your home as many people truly appreciate the skill that goes into quality plasterwork.

Use of stucco and plaster systems with Faswall

The mineral content of Faswall consists of cements and lime. If you use a lime or cement plaster or stucco on Faswall, it will chemically fuse with it. The crystals from the lime and cement plaster grow into the faswall and become a monolithic membrane, or in other words, they are chemically bound. This creates a durable and quality finish that increases the longevity and value of the home.

Other wall coverings are only applied to the surface – they are glued on or have some other type of mechanical connection, which makes them weaker. Plaster and stucco can be permanent wallcoverings in all climates – wet, dry, hot or cold.

When moisture moves through a plaster or stucco faced Faswall wall, the system allows the moisture to flow in and out without ‘getting stuck’ anywhere. This makes the walls resistant to mold, rot and fungus, regardless of humidity.

Because the vapor is absorbed by the faswall and then released, it can be felt almost like a vapor bench. Whether your weather is wet or dry, walls absorb and release moisture vapor, so you’re more likely to experience a constant state of even, stable relative humidity in your home. Different plasters have different abilities to absorb and release vapor and moisture, but generally they absorb and release them very evenly.

Do you have questions about your plaster or stucco finish for your Faswall project? Please contact us and we can talk about what works best for you.

Stucco is a popular choice for buildings around the world because it can be used to stylize facades and add a touch of allure and color. Stucco is commonly made from Portland cement plaster and can be applied to walls and other surfaces inside and outside buildings. The material is highly durable, fire retardant, requires little maintenance if installed correctly and can even be mixed to create different textures and finishes.

Are you someone considering stucco for the interior or exterior of your home? Knowing the different application systems and styles will help you when meeting with the contractor. You can also decide which optical finish best suits your home’s aesthetic.

Here is everything you need to know about various stucco works:

Different types of stucco

There are two main types of stucco: traditional and synthetic.

Traditional stucco

Traditional stucco consists of sand, lime and water. Nowadays stucco is mixed with cement. The addition of cement makes stucco much more durable. Lime, on the other hand, makes stucco easier to shape. Sometimes fiberglass and acrylic are added to traditional stucco to reinforce it and make it strong. Pure cement plaster is quite hard, and unless a stable grating, called a lath, is applied, the plaster will crack. Traditional stucco is distinguished for its versatility. The outside can be smoothed or roughened. With proper use and care, stucco can last around 50 years.

Synthetic stucco

Unlike traditional stucco, plastic does not use cement and lime. Instead, plastics use acrylic resin, which is resistant to water damage. Synthetic stucco dries evenly and quickly and can be applied to foam board instead of mesh. The acrylic resin also imparts movement to stucco, making it less prone to cracking and breaking.

Different stucco surfaces

Similar to stucco styles, there are finishes that can add more to the trim, all of which have pros and cons.

float or sand

The most common finish for commercial building stucco would be “float” or “sand”. This is a versatile finish that can be used on both traditional and synthetic stucco and is applied in a single coat. When the job needs to be done quickly, the Float/Sand finish is ideal as you only need that one coat for full coverage. It can also be sprayed on or applied with a trowel. Float or sand has coarse, fine, and medium speckles.

hyphen

Dash is sprayed on homes at a light, medium, or heavy volume. Dash is a unique look and can be modified with 1-3 layers. This type of finish is available for both traditional and synthetic surfaces and can be a great option for homeowners concerned about cracks.

Lace up and skip

When you envision a stucco finish on homes, it’s usually peak and crack. This type of execution is used in both commercial and residential buildings. Lace and Skip is rough. Imperfections are easy to hide due to the variations in texture. Tip and crack are either applied by hand or sprayed on and flattened with a trowel. First you apply the base coat, then you have the choice between a fine, medium or coarse pattern.

English

Looking to add a little aged sophistication to your home? Add this finish. The English finish is usually found on older buildings but is also sometimes used on newer construction. However, English can only be applied to traditional stucco.

Santa Barbara

Used only for traditional stucco applications, Santa Barbara uses fine sand particles to develop an adobe look. Colored sand can be used to create variations, but if you don’t want variations in the coating, you can paint Santa Barbara finishes. It’s also very smooth when finished, but this can result in very visible cracks.

cat face

The cat’s face features large areas with smoothed sections and evenly placed rough spots. The rough sections are called “inclusions” and vary in size and shape. Cat face is ideal both traditional and synthetic, and every homeowner can have it in their home. The best part is that your cat’s face finish can be completely different than your neighbor’s.

Smooth texture

Although a smooth texture is one of the most difficult finishes to achieve, it is becoming increasingly popular. The smooth texture can be colored, speckled, and customized to match the aesthetic of your home or office. Smooth surface finish works best with synthetic stucco, but can also be applied to fine traditional cement stucco.

worm

Also known as “plaster” and “swirl” finishes, worm was once popular but isn’t seen that often anymore. With large pieces of aggregate in the stucco, the trowel must be moved over the surface so that the aggregate leaves indentations in the stucco surface. Because of this, every home with a worm finish is different. However, it can be difficult to patch a worm when it cracks.

stucco application systems

1-layer Stucco Hard Coat System

A one-layer stucco system is sometimes referred to as a 2-layer system, which consists of a cement base. Foam is also applied.

3-layer stucco hard coat system

The common 3-coat system consists of a waterproof barrier, typically made from asphalt-fortified paper, then further layers of wire, a scratch and brown coat, and a top coat or primer. The cement primer is usually about 7/8 inch thick.

ETICS stucco systems

EIFS stands for “Exterior Insulation and Finish System”. These do not require hard layers and use thinner layers. ETICS assemblies were made to keep water out of the building. Hard coats, on the other hand, can absorb water.

Another type of ETICS would be those with an additional water management layer called a moisture or air barrier.

packaging

Stucco has numerous advantages, regardless of the type, surface and application system. Stucco siding reduces noise, is energy efficient and offers great versatility. Now that you know the different types of stucco and finishes available, you should be able to choose which type of stucco will work best for your home. Whatever type of style you want, there’s a piece for it.

Want to learn more about stucco paneling? Do you have questions about which type of stucco paneling is right for you? Fill out the contact form for more information!

The age old question of plaster vs stucco and is there a difference? I mean, they’re basically made out of the same materials. We’re here to smash all the rumors and let you know there’s a difference. You may have read the snapshot of this discussion in our monthly newsletter, but we wanted to break it down for you.

The simplest explanation is as follows: stucco is for the exterior and plaster is for the interior. You might say now, “Hey, these are pretty much the same materials, I mean, you apply them the same way, don’t you?” And yes, we apply them with the same methods and techniques because that’s the best is working.

The differences:

Stucco is a Portland and lime based product. We sometimes mix fiberglass strands into the mud for added strength and support. The fiberglass acts as further structural support to ensure cracks stay out and chunks don’t fall off. To add fun texture, different types of sand are used in specific amounts to ensure you enjoy every inch of your home. Before applying it we used a layer of metal lath which is something like a really really thick chicken wire. This helps hold the stucco to the wall by giving it something to hold on to. We’ve mostly used this when applying stucco to a smooth surface. When it dries it’s rock hard. (Pun intended, since it’s a form of rock.) If you visit historic buildings that are hundreds of years old and look at what they’re made of, you’ll see that it’s stucco. Stuck will stand the test of time and Mother Nature, no matter how evil she may be. While there is no such thing as a zero maintenance building, it is low maintenance and will last as long as you want it to if you take care of it.

Plaster is a plaster based product that will look wonderful in your home or office. Although slightly softer than stucco, it will last for more years than you can count. Instead of metal laths, we use a finer mesh as the backbone for the plaster when patching. Like stucco, sometimes the mud just needs something to stick to. Of course, you can buy pre-made plaster from different stores and brands, but it’s like grandma’s cookies: store-bought cookies have nothing to do with grandma’s homemade slices of heaven! A good freshly mixed mud lasts a lot longer and is easier to work with than the canned stuff that dries up and cracks in a year or two.

The Similarities:

If you live in a busy neighborhood or want some peace and quiet in your office, plaster and stucco is the best building material for deadening noise. This works because once dry, the walls form a very tight seal that doesn’t let those annoying noise waves in. The downside to this is that cell phone signals sometimes have a weakened signal. Don’t worry, it’s not enough to make a difference. You can still use your smartphone to make calls, send text messages and surf the Internet.

Both can be applied to be smoother than glass or textured to your wildest dreams. Just let us know what you want! We have samples available if you need ideas. As for the colors, both can be painted to match an existing color or a brand new color. The mud can also be colored.

At the end of the day, mixing plaster and plaster is like cooking the perfect breakfast pancake or baking the best brownies to sell church cake, you have to mix the ingredients just right. Too much and the mud will become too runny and fall right off your house. Too much and you’re guaranteed cracks.

I apologize for all the food references. This was written just before lunch and I really want cookies…

There are numerous ways to attractively decorate the interior or exterior of your home. Many people opt for a natural design and leave the building material (like brick or concrete) as the central design element. On the other hand, some may find that the aesthetic appeal of stucco works better on this plain concrete surface. So let’s look at the difference between stucco and concrete.

Piece

A wall with a stucco finish is said to be decorative because stucco has no support itself and is not intended to support the weight of the house. Typically, the material consists of a combination of an aggregate, water and a binder. Underneath the material there must be some other type of masonry-based structure, such as brick or wood or even cement. Typically, after the material is applied to the wall, it is given a coarse or rough finish.

concrete

Concrete, on the other hand, is an extremely strong and reliable material, made from a combination of cement and water, with additional stone aggregates added to the mix for strength. Typically, sand and gravel are used as the aggregate, although carefully measuring the water is the most important part of the process. Too much water weakens the cement’s strength, while too little prevents it from being easily shaped and applied.

Which one is better?

Although both materials can be applied to the surfaces of your home in an aesthetically pleasing way, one is better suited to the task than the other. Stucco is specifically designed to have the rough, almost rustic or urban decorative appeal of concrete without all the weight and difficulty of application.

Concrete, on the other hand, is used almost exclusively for functional purposes, such as B. Determining the structural framework of a house. Concrete is usually placed in places that need to withstand wear and tear and heavy loads.

Stucco is typically used in vertical applications, e.g. B. for walls and borders. Concrete, on the other hand, is much tougher and heavier and is typically used to fill cracks or provide horizontal support. These two materials are regularly used in construction projects and play different roles in bringing a building together.

Stucco creates a beautiful finish that brings a Mediterranean look to any home. However, stucco is more than just aesthetically pleasing – it is known for being hard wearing and strong.

Typically found in the Deep South and other high humidity areas, stucco has to do two things: keep out water and allow the wall to breathe by releasing water vapor that has been trapped in the exterior wall system.

All too often, however, there are defects in the form of rotten wood on the outer walls – a problem that could have been prevented if the stucco work had been carried out professionally. So how can this costly problem be solved? Let’s start with the basics.

What is stucco?

Stucco has been around for centuries. The right mix of Portland cement, lime, sand, and water provides a durable, long-lasting exterior finish for your home. It can be mixed with paint to create a solid color or painted after installation. With proper care, stucco will last more than 50 years.

Isn’t stucco waterproof?

Because stucco is a masonry product, it is often assumed that it is already waterproof. However, this is not entirely true – stucco is in fact permeable and will let some water through.

Impregnating a stucco surface requires a multi-step process that offers high resistance to water penetration while allowing easy escape of water vapor.

How to waterproof stucco

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Expert advice on stucco paneling including pros and cons with helpful diagram and photos of stucco wall construction.

Stucco is a plaster-like siding popular as a siding material for many styles of homes, from Southwestern and European styles to contemporary.

Because stucco is essentially concrete, it has several significant advantages over cladding materials such as wood. First, it’s tough and durable – with proper maintenance, it will last 50 years or more. And it’s seamless, so the weather doesn’t have cracks and crevices to penetrate. Because it is a form of masonry, it is not susceptible to damage from fire, rot, or insects, and is good at insulating sound.

On the other hand, stucco can be brittle and as a result can crack when the house is set or during earthquakes. However, stucco is now formulated with epoxy, making it more elastic and therefore less prone to breakage. If it cracks, it can be repaired as per How to Fix Stucco article.

Another disadvantage is that in extremely rainy regions, water can seep into the stucco and eventually penetrate walls. With any stucco installation, proper masking is an absolute must to prevent damage to the interior of the wall. The application must ensure that water penetrating through the material is properly drained.

Check what local contractors recommend before painting stucco. If painting is an option, choose a 100 percent acrylic latex paint specifically formulated for plaster surfaces. See also How to Paint Stucco.

Traditional stucco construction

Traditional stucco is made from a mixture of Portland cement, fine sand, water and hydrated lime. Also, it may contain acrylic or fiberglass additives that improve its strength and flexibility.

It is applied wet in three coats: a base coat called the “scratch coat”, a second “brown coat” and a final “top coat”.

After applying the first layer, a notched trowel is used to “scratch” the surface with horizontal grooves so that the next brown layer has some grip. Then comes the brown coat and finally the top coat.

Before each subsequent coat is applied, the previous one is allowed to dry—usually a day or two before applying the brown coat and a week or two before applying the top coat. In hot weather, each coat is regularly lightly sprayed with water to allow it to cure slowly and evenly – drying too quickly will weaken it. And the last layer may crack due to shrinkage if not hardened slowly.

Stucco is applied to a wire mesh base that holds it in place and helps prevent cracking. The diagram above shows how an older stucco wall is built – note how this differs from the newer construction shown in the photos below. In the older style, a chicken-wire-like mesh called “stucco netting” is fastened over horizontal wooden lath spacers to allow the stucco to squeeze and grab into pockets.

In newer stucco construction, a much heavier, three-dimensional wire lath is nailed, screwed, or stapled directly to the studs under the base of the weather barrier and sheathing. Contemporary forms of wire slats include woven wire slats, welded wire slats, and expanded metal slats.

Because stucco is porous, the substrate—usually plywood or OSB—must have at least one layer of weather-resistant, vapor-permeable, asphalt-impregnated building paper (“felt”) or plastic-based building envelope or stucco envelope. This barrier must repel weather and water but allow vapor to escape. In many cases two coats are used as the stucco will stick to the top coat making it less effective. A “weep screed” at the foundation line allows water to drain away.

The first two coats can be troweled or sprayed onto the wall. The final coat is typically applied to the surface and given one of many possible textures, from smooth to sandy or irregular.

Instead of painting stucco, pigment is usually mixed into the final layer. A popular option is to use an acrylic based finish as the final coat. Because acrylic surfaces are resilient, they are much less likely to crack and also help minimize moisture penetration into the stucco.

Stucco can also be applied to properly primed solid masonry surfaces such as cinder block, brick, or older stucco. However, to ensure adhesion, it should not be applied to a painted surface without first sandblasting.

Thin-layer stucco systems

Modern synthetic stucco can be applied as a base coat and a top coat that is thinner and has a shorter application life than traditional stucco – closer to a week than two.

The basis for this system is similar to that described above: wire mesh over weather-resistant, vapor-permeable construction paper. However, the composition of the material is different. Mixed with just water and sand, the base coat contains chopped fiberglass and acrylic polymers to make it stronger.

The final coating is typically a colored elastomeric formula mixed with a fine aggregate. The result is a smooth, water-resistant surface that is less prone to cracking than ordinary stucco. It usually looks a bit more uniform in color as well.

One downside is that since it’s thinner than traditional stucco, it’s more easily damaged. Another reason is that it takes longer to dry when it’s soaked. Last but not least, these systems are proprietary and must be used exactly to specification or the warranty may be void.

External Insulation and Finishing Systems (EIFS)

Known to professionals as EIFS, short for Exterior Insulation and Finishing System, this form of synthetic stucco differs from traditional stucco. With ETICS, the panels are covered with an acrylic coating that looks like plaster. The panels can be foam or fiber cement board siding (foam has much higher insulation values). The polymers are generally sprayed onto the panels.

ETICS systems have a reputation for having moisture-related problems, mainly due to improper application. Basically, water can get trapped in the walls and cause rot and mold if it is not properly secured by a membrane, connector and proper drainage system. Before you decide on an ETICS system, do your homework! Professional and quality installation is imperative.

cost of stucco

Stucco is not as expensive as high quality cedar siding, but costs significantly more than vinyl or fiber cement siding. The only way to really determine the cost is to get an estimate, but expect it will likely cost between $6 and $11 per square foot for materials and labor.

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