The Pros and Cons of Stucco

The Pros and Cons of Stucco

March 5, 2020

As you search for your new home, there are a lot of issues you’re going to want to take into consideration when determining whether or not the house is right for you. One of many considerations will be the kind of materials used for the exterior of the property. If, for example, you’re considering purchasing a home that has a stucco exterior, you should know a bit about stucco as a material and the advantages and disadvantages associated with the use of that material.

With this in mind, here’s a quick overview of some of the biggest pros and cons that come with owning a stucco home.

Advantages

Here are a few examples of some of the biggest exterior stucco benefits in Bluffton, SC:

  • Versatile: Stucco is a very versatile material. You can customize its appearance by applying it smooth, rough or in a pattern. You can also add various decorative features to allow for a more customized appearance. You can even add color into the mixture, which will help you complement the home’s existing exterior color scheme.
  • Durable: Stucco is an extremely durable material. You can expect it to last for a long time if you keep it well maintained.
  • Cost effective: Considering the durability and versatility you get out of stucco, you can rest assured you’ll get your money’s worth from this material. It’s a popular building material because it is so highly cost effective.
  • Fire resistance: Stucco is a fire-resistant material, which means it can be added to just about any surface, whether it’s brick, wood or something else. A single-inch stucco layer on a building can add a one-hour fire rating to a wall, which can make all the difference in the world in a fire situation.

Disadvantages

As with any type of building material, there are a few drawbacks associated with the use of stucco on building exteriors. Here are a few examples:

  • Moisture: Stucco does not do well in wet environments, because it can easily become oversaturated due to its porous nature. This could result in moisture getting behind the stucco and compromising the structural integrity of wood or other building materials used for the home.
  • Brittle: While stucco does have plenty of durability, you should know it can be rather brittle. If you have ground that’s prone to shifting with the seasons or due to earthquakes, stucco might not be your best bet, as it will be much more likely to see some significant cracks.
  • Relatively expensive: Stucco can be very cost-effective as an alternative siding, but it should be noted that it is more expensive than vinyl siding, fiber-based cement and a few other types of products.
  • Weaknesses: Stucco is vulnerable to flying debris, lawn equipment and even some types of birds, who are attracted to the material and might peck holes in it.

For more information about the various pros and cons associated with the use of stucco, contact Spring Construction today. We’d be happy to offer more exterior stucco information in Bluffton, SC.

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