"I only use James when I need some work done to my house. He responds fast, gets the work done quicker than just about anyone else I've ever used and seems very concerned with leaving his customers happy."
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.
German schmear is a durable brick masonry coating. It should last at least a decade or two without flaking or fading, even with minimal maintenance. This makes it an economical option compared to the cost of painting your house exterior, which usually needs to be repainted every five to 10 years to keep it looking its best—thus costing more over the same time period.
Yes, you can screw directly into stucco. Only do so if the item you are installing is a permanent fixture. Drill a pilot hole into the stucco using a masonry or concrete bit, then drive in the screw with a power drill or screwdriver.
If it is applied properly, stucco is a durable material that can last between 50 and 80 years, especially with regular repair and maintenance. Things like painting the stucco every 10 years or so will help it last longer. The location of your home plays a big part in the life span of your stucco, too.
Several clues suggest that your stucco is damaged or has underlying issues. Visual clues include discoloration, cracks, indentations, broken caulking, or visible mold. If you touch your stucco and feel any soft spots, that could also indicate a problem. If you notice any of these concerns, call in an inspector who can confirm your suspicions and help provide solutions.
The Martin, SD homeowners’ guide to stucco services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Discover the cost to stucco a house in 2026, including average prices, key factors, and tips to help you budget and plan your stucco project with confidence.
Installing new stucco gives your home a facelift and boosts home value. But can you stucco over stucco? You can, but there are some things to consider.
Choose the right pro for stucco installation to get the best professional-quality results. Learn who does stucco installation and the benefits of hiring a pro.
Wondering if stucco increases home value? The short answer is, yes, but the ROI you’ll see depends on a few factors, like location and installation costs.