Stucco has been around since ancient Greek and Roman times, when they would use gypsum, marble dust, and glue to build homes and create walls for fresco paintings. The material is still being used today for a strong and durable home siding material; however, the makings for stucco have changed considerably, adding to the strength of the material. But even though stucco has been used for hundreds of years and is still a popular choice for Winnipeg homes today, there are both advantages and disadvantages to the material.
Whether you’re resurfacing your entire home, looking for stucco repairs, or if you’re in need of stucco painting, the more you know about the material the better. At Integrity Painting, we have been providing the residents of Winnipeg with high-quality stucco and painting services since 1992. Over the 28 years of working with stucco, applying original stucco, making repairs, or painting it, we have learned what it takes to use it correctly, ensuring that your home is protected and looks great. Our team of experienced, skilled, and knowledgeable contractors can assure you that we’ll take great care of your home. Using only the best materials and tools to complete every job, you can expect a beautiful finished project. Contact Integrity Painting today for a free estimate.
Advantages of Stucco
Durable
Stucco is one of the strongest home siding materials available. It is fire resistant — a one-inch layer of stucco on your home can add a one-hour fire rating to the wall. It is also resistant to rot, mould, impact, and termite infestations. Stucco is also capable of withstanding the harsh weather conditions of Winnipeg, including extreme temperatures.
Sustainable
Stucco is sustainable for a variety of reasons. Stucco can often be used from locally sourced, sustainable ingredients, making it easier to create the mix. With today’s technology, stucco is often applied over a foam insulation, which creates a weather-proof seal. This helps to keep heat inside during the cold Winnipeg winters and works to keep the house cool during the summer, reducing energy costs. In addition, the colour you choose for your home is mixed into the material rather than painted onto the surface, reducing the need for initial painting materials and costs. Homeowners can, however, repaint the stucco when necessary.
Sound Resistant
If your home is next to noisy neighbours, a busy street, or if you simply like a quiet night’s sleep, stucco can help reduce the noise that you hear from inside the home. Sound resistance may be a smaller benefit than durability or sustainability, but it can definitely come in handy.
Aesthetic
While the look of stucco comes down to personal preference, stucco is a popular choice for many Winnipeg homeowners due to the seamless look it creates. Rather than the horizontal or vertical lines that typical wood or vinyl siding creates, stucco creates a single surface that gives homes a classic, timeless look.
Disadvantages of Stucco
Labor
Installing original stucco requires the knowledge, skill, and tools of a professional stucco contractor. When there are minor cracks or chips in older stucco, a homeowner may be able to make stucco repairs on their own. We discussed the stucco repair process in a previous blog. However, in the case of making repairs, it is essential that the job is done correctly to prevent issues with moisture from the downspout. In the case of a brand new installation, the job definitely calls for a professional.
Porosity
Stucco is a porous material, meaning that water more easily permeates the surface, especially when it’s not correctly or thoroughly sealed and properly maintained. When water seeps through the surface, it can cause damage to the materials below and can result in more costly repairs. It also collects dirt and absorbs stains more easily, requiring regular maintenance to ensure it looks its best.
Inflexible
Traditional stucco is slightly more prone to cracking in regions where the soil settles or shifts. However, modern stucco includes additional polymers to create a more sturdy material.
Maintenance Requirements For Stucco
Overall, stucco is a fairly maintenance-free siding material. However, to protect your investment, homeowners should have a professional stucco company inspect and clean the surface. Because stucco is a porous material, any cracks that do form should be repaired as quickly as possible. Stucco may also need to be cleaned once a year to prevent mould or mildew from growing. Regular inspections will prevent minor problems from becoming worse, reducing the risk of costly repairs.
If you’re looking to buy a house, the type of siding is an important factor to consider. There are several benefits to stucco, but it’s always a good idea to be aware of the disadvantages of the material as well. If you currently own a stucco home and are looking for stucco painters or repair professionals, contact the team at Integrity Painting. We offer both stucco painting and stucco repairs throughout the Winnipeg area, as well as interior and exterior painting for wood or vinyl siding.
Whatever your needs are, the expertise of a professional stucco contractor will ensure that your home is protected and looks amazing. We are passionate about providing exceptional service and customer support throughout the process. Just like our name suggests, we always provide our services with integrity, giving each customer peace of mind and confidence knowing that we will complete each job with dedication, honesty, and transparency. Schedule a free estimate with Integrity Painting today.
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