If you're thinking of updating the appearance of your brick house or want to change the look of an exterior brick that is damaged, stucco can be an innovative option that will refresh your home's appearance and increase curb appeal. We've reviewed and laid out some of the advantages and disadvantages of stucco to aid you in determining whether stucco is the best option for you.

As both stucco and brick are both masonry products, in most instances, stucco can be directly placed over brick. A water absorption test can be used to determine whether stucco can be able to bond directly to brick or whether a comprehensive clean-up, bonding agents, or a metal frame is required for the stucco to be able to adhere correctly. Paint and dirt could hinder the bonding of stucco, and improperly installed stucco can result in future issues such as cracking or water damage.

Once you've figured out what to look out for when applying stucco to your home and how to avoid it, let's look at the advantages and disadvantages of this versatile exterior coating.

Advantages of Stucco

Durability

Stucco can be used to protect your home from termites, mold, and fire. But how long will stucco last for a house? If you apply it over brick, it is possible for the stucco to last between 40 and 50 years, based on the climate in which you live.

Color Retention

The stucco's pigments help maintain color and lessen the requirement to repaint your home every so often, as other materials, such as wood.

Texture

Stucco can be used in a variety of textures to create a style that is in line with your taste.

Noise Reduction

Stucco naturally protects your house from noise pollution outside and is particularly beneficial for those who live in a zone with a lot of traffic.

Can Stucco Help Increase Home Value?

If properly installed and maintained in good order, stucco will provide your home with a seamless look that is often desired by buyers. The additional curb appeal can increase the value of your property if you're looking to sell your home.

Disadvantages of Stucco

Maintenance

Its texture draws dirt, and regular cleaning is required to keep the stucco looking nice. Cleaning can be done by using the garden hose. To tackle more challenging staining, it is suggested to use a detergent.

Do you have the ability to pressure wash stucco?

Pressure washing isn't the most suitable option because of the fragile finish stucco has. If needed, stucco can be washed using low pressure at a distance of 2 feet.

Inflexibility

The structure of stucco isn't flexible, and cracks can occur because of natural settlement. It is essential to fix holes and cracks as quickly as possible in order to keep the stucco looking great and to avoid any further harm.

Porosity

Stucco naturally holds moisture, which could result in water damage if it is not maintained regularly. The metal flashings around windows and doors should be in good working order and repaired as needed prior to applying stucco in order to stop water from getting between the brick and stucco, which could cause harm to the two.

Labor Costs

The process of applying stucco is a highly specialized task that requires a lot of labor as it is laid out in layers and usually requires skilled experts to ensure the proper installation. Therefore, the price of labor involved with stucco, in comparison to other options, such as siding, may be higher.

Project Planning

If you're taking on the task yourself, you must first make sure you have the right climate. Avoid temperatures that are too hot or freezing. If you can, design your project around a few overcast days with temperatures between 50 and 60. When you purchase materials, consider the amount of stucco mixture you'll require. Because color and texture can differ, buying all the materials in one go will ensure that you have a perfect match.