New Stucco Construction:
I love the warm, classic feel of a timeless new stucco construction facade. This ancient flooring material was used in many of the largest and oldest empires in the world to present a distinctive exterior appearance. Today, it is a preferred flooring option for its durability, versatility, and elegant shade availability.
If you’re considering new stucco construction services Los Angeles for your new home, stucco has both advantages and disadvantages. Be sure to consult your local expert for building tips and recommendations based on your specific climate. You can also talk to a designer who has experience with stucco types and textures before hiring a professional to begin the installation. If you’re ready to get your feet wet, read on to learn more about stucco flooring essentials and decide which designer finish best complements the style of your personal home.
What is stucco?
Stucco is a facing material made primarily of Portland cement, sand, lime, and water. It is applied in three coats over a slatted base for a strong, smooth and seamless home exterior.
Traditional x Synthetic
Traditional stucco includes sand, lime, water, and usually cement; Fiberglass and acrylics can be added to increase durability. Cement-based stucco is quite hard and must be applied over a stable lattice base, called a batten, to prevent cracking. It is sturdy, flexible, and easy to maintain.
Synthetic stucco is relatively new to the market. This type does not add cement or lime, but an acrylic resin, which makes it resistant to moisture and water damage. It is often applied to foam board rather than mesh and is more reliable overall. Acrylic resin allows greater movement, which makes the liner more resistant to cracking and breaking. This type is also less expensive than traditional stucco.
Cat Head
A cat face finish is perfect for pet owners who want a distinctive, light, and airy look. There are large, smooth areas with lots of small, rough patches (called “inclusions”) spread evenly throughout. This look can be achieved with traditional or synthetic plaster but requires two coats of finish. The final touches are done by hand, so the process is a bit of a pain.
Dash
The finish of the board is obtained by spraying traditional or synthetic stucco in a heavy, medium, or light volume. As it results in a rough and uneven finish, the panel stucco can be easily repaired if it is cracked or broken.
English
It is less common in modern homes and tends to give your structure a more vintage look. It usually lends itself to repairs and corrections if necessary.
Float or Sand
Perhaps the most common design, the floating or sanded finish, is often found in commercial buildings; very few homes have this type of finish. However, it can be applied with traditional or synthetic stucco and only requires one coat. If you’re looking for something quick and easy, a simple floating stucco or sand project will give you the best value.
Lace and Skip
When you think of stucco, a lace and heel finish is probably the first image that comes to mind. This indulgent texture easily hides imperfections and is easy to correct. It is applied in two coats, including a base and a textured coat. Traditional is best for lace and heels to give the lining maximum depth, but synthetic can also be used.
Smooth Texture
Smooth textured finishes are the hardest to achieve but look very elegant when applied professionally. It’s easy to clean and can include a mix of colors to create a stained facade. It usually includes a thin cement base, but can also be made with a synthetic finish. It usually requires thin or ultrafine plaster, but the medium can work too. Caution: This finish is not easy to repair and is more prone to chipping or cracking.
Santa Barbara
A Santa Barbara finish is similar to a smooth finish but uses finer sand particles to create its distinctive look. Its appearance is often uneven to look natural and resembles adobe houses. It is usually created with traditional stucco and can be difficult to apply and repair.
Worm
An endless finish includes larger pieces of aggregate mixed with the plaster that create small grooves in the texture of the spread plaster. It is quite original and quite laborious to install as it is applied entirely by hand.
Advantages:
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, stucco siding has many popular benefits.
Energy Efficiency
Stucco is recognized for its excellent energy efficiency. By forming what is essentially a layer of concrete to protect the house, stucco requires less energy and energy to keep fresh air inside during the hot summer months and block out cold winds during the winter. ‘Cold winter.
Noise Reduction
Thick stucco walls are not only excellent insulators against temperature extremes, but they also block much of the sound transmission. This makes them especially popular in cities and homes near heavy traffic or busy areas.
Durability and Longevity
A major benefit of stucco siding is its resistance to rot, mold, mildew, and invading insects. It is extremely durable against natural causes including high winds and ice storms. It is also fire resistant and will protect your home in the event of a forest fire. Due to its superior durability, stucco siding usually carries a minimum warranty of 15 to 20 years.
Low Maintenance
Stucco is simple and easy to maintain; can be cleaned with water and simple household cleaning products. Be sure to regularly check for cracks and tears and address problem areas as soon as possible to prevent moisture from entering your home and causing damage.
The most common problem with stucco is the appearance of cracks. Although rare, these issues should be resolved immediately. They can be easily filled with a flexible external putty and leveled with a spatula. You can also use a stucco patch to repair your siding. You may want to hire a professional to repair any rips so you don’t risk sacrificing the siding’s appearance. Repair costs depend on the extent and severity of the crack but typically cost $1 to $2 per linear foot with a one-time service charge of $50 to $200.
Disadvantages:
While there are many advantages to applying stucco flooring, there are some disadvantages to consider when making your decision.
Requires Professional Installation
For a smooth, even appearance, homeowners are recommended to hire an experienced professional for installation. A stucco installation professional can charge between $8,500 and $16,088, a significant portion of any project’s budget. New Stucco construction services Los Angeles has very cheap prices. You just type the best new stucco construction near me and get their services. However, you will save money on future repairs by making sure your siding is installed correctly to seal in moisture and maintain its effectiveness.
High Initial Cost
When considering the cost factor, stucco is often more expensive than other types of siding. This is mainly due to installation and labor costs; the material itself is really very affordable. Stucco siding can cost anywhere from $5 to $9.58 per square foot installed. However, it is important to note that stucco siding requires little upkeep and maintenance costs and has a longer lifespan than other types of siding. All things considered, stucco siding can pay off over time if you incur lower energy bills and lower repair costs and replacement costs.
Climate Concerns
A strip of Spanish-style architectural building facades with white stucco facades and green awnings above the windows.
Although stucco cladding is ideal for sunny, moderate, hot, and dry climates, some climates are not suitable for this type of facade: areas of high humidity and humid tropical locations are not suitable. While stucco is an excellent water repellent, it has its limitations. The underlying wood layers and internal structures of the house can start to get damp and deteriorate over time.
Also, climates prone to soil changes are not suitable for stucco cladding. Consistently wet soil, rocky areas, and earthquake-prone regions can cause your foundation to shift and settle. Stucco is not flexible and is more likely to break or crack with the mobile base.
Colors are not easy to Change after Installation
You’ll find many color options available, but once stucco is applied to your home. It can be nearly impossible to change the color later on. Painting over it can sometimes seal in moisture and make the stucco less breathable. You will also need to sand it down before you decide to cover the stucco.
Never go with the stucco style!
Whether you choose a modern home with a smooth texture or a Southwestern farmhouse with a lace and heel finish, stucco construction offers a unique charm that is inclusive and inviting. Personally, I like neutral or speckled stucco siding with a smooth or lightly textured finish that draws attention to expressive home details like colored finishes or exposed beams that add a touch of intrigue. With a variety of finish options and virtually endless color possibilities, stucco cladding can be combined with any aesthetic for a touch of practicality and elegance.