Adding a stucco finish to a house costs about $6 to $9 per square foot on average. Many contractors charge more or less depending on the job’s complexity. It is important to understand the stucco process to appreciate its value and price tag.
What is stucco over siding?
Stucco over siding is a common practice. The stucco is installed over a pre-existing masonry, wood, or alternative exterior. The siding must be prepped to get the stucco to adhere and avoid water damage to the underlying surface.
Prepping siding for stucco application involves:
- Weather barrier for moisture protection
- Heavy gauge wire system or lath to enhance the surface area and anchor the stucco
- Mesh overlay for crack protection
- Quality finish coat
If these stucco siding components are not installed correctly, the stucco may crack or break. The underlying siding can also fail. A professional installer should evaluate the original siding before stucco application to ensure a long-lasting finish.
Ask a professional about the materials used for their stucco application. Today’s quality material options can increase the life of your stucco and decrease the need for maintenance.
Stucco vs. Siding
Stucco is an exterior finish made from cement, sand, and limestone. It is most common in the Southwestern regions of the United States and traditionally has a Mediterranean feel. Because of its versatility in color and texture, stucco can fit into nearly any style of architecture including contemporary homes. It is a seamless, sleek, and stylish design that fits many styles.
Siding is typically considered to be pieces of weather cladding attached to a home to protect it from the elements. It is often made of wood, cement board, vinyl, metal, or other composites. Some people consider stucco to be another type of siding. However, traditional siding is usually made of long planks of vertical or horizontal material, layered to prevent moisture penetration.
The advantages of stucco include:
- Resists fire
- Resists moisture
- Low maintenance
- Low cost over time
- Energy-efficient
- Attractive
- Long-lasting (up to 80+ years!)
The disadvantages of stucco include:
- Susceptible to cracking
- Porous
- High initial cost
- Success relies heavily on installation and foundation stability
Most people who opt for stucco appreciate the appearance and the longevity of an exterior finish made to last.
How does stucco affect my home value?
Stucco does not add or subtract nominal value from your home. However, many people like the appearance of a well-kept stucco finish. This can increase the home’s salability. Of course, cracked or broken stucco can also lessen the value of a home.
In many ways, stucco affects a home’s value much like other types of siding. If it is appealing and in good condition, it can add value to the home.
How much does it cost to stucco a home?
Stucco installation cost an average of $6 to $9 per square foot. That means an average house of 1,500 square feet would cost approximately $11,250. This is a very rough estimate.
Cost factors for stucco installation include:
- Size
- Complexity (trim)
- Stucco type (coats needed)
- Labor (regional)
- Previous siding type
- Location
- Permits
The amount of work involved in prepping the location and how dangerous the work is will impact the job cost. However, a good stucco installation will last for many years without maintenance.
Make sure your stucco installation is done using quality materials by an experienced professional. Most homeowners who have stucco installations love their new home exterior. Shoddy work done by an uninsured, unlicensed individual or even DIY stucco can be a disaster. It’s better to have it done correctly the first time.
If you are interested in stucco for your house, get a free quote from Greg Unseth Painting.
