Get matched with top stucco pros in Muscle Shoals, AL

Neutral colors like white, tan, beige, and light brown are the most popular stucco colors. Natural stucco has a grayish color due to the high concentration of Portland cement in the material, but most homeowners have their contractors add pigments to create a more inviting appearance. Stucco is most popular in hotter climates, where it provides ample insulation to regulate interior temperatures and keep the solar heat out. Since lighter colors reflect more sunlight, lighter stucco is more prevalent.

Mortar, or masonry mortar, is mainly used in joints and as parging for stone, brick, or cement construction. Stucco is primarily a surface material used as wall coverings. For maintenance, masonry will need repointing or replacing as damage or land shifting occurs, whereas stucco will need patching or refinishing as it tends to crack over time along with other types of wear-and-tear.

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.

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.