Damaged facade of a building with cracked stucco and hole in the exterior wall

Stucco is a commonly used term in commercial and industrial painting. But have you ever found yourself wondering, “what is stucco?” If so, you’re not alone.

We’re breaking down what stucco is and the different kinds so that you know exactly what it is.

What is Stucco?

Stucco is a cement-based coating that is used in many building’s exteriors. On a rare occasion, you may even find stucco on the interior of a building.

Because stucco is a cost-effective, weather-resistant finish, many building owners and homeowners choose to use it for their exterior finishes. It has many benefits, including:

  • Affordable cost
  • Durable in most weather conditions
  • Fire-resistant finish
  • Reduces noise from outside

Types of Stucco

When choosing a stucco application you have two options to consider, each with their own unique benefits.

Traditional Stucco

Traditional stucco is a mixture of Portland cement, sand, lime, and water that is applied over a mesh base on the side of a building. While stucco previously required three coats to apply, one and two coat stucco systems are becoming more popular.

It’s rare for a new building to use traditional stucco. Typically, it is found in older buildings and only used in the repair of those buildings.

Despite traditional stucco’s reputation for being a durable, weather-resistant coating, stucco can easily crack, so it’s important to check for signs often and contact a professional immediately if you notice changes. Plus, traditional stucco may react to the weather while drying, causing some discoloration, making it important to ensure a proper application.

EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish System)

EIFS, often referred to as synthetic stucco, is another option for your exterior texturing. While similar to stucco, EIFS includes an insulation layer, making it a slightly softer surface.

While EIFS is considered to be more crack-resistant than traditional stucco, it does have a higher risk of moisture getting into your finishes. If you have EIFS, it’s important to keep an eye out for signs of water damage.

There are many brands of EIFS, with the most popular being Dryvit, Sto, Omega, and Senergy.

Matching Your Stucco

No matter what stucco system you use, the most important thing to consider is how to match it should you ever need a repair. While it’s hard to get an exact match in color and texture when painting over a stucco repair, a trained professional can help ensure a similar finish by working to match the texture and paint color.

Consulting aN Expert

While there are multiple options for your building’s exteriors, stucco is a cost-effective option used on many buildings.

If you suspect your building has stucco or EIFS finishes and need help with a repair, contact us today. We can help ensure a clean finish and accurate repair.