Frequently Asked Questions

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Stucco is a great choice for the exterior of your home or business. From a design standpoint, you can't beat the smooth, traditional appearance it gives. Beyond looks, stucco's durability makes it long lasting, easy to maintain, and is naturally resistant to fire.

Small hairline stucco cracks, usually about 1/16 of an inch wide or smaller, are normal. Although small and not a huge cause for concern, these stucco cracks should be repaired sooner rather than later with routine maintenance. However, other cracks such as spider cracking, foam trim cracks, diagonal cracking, etc. are typically more of a concern and should be repaired ASAP. Our stucco contractors can identify the cracks on your home and provide guidance on how the cracks should be repaired. 

Stucco is a very durable finishing material - it's made of a natural material consisting of an aggregate, a binder, and water. If applied correctly, the typical life span of stucco is 50-80 years. In addition to being known for its durability, when compared to other siding materials, it also has the lowest annual cost for maintenance or upkeep. 

One of the significant advantages of stucco is its low maintenance requirement. However, to ensure that it remains in good condition, periodic inspections are necessary. You should look for signs of cracks or damage, which may require repair. 

When repairing stucco, the first step is to identify the cause of the issue, such as settling or shifting the foundation. You should then clean and prep the damaged area before applying a stucco patch, ensuring that you match the existing texture and color as closely as possible.

To maintain your stucco’s appearance, occasional power washing can help remove dirt and grime. However, it’s essential to use a low-pressure setting to avoid causing any damage to the stucco. Finally, regular repainting or resealing can help prolong your stucco’s lifespan and keep it looking fresh.

There are two main types of stucco regularly used today: traditional and synthetic. 

Traditional stucco comprises three layers of cement mixture, often referred to as a three-coat system. The mixture includes cement, water, sand, and sometimes lime, which helps with workability and curing. Traditional stucco has a reputation for its breathability and strength.

Synthetic stucco, also known as exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS), is a lightweight, multi-layered insulation system that first gained popularity in the 1960s. Synthetic stucco is more energy-efficient and flexible than traditional stucco, leading to a reduction in cracking. However, it’s essential to ensure that the installation of synthetic stucco includes effective moisture management systems to avoid potential water damage issues.

Sun State Stucco uses only the highest-quality materials for all of our Stucco projects. Some of our suppliers are Dryvit, SelectFLex, Western Blended Products, Parex USA etc. 

We recommend against re-stuccoing your home without a professional. Stuccoing your home is not a DIY project. If you have existing stucco on your home, it is very difficult to get the same depth, finish, and contour as the original coat. If you want to change the exterior finish, we recommend redoing the stucco on your entire home. Please contact our team to get started.

Yes! Wood and brick do require different stucco application methods. When stucco is applied directly to wood or other non-masonry finishes, it requires a support structure known as a lath, to keep it in place. Since stucco and brick are both masonry products, stucco can (in most cases) be applied directly to brick.