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You should aim to let stucco dry for at least 48 hours before it rains. While misting new stucco and keeping it moderately moist is important for strength and longevity, uncontrolled exposure to rain can lead to weak stucco that doesn’t bond properly. Rain can also affect the stucco finish and the color unevenly, leaving you with less appealing siding.

The best way to assess that your stucco needs repair is to inspect it, both visually and physically. If you notice cracks, chips, or staining, that’s a good indication that your stucco could use some TLC by a professional. Additionally, if you touch an area that feels soft and has a little “give,” you should consider repairing it as soon as possible to avoid further damage, both to additional stucco spots and to your home’s structure. 

The curing time for stucco typically takes several weeks to fully complete. During the curing process, the stucco undergoes a chemical reaction and gradually hardens. It's important to note that curing is different from drying. While the surface of the stucco may dry relatively quickly within a few hours or days, the curing process continues beneath the surface, strengthening and solidifying the stucco. 

It's best to avoid excessive moisture exposure during the curing period, as it can impede the curing process. The exact curing time can vary based on factors such as temperature, humidity, and the specific stucco mixture used.

Yes, you can apply the stucco yourself, but it is a time- and labor-intensive project, especially on the exterior of a whole house. DIY stucco is better suited for repairing stucco siding or siding a smaller building, such as a shed or garage. Since most of the cost of stucco siding goes to labor, you can cut down significantly on the total if you’re up for the challenge.