Get matched with top stucco pros in Palmyra, MO

Stucco is considered a type of cladding because it includes a built-in ventilation layer, a weatherproof membrane beneath that, and, often, a layer of insulation to improve building efficiency. The multiple layers of stucco—the scratch coat, the brown coat, and the finish coat—also create a more complex building membrane, so it’s more accurate to call it cladding. However, homeowners and contractors alike refer to stucco as siding.

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.

Many general contractors can handle adding stucco siding, but it’s best to hire a local stucco contractor as you’re more likely to get a clean finish on your stucco siding that maximizes curb appeal. Stucco can be a challenging material to work with, so hiring a professional contractor who has years of experience and specializes in stucco application is advisable. Compare price quotes from at least three stucco contractors in your area to find the right pro for your task.

Due to application and cure times between coats, stuccoing a house takes between 10 and 14 days. Professionals may be able to wrap up projects on smaller homes in 7 to 10 days, while stuccoing large, multi-level homes can take more than two weeks. For the standard three-coat stucco system, six days are dedicated solely to stucco drying timelines, which are necessary after each coat.