You may love the look of stucco, but is it really the right material for your remodel or new build project? Burbach Companies has experience with both stucco repairs and installation, and we’re here to help you decide if stucco is right for you.

What Stucco is Made Of

Stucco is a cement mixture that is applied to the exterior of a building. Modern stucco siding consists of Portland cement, sand, water, and lime or gypsum. A thin coat of stucco plaster can be applied to exterior surfaces such as adobe, brick, cinder block, concrete, metal, and expanded metal lath. 

How Stucco is Applied

For stucco to perform at its best, there is a particular process to follow when it’s applied. When you check on the progress of your renovation or new-build stucco installation, look for the following:

  • Exterior vapor barrier
  • Metal lath (wire mesh to which stucco can adhere)
  • Layer(s) of stucco

Following each layer of stucco is a curing and drying period. After a layer has cured, it can be smoothed, textured, or sealed with a finish coat.

Good Climates for Stucco

If you live in Southern Utah or other dry climates, you probably see a lot of stucco on homes and commercial buildings. Stucco performs best in these dry climates so it doesn’t get waterlogged. Although it doesn’t do well in areas that get a lot of moisture, it can withstand both hot and cold temperatures. This makes stucco a good choice for many parts of Utah, as it’s a semi-arid state with low humidity.

Benefits of Stucco Siding

Many homeowners love stucco for its versatility and how well it protects their home’s exterior from the elements. Other benefits of stucco siding include the following:

Customizable

When it comes to color and texture, stucco is highly customizable. The plaster can be applied in thin or thick layers for the desired texture, including swirls and shapes that accent a home’s overall architectural details. It pairs well with other siding materials or shines when used alone.

Color is added to the stucco base before it’s plastered on the structure, allowing for lots of options. Since Portland cement is typically white, it takes powdered pigment well. Variations in color and texture can give a building’s exterior the look of brick, metal, stone, or wood.

Insulation

Stucco works well in dry, hot climates as another layer of insulation to keep the heat out and the cool air in. Conversely, in cold climates, it does the reverse well. It can also act as an insulator against sound.

Long-Lasting

When applied correctly by the professionals such as the team at Burbach Exteriors, stucco can last up to 50 years. 

Low Maintenance

While you do need to care for your exterior stucco to promote its lifespan, it’s not too much work. It usually only requires an annual cleaning, which can be done with a brush and a hose. If you notice any cracks or chips, getting them repaired as soon as possible can prevent any further, more complicated damage. Stucco can also be sealed to prolong its life and support its performance.

Fire Resistant

Stucco is a fire-resistant material, with a one-inch application offering a one-hour firewall rating. A thin, one-inch layer of stucco can block fire from spreading from one side of a wall to the other for up to one hour. 

Pest Resistant

Like any well-installed siding material, stucco is pest-resistant. It provides a strong barrier against bugs and critters that may otherwise get to your wood framing.

What Else You Should Know About Stucco

Burbach Companies specializes in stucco repair, renovation, and installation in Salt Lake City. Although stucco is practical and versatile, it can be prone to cracks or chips in our ever-fluctuating climate of Nothern Utah. When installed and maintained correctly, stucco siding can increase curb appeal, energy efficiency, and property value.

 

CONTACT BURBACH COMPANIES TODAY

801-683-2122

For design consultations, contact Burbach Companies. We service homes along the Wasatch Front from Utah to Weber Counties.