Get matched with top stucco pros in Pilot Knob, MO

Stucco is very challenging to DIY, so it’s always best to leave the work to professional stucco contractors. The same recommendation applies to painting a stucco house, which should be left in the reliable hands of a professional exterior painter. Inexperienced DIYers can make several critical mistakes during stucco application, such as:

• Failing to apply sufficiently thick layers for longevity and water resistance

• Uneven application

• Uneven texture across the exterior

• Mixing the stucco improperly, leaving a weak structure

• Failing to texture properly in between coats, leading to cracking and chipping

A standard drill will work just fine if you’re drilling small holes, and only a few of them. But anything with a diameter larger than 3/8 inch is best done with a hammer drill, since it is stronger, faster, and also makes your drill bits last longer. While you don’t absolutely need a hammer drill for stucco, it is a worthy investment if you think you might drill more holes down the road.

Yes, you can apply stucco directly over brick, and the rough texture of the brick should be enough for the stucco to adhere to, even without a binding agent. Just be sure to clean the brick thoroughly before stuccoing, and allow 72 hours for the first coat of stucco to dry, even if it feels dry to the touch. The thicker portions that fill in the mortar joints will cure more slowly than the thinner portions over the brick faces.

One upside to stucco siding is that it can last for 50 to 80 years, and it’s reasonably low maintenance during that lifespan. However, you’ll need routine maintenance to keep it looking its best, as it will crack and chip as it ages. If you live in an area that sees heavier rainfall, sealing your stucco siding every five to 10 years may be necessary.