Understanding Stucco Plastering: Explore the Advantages of a Long-Lasting and Attractive Wall Coating for both Interior and Exterior Spaces
Stucco plastering is a low-maintenance, long-lasting decorative coating that offers a variety of textures, finishes, and colours, making it a popular choice for both residential and commercial properties. This versatile plaster is typically used on the exterior of buildings to mimic the appearance of stone.
Applying stucco requires a multi-layered approach, and it can be challenging to achieve a good finish for those not skilled in plastering. However, with the right tools and techniques, stucco can be tailored to a variety of textures, from smooth and swirled to patterned with speciality tools.
A medium plastering sponge float is an ideal companion to help achieve a smooth textured finish, while a set of seven stainless steel trowels are ideal for finishing most types of plaster. For exterior applications, a grey enhanced Portland-limestone cement is available to ensure durability and weather resistance.
The classic recipe for stucco consists of Portland cement, sand, lime, and water. Modern stucco products sometimes mix in polymers or fibers to boost performance against cracking or water intrusion. Stucco can be tinted to give various natural colours, or it can be painted with masonry paint or interior paint.
Cement stucco provides a strong, protective finish that resists weathering, fading, frost, and moisture to some extent. It effectively hides masonry joints and moderate wall irregularities, and reinforcing meshes can be added to improve strength and impact resistance. Among high-quality wall finishes, stucco is cost-effective. Cement stucco sheds water well and allows some vapor permeability, unless sealed with waterproof paint.
However, cement stucco has its disadvantages. It often cracks, especially around windows and doors. Cracks are hard to repair and can let moisture penetrate, damaging the wall structure. Cement stucco is not very eco-friendly due to its high embodied energy and environmental impact due to cement production. It is not suited for earthen or straw walls as it can wick moisture into such walls, causing deterioration. Unlike lime or earth plasters, cement stucco is less vapor permeable and can trap moisture if sealed improperly. Repairing cracks quickly is crucial to avoid water ingress, which can cause wood rot or insulation damage.
In warm climates, stucco is used almost exclusively on the outside due to its ability to expand and contract, as well as deflect heat without warping. Interior applications of stucco tend to be reserved for dramatic feature walls, fireplace surrounds, or high-end design installs.
In summary, cement stucco is durable, versatile, and cost-effective but requires careful installation and maintenance to avoid cracking and moisture problems, especially on certain wall types. It is not the most environmentally sustainable or breathable option compared to natural plasters. Proper detailing and fiber reinforcement can mitigate some disadvantages.
*Note: Prices for stucco plastering can vary, but textured plastering such as Stucco costs £50-£100 per square metre. Stucco plasterers charge per square metre, and there can be added costs for scaffolding and preparation work.
[1] Building Green (2021) [online] Available at: https://www.buildinggreen.com/product-review/stucco [Accessed 20 March 2023]
[3] The Spruce (2021) [online] Available at: https://www.thespruce.com/what-is-stucco-2132819 [Accessed 20 March 2023]
- When it comes to achieving a smooth textured finish with stucco, medium plastering sponge floats and stainless steel trowels are essential tools.
- For exterior applications, using a grey enhanced Portland-limestone cement can enhance durability and weather resistance in stucco.
- If homeowners choose to build a new property or renovate an existing one, hiring a contractor with expertise in interior-design and home-and-garden projects can guide the design process to incorporate stucco in lifestyle accordingly.
- In the bathroom or kitchen, for instance, stucco can be used to create a unique, eye-catching texture that enhances the overall design of the space.
- Despite its advantages, homeowners must remember that stucco can be costly, with textured plastering like Stucco costing £50-£100 per square metre, not including added costs for scaffolding and preparation work.
- While the cost-effectiveness of stucco is attractive, it's essential to consider the long-term maintenance and repair costs associated with cracks, especially on windows, doors, and certain wall types.
- To minimize the environmental impact of using stucco, homeowners can opt for natural plasters or seek out eco-friendly stucco products that contain lower amounts of cement.
