For exterior work, stucco masons usually apply stucco—a mixture of Portland cement, lime, and sand—over cement, concrete, masonry, or lath. Stucco may also be applied directly to a wire lath with a scratch coat, followed by a brown coat and then a finish coat.

Stucco is a finish system used in the construction of homes and commercial buildings. It provides a variety of colors and textures that improve the appearance of any structure. Stucco is also economical and long lasting. With stucco you can create looks and architectural detailing that aren't possible with brick or other materials. Stucco is a low maintenance finish material and requires no repainting. It is durable and fire resistant.

Since they are Portland cement products, traditional stucco systems grow stronger with age and are impervious to termites, rot and fungus. New inert, non-fading pigments provide longer life than ever before, and the color permeates the entire stucco finish coat. Over the ages, plaster has evolved from mud and clay, to lime-based plaster and Portland cement stucco. Today, a wide variety of Portland cement stuccos, as well as other modern materials which simulate the stucco look, are available. Newer stucco-like systems are often also called stucco although they are not cement based. These new foam and acrylic-based finish systems can add insulation value and other features to those available with traditional stucco.

There are three basic stucco wall systems that are widely accepted today. They are:

TRADITIONAL THREE COAT STUCCO

THIN COAT FIBER REINFORCED STUCCO (FRS)

EXTERIOR INSULATION AND FINISH SYSTEMS (EIFS)

The choice of a system will depend on the type of construction, appearance desired, and environmental conditions. Cost and durability factors may also be considered.
 

Copyright © 2003 Martin McMahon Plastering
Last modified: 10/26/03