Question 1

What are siding options with longer lifespans than vinyl siding?

Accepted Answer

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While vinyl siding's lifespan of 20 to 40 years is impressive for the cost, other siding options can actually last much longer. Stucco siding can last 50 to 80 years when properly maintained and is only a bit more expensive than vinyl. Fiber cement is similar in that it’s a little more expensive but lasts more than twice as long. Stone and brick last the longest, often more than 100 years, but they’re the most expensive siding materials.

Question 2

Which exterior renovation adds the most value to a house?

Accepted Answer

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There are two ways to determine which renovation will add the most value to a house. One is based on money alone, and the other is based on the percentage of money spent versus money earned when selling the home. While these values vary, the best projects to add value based on percentages are exterior painting, replacing doors and windows, replacing the garage door, roofing replacement, and upgrading the siding.

Question 3

Can you do stucco yourself?

Accepted Answer

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Yes, you can apply the stucco yourself, but it is a time- and labor-intensive project, especially on the exterior of a whole house. DIY stucco is better suited for repairing stucco siding or siding a smaller building, such as a shed or garage. Since most of the cost of stucco siding goes to labor, you can cut down significantly on the total if you’re up for the challenge.

Question 4

How do I maintain stucco?

Accepted Answer

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Inspect annually for cracks, clean with a mild detergent, and reseal or repaint as needed to preserve appearance.

Question 5

How long does stucco take to cure?

Accepted Answer

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The curing time for stucco typically takes several weeks to fully complete. During the curing process, the stucco undergoes a chemical reaction and gradually hardens. It's important to note that curing is different from drying. While the surface of the stucco may dry relatively quickly within a few hours or days, the curing process continues beneath the surface, strengthening and solidifying the stucco.

It's best to avoid excessive moisture exposure during the curing period, as it can impede the curing process. The exact curing time can vary based on factors such as temperature, humidity, and the specific stucco mixture used.