Buyer Beware: Not All Stucco Homes are Created Equal

Consideration should be given to purchasing a stucco-exterior house

TV programs on home searching are undoubtedly something you’ve seen or heard about. The real estate agent and prospective purchasers consider the home’s location, the number of beds and bathrooms, and interior color schemes. The siding of the house, however, draws little attention. This worries me as a contractor since siding plays a crucial role in curb appeal and serves to protect a property from the weather. A lot of thought must go into stucco siding. You should read this information!

Stucco installation

The dependability of stucco dramatically relies on how it was put, as is the case with every home improvement material. Since stucco has several layers, there are numerous possibilities for a novice builder to utilize the material well. Mistaken flashing is among the most frequent installation mistakes. This has the effect of allowing for water ingress, which may lead to costly damage.

 

Cracking may happen if the sand used to create the stucco is mixed with the soil near the home. While cracking can be fixed, the homeowner is usually the one who must pay the bill. Many installation issues don’t manifest themselves for several years, making the situation even more problematic.

 

Consider carefully who you hire to work on the stucco because it calls for a customized approach.

Water damage

Stucco must be maintained free of moisture to keep its integrity. Install gutters and downspouts must be installed so that water is directed away from the house. Doors and windows must be sealed firmly to prevent water from penetrating the stucco. Thus extra care must be taken to guarantee this.

Paint color commitment

Considering the long lifespan of stucco—more than 50 years—before choosing it for your home requires foresight. Sandblasting the stucco is needed before painting it a new color. If you skip this step, moisture problems may develop later.

Stucco siding marketability

For many of the aforementioned reasons, buyers in humid or wet climates are frequently hesitant to commit to a home with stucco siding. As a result, homes with stucco siding often stay on the market longer than those with other types of siding. This is why it’s crucial to have a trustworthy stucco inspector collaborating with your real estate agent to ensure you steer clear of hefty repair costs in the future.