When it comes to home exteriors in Colorado, stucco continues to be a favorite for homeowners—and for good reason. This durable, versatile, and energy-efficient finish isn’t just a regional trend; it’s a smart, long-lasting investment that suits Colorado’s unique climate and architectural style. But like anything exposed to the elements, stucco needs some care to maintain its appearance and integrity over time.
In this blog, we’ll explore why stucco is so popular across Colorado, the benefits it offers for local homeowners, and how to keep it looking its best year after year.
Why Stucco Is a Popular Choice in Colorado
Stucco has been used as a building material for centuries, and in regions like the American Southwest—Colorado included—it has become a staple. It complements everything from Pueblo Revival and Mediterranean-style homes to more modern builds. But its popularity isn’t just about looks. There are practical reasons Colorado homeowners continue to choose stucco over alternatives like wood siding, vinyl, or brick.
1. It’s Built for Colorado’s Climate
Stucco performs exceptionally well in dry climates with large temperature swings—just like the conditions you’ll find throughout much of Colorado. The material’s breathability allows moisture to escape from inside the walls while resisting outside elements like snow, rain, and UV rays.
In regions like Colorado Springs, where the weather can be unpredictable, stucco holds up beautifully through hot summers, dry winds, and freezing winters. It doesn’t warp or rot like wood, nor does it melt or crack as easily as vinyl.
2. Energy Efficiency
Because stucco is applied in multiple layers and can be combined with additional insulation, it offers excellent thermal resistance. Homes finished in stucco tend to stay cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. That’s a big bonus in Colorado, where temperatures can swing drastically from day to night.
This thermal efficiency translates into energy savings—and over time, that can really add up. It also contributes to a more comfortable home year-round, without overloading your HVAC system.
3. Low Maintenance (When Properly Cared For)
Compared to many other types of exterior finishes, stucco requires relatively little maintenance. It doesn’t need to be repainted every few years like wood or fiber cement siding. It resists pests like termites, doesn’t fade quickly, and is unlikely to suffer significant wear and tear under normal weather conditions.
However, that doesn’t mean it’s maintenance-free. A little attention goes a long way when it comes to keeping stucco clean, fresh, and damage-free—which we’ll cover in detail shortly.
4. Fire and Pest Resistance
Colorado is no stranger to wildfire risk in certain areas, especially during the dry season. Stucco’s fire-resistant properties are another reason homeowners feel safer with this material. Traditional three-coat stucco systems use cement and sand, which are non-combustible and can help slow the spread of fire.
In addition, stucco is unattractive to pests like rodents and insects. Termites don’t eat it, and with proper installation, it can help keep critters from burrowing into your home’s framing.
5. Long Lifespan
With proper application and routine upkeep, stucco can last 50 years or more. That kind of longevity makes it one of the most cost-effective exterior finishes available, especially considering its energy efficiency and low maintenance requirements.
Plus, it tends to age gracefully. While other materials may visibly deteriorate, stucco develops a patina over time that many homeowners find adds character.
6. Versatile Appearance
Stucco isn’t just durable—it’s also aesthetically flexible. It can be applied in a variety of textures and finishes, from smooth and modern to heavily textured or rustic. It also accepts a wide range of paint or pigment options, allowing homeowners to achieve nearly any look they want.
Whether your home is a new build or a historic renovation, stucco offers a custom look that complements Colorado’s diverse neighborhoods and architectural styles.
How to Keep Your Stucco Looking New
While stucco is impressively tough, exposure to the elements over time can take a toll. Cracks, staining, and fading can appear if it’s neglected. Luckily, keeping stucco looking fresh doesn’t require constant upkeep—just the right approach.
Here’s how to maintain your stucco exterior and preserve its beautiful, clean appearance for decades.
1. Wash It Annually
Dirt, pollen, and environmental pollutants can build up on your stucco over time, dulling its color and creating a dingy appearance. A gentle annual cleaning can restore its brightness and prevent long-term discoloration.
Avoid using a high-pressure power washer, as this can damage the stucco surface or force water behind it, causing interior damage. Instead, use a garden hose with a spray nozzle and a soft-bristle brush. For stubborn spots, a mild detergent mixed with water can help.
2. Inspect for Cracks
Stucco can develop hairline cracks due to natural settling or thermal expansion and contraction. While these small cracks are usually not serious, they should be sealed to prevent water from seeping in and causing damage behind the wall.
Perform a walk-around inspection of your home’s exterior at least once a year—spring or fall is ideal. Look for cracks, chips, or other signs of wear. If you spot any damage, address it promptly.
3. Repair Damage Promptly
If cracks widen or pieces of stucco begin to fall away (known as delamination), you should call in a professional for repairs. Minor patching can sometimes be done DIY-style, but proper color and texture matching can be challenging.
Professionally applied stucco repair ensures the new material blends seamlessly with the original surface and protects your home from further moisture intrusion.
4. Repaint or Recolor as Needed
Although traditional stucco can last for decades, the color may fade over time—especially with intense sun exposure. If your stucco was painted or tinted during installation, you may notice it needs a refresh every 10-15 years.
Repainting stucco is a great way to update your home’s look and seal the surface from moisture. Use high-quality, breathable masonry paint designed specifically for stucco. For best results and color longevity, work with a painting contractor experienced in stucco exteriors.
5. Maintain Proper Drainage
Water is one of stucco’s few enemies, so your home’s drainage systems should be in good working order. Make sure gutters and downspouts are clean and directing water away from the foundation. Check that sprinklers or irrigation systems aren’t spraying water directly onto stucco surfaces.
If water is allowed to sit on or behind the stucco, it can lead to staining, mold, or more serious damage—especially if there are cracks or weaknesses in the finish.
6. Don’t Ignore Discoloration
Stains on stucco can be caused by mineral deposits, mildew, or water exposure. Rust-colored streaks may indicate contact with metal fasteners, while green or black patches could be mold or algae growth.
These aren’t just cosmetic issues—they often point to underlying moisture problems. Have a pro inspect any major discoloration to determine the cause and provide solutions before structural damage occurs.
7. Schedule Professional Inspections Every Few Years
Even if your stucco looks fine on the surface, it’s a good idea to have a professional check it every few years—especially on older homes. A trained eye can spot subtle signs of wear or hidden moisture problems that homeowners might miss.
Catching issues early is key to protecting the structure of your home and avoiding expensive repairs down the line.
Trust Your Stucco to Local Experts
Stucco is a smart choice for Colorado homeowners—but only if it’s properly installed and maintained. At Greg Unseth Painting, we specialize in both stucco application and repair, with decades of experience working in the Colorado Springs area. Our team understands the unique demands of Colorado’s climate and how to protect stucco finishes against sun, snow, and everything in between.
We also offer professional exterior painting services designed specifically for stucco surfaces. Whether you’re refreshing your home’s look or tackling long-overdue repairs, we’re here to help.
Let Us Help You Keep Your Stucco Looking Beautiful
If your home features stucco—or you’re considering it for a future project—partner with a team that knows how to bring out the best in it. Greg Unseth Painting offers expert stucco installation, repair, maintenance, and painting services across Colorado Springs and beyond. Contact us today for a free estimate and let’s make sure your home looks stunning and stays protected for years to come.