Stucco – What is it, why choose it, and how to properly maintain it?

Does stucco still have a place in renovations? How should it be maintained and repaired? Can it be used indoors? Once very popular, this textured coating seems to be making a comeback, particularly due to its insulating and aesthetic qualities. However, it also raises questions: how should it be properly applied? What are its advantages and limitations? And most importantly, how can it be maintained to ensure its longevity?

In this article, we explore everything you need to know about stucco, from choosing materials to application, as well as maintenance and methods for removing it when it's time to modernize a space.

What should you know about exterior stucco siding?

Source: Canva

What is stucco: the cement-based siding material?

Traditional stucco consists of a precise blend of Portland cement, sand, lime, and water that creates a durable exterior coating. This versatile material dates back centuries and remains the second most popular siding choice in North America, used in nearly 25% of new home construction.

The application process involves multiple layers built up to approximately one inch in thickness. Modern stucco comes in two main varieties: the classic three-coat system and the streamlined one-coat system, also known as a two-coat application.

Builders can apply stucco over various surfaces including wood frames, brick, and concrete blocks. The material hardens as it dries, forming a solid, seamless finish that can be textured or smooth according to design preferences.

The Advantages of Stucco

Acrylic stucco, which is composed of a mixture of Portland cement, sand, and water, has an impressive number of advantages. First, let’s highlight its insulating properties which help make it an effective air barrier. It’s also recognized for its great longevity since stucco, this modern form of siding, has an estimated service life of about 25 years, which is quite impressive.

Moreover, it is easy to recognize that this textured material has a very attractive aesthetic appearance which gives a unique look to the exterior walls of a home. It is also worth noting that this material can be painted if you so wish, but is available already in a wide range of colours.

Another noteworthy advantage is that modern stucco is a highly fire-resistant form of siding. This aspect makes it very practical as it will limit the spread of fire in the event that a neighbour’s house catches fire.

It is impossible to ignore the excellent energy performance that stucco has had for houses for centuries. It will effectively eliminate thermal bridges and will create a surface that is airtight. Keep reading for some insight into the disadvantages of stucco.

The Disadvantages of Stucco

Unfortunately, stucco is a material sensitive to temperature variations. As such, it may require repairs over time. Additionally, note that stucco is quite sensitive to impacts, so it may chip. However, it is possible to easily touch up and restore the cladding to its original condition in no time.

How is stucco applied?

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First, do not neglect the preliminary step of cleaning the work surface before beginning. It will also be necessary to thoroughly wet the surface to be covered 12 to 24 hours before starting the work and moisten it just before starting the application.

To ensure the quality of the stucco used in your renovation work, keep this product dry at all times. For the mixture preparation, combine 4 to 4.5 litres of water for a 22.7 kg bag in a container until a homogeneous mixture is achieved. The integration of dry ingredients with the water should be done gradually using a drill equipped with a mixer.

At this stage, you can colour your stucco if desired by adding colouring pigments to the mixture. In fact, note that the range of available colours is quite extensive. Once the mixture is ready, do not waste time before using it, as it will only be usable for a maximum of about two hours.

As Eric Beaudin, mason and cement applicator, attests, stucco is applied to a metal lath. Since it is pre-covered with one or two layers of mortar, the stucco can adhere securely to the surface.

How to repair and maintain an exterior stucco coating?

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In order to allow stucco to withstand the passage of time with dignity, it is necessary to protect it from moisture. Dirt that may accumulate on the surface of the coating can be cleaned with clear water, which is a significant advantage.

If small cracks appear on the exterior stucco coating, it is imperative to carry out the necessary repairs quickly. This will prevent water infiltration from causing major damage.

To ensure the strength of your stucco coating, two layers of the mixture must be applied, which should create a layer about 1 inch thick. However, it is not recommended to exceed this thickness, as it may cause the surface of the coating to crack.

The first layer should be applied with a steel trowel. To achieve a rough surface and ensure the adhesion of the second layer, use a notched trowel on the surface of the coating. After the first layer has completely dried (for 24 hours), it should be moistened.

The next step is to apply the second layer with a finishing trowel, a sponge, or a brush to create the desired texture on the coating. Once the stucco is completely dry, it is imperative to slightly moisten it over the next three days.

In conclusion, you should check that water drainage is functioning properly and that air circulates appropriately behind the insulation.

The Texture of Decorative Stucco for the Interior

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We all have horror visions of stalactite ceilings like those found in 1970s bungalows. Impractical and completely outdated, these rather exaggerated examples contributed to the bad reputation of stucco used inside homes.

However, it is indeed possible to create interesting finishes with this product, opting for softer textures inspired by homes in the southern United States or the Greek islands! See in the example below how stucco can adapt beautifully to a décor that is far from being tacky.

You will need a decorative stucco coating designed for indoor use. The grainy effect of interior decorative stucco is finer than exterior stucco.

You will need:

• A finishing trowel

• A scraper

• Decorative stucco coating

Apply a first layer, ensuring it is not too thick. Use the scraper to take the stucco and apply it to the wall, and use the finishing trowel to spread it. Decorative stucco dries faster than exterior stucco, typically between one and two hours. Apply another layer following the same process, and you'll have an interior decorative stucco wall!

How do you paint stucco?

Want to paint your stucco? Check out our article to learn which products to use for exterior painting.

FAQ

How to remove stucco from the ceiling?

Protect the room, then spray a little warm water on the stucco to soften it. Next, gently scrape with a putty knife or scraper. Work in small sections to avoid damaging the surface beneath. Once finished, lightly sand, apply a primer, and finish with your choice of topcoat.

How to remove stucco from a wall?

Start by covering the furniture and floor, then dampen the stucco with a water sprayer to ease removal. Scrape with a putty knife, working carefully to avoid damaging the wall. Once the texture is removed, sand the surface, apply a primer, and repaint or apply another coating according to your preferences.

Stucco or stucco: the definitions

In French, the term "stuc" is the most commonly used, especially to describe a decorative coating applied to exterior walls. However, "stucco" is also frequently used, particularly in Canada and other French-speaking regions, to refer to the same material. While "stuc" is more common in France and parts of Europe, "stucco" is widely recognized and understood, especially in the context of renovations and building materials.