If you’ve ever admired a smooth, textured, or Mediterranean-style home exterior, chances are you were looking at stucco. This timeless wall finish has been around for centuries and is still a favorite today because it’s durable, versatile, and stylish. But what exactly is stucco, and why do so many homeowners and builders choose it? Let’s break it down.
What Is Stucco Used For?
This cement-based plaster is one of the most widely used finishes for both exterior and interior walls—and for good reason. It’s affordable, low-maintenance, and naturally resistant to rot and fungus, making it a practical choice for long-lasting construction.
While it’s most often applied to concrete walls, the coating also works beautifully over brick, steel, and wood framing. It adapts to almost any building type or climate, delivering a tough, attractive finish.
Beyond performance, this material offers endless design flexibility. From sleek, modern exteriors to rustic, textured looks, the right texture can transform your home’s curb appeal.
How Is Stucco Made?
The finish begins as a simple mixture of cement, sand, and water blended into a plaster-like material that’s applied wet and hardens into a durable surface. Depending on the materials used, you’ll find two main types:
Traditional Stucco
Made with cement, sand, and often lime, this classic mixture is prepared on-site and applied in layers. The formula can be adjusted to perform differently:
- More cement = harder, longer-lasting.
- More lime = easier to mold and shape.
- Additives like acrylics or glass fibers = increased durability.
When applied properly over a stable base (lath), traditional plaster can last 50 years or more.
Synthetic Stucco (Acrylic / EIFS)
Instead of cement and lime, synthetic systems use acrylic resins. The result is a finish that:
- Resists water penetration.
- Dries quickly and evenly.
- Flexes with your home to prevent cracking.
This option is especially popular in humid climates like Houston, where flexibility and water resistance are key.
Finish Styles
No matter which type you choose, the material can be customized with a variety of textures, including:
- Sand finish – subtle, grainy texture.
- Lace finish – a classic, Southwestern-style look.
- Combed finish – modern, linear grooves.
- Freestyle finish – unique, hand-applied patterns.
Thickness can also be adjusted, which impacts both durability and appearance.
The Pros and Cons of Stucco
Like any exterior material, this wall coating has its strengths and weaknesses.
Pros
- Visually Appealing – Wide range of colors and textures.
- Durable & Weather Resistant – Holds up against heat, sun, and wind.
- Fire Resistant – Adds protection to your home.
- Cost-Effective – Affordable compared to other siding options.
- Versatile – Can be applied to masonry, brick, wood, steel, and more.
- Customizable – Pigments can be mixed in or painted afterward.
Bottom line: This finish offers character, protection, and curb appeal that can last decades.
Cons
- Porous Material – Absorbs moisture; less ideal in very wet climates.
- Can Crumble in Wet Environments – Especially without proper sealing.
- Repairs Can Be Costly – Cracks and chips must be fixed quickly.
- Not Forgiving of Poor Installation – Mistakes lead to bulging, cracking, or separation.
👉 In Dallas’s drier climate, it performs extremely well. In humid Houston, synthetic acrylic systems are often preferred.
When Is the Best Time to Install or Repair Stucco?
Weather conditions play a huge role in how well the plaster sets. The right temperature and moisture levels can mean the difference between a smooth, long-lasting finish and cracks that need repairs later.
- Best Season: Fall, when temps are mild (low to mid-70s °F / 20s °C).
- Summer: Too hot—dries too fast, leading to cracks.
- Spring: Rain and humidity slow the drying process.
- Winter: Freezing temps can cause cracking or efflorescence (white salt deposits).
Pro tip: In Texas, fall and early winter are ideal times for exterior work.
How Much Value Does Stucco Add to Your Home?
One of the biggest advantages of this finish is that it not only enhances curb appeal—it also adds real value.
If you spend around $3,000 on exterior plaster, your home’s resale value could increase by nearly double that amount—up to $7,000. Buyers in both Houston and Dallas appreciate its mix of beauty, energy efficiency, and low maintenance.
Put simply: it’s a smart investment that pays off in comfort now and in resale value later.
What Contractors Check Before Applying Stucco
Before starting, a professional contractor will thoroughly inspect your home to ensure the new surface bonds properly and protects your structure. Key things they look for include:
- Wall Material – Different prep steps for wood vs. masonry.
- Surface Cleanliness – Dirt and debris must be removed for proper adhesion.
- Cracks or Damage – Even small fissures can cause water infiltration.
- Windows, Doors & Roofs – Flashing and barriers must be sealed to prevent leaks.
- Existing Hardware & Siding – Old or damaged framing and sheathing need replacement.
- Property Protection – Landscaping, windows, and interiors must be safeguarded during the project.
This inspection step is critical for a long-lasting, professional result.
Final Thoughts
This cement-based coating is durable, customizable, and cost-effective, making it a standout choice for homeowners across Texas. For Dallas residents, it’s nearly perfect. For those in Houston, synthetic versions offer the water resistance needed for humid conditions.
About Brick Restoration, Inc.
We are the highest rated full-service masonry repair and installation contractor serving the Greater Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth areas.
Known for our expert workmanship and outstanding results, our extensively trained masons and patented technology separates us from other masonry contractors.
With over 30 years in business, our masonry team and specialists are experts at enhancing your home’s curb appeal.
Schedule your free estimate today to meet with one of our Restoration Specialists.
