Get matched with top stucco pros in Shelby, MT

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.

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

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.

It typically takes around 30 to 60 minutes for a window pro to replace one window in standard siding types, but a window in stucco will likely take a bit longer because of the density of materials. Custom architectural windows usually require a longer replacement process because of the additional fitting and securing required.