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

Late fall is generally the best time of year for installing stucco siding. We don’t recommend hiring a stucco pro to apply this feature when the temperatures are below freezing, so it’s best to avoid applying stucco siding to your home during the winter. However, it’s safe to apply in hot and colder temperatures, so any other time of year is suitable. The spring and summer are the busiest times of year for stucco siding professionals, so you could save money by doing the work in the off-season: the late fall.

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.

In some cases, stucco siding will increase your home value. Stucco is an attractive siding option, meaning it maximizes your curb appeal. This exterior feature also comes with added benefits, such as being relatively easy and affordable to repair, making your home more energy-efficient, and making the exterior of your home fire-resistant. On average, you can expect a return on investment of around 70%.

The average cost of stucco siding is $5,400, ranging from $2,200 to $8,840. Stucco is worth the investment, provided you have the work done by a professional. Not only is stucco an attractive and durable siding material that boosts your home’s curb appeal, but it’s also more energy-efficient than most other siding options, it’s fire-resistant, water-resistant, and more affordable to repair down the road.