Stucco is a common choice in Florida, and it’s easy to see why – it’s versatile and it looks great.
But how do contractors apply it, and what else do you need to know?
How Stucco Is Applied
The process of applying stucco depends upon the adhering surface. If stucco is being applied to brick, concrete, stone, or any masonry, it will directly adhere. If the surface is wood, however, it will need what is known as a “scratch coat,” which is achieved by laying metal lathe around the wood before application. Three additional layers are applied thereafter.
Textures
There are many, many options when it comes to choosing a stucco texture. Each has its own distinct pattern. Here are a few.
Lace Stucco
This is a popular texture that has a lacy-looking surface and is good for hiding building flaws. To get the look, stucco cement is sprayed onto the surface of a home and then smoothed out using a trowel to “knock it down.”
Sand/Float
A popcorn-like finish is the end result. The final coat of stucco is brushed on using a “plaster float,” which is a trowel with a sponge at the end.
Santa Barbara
Yields a faintly textured surface, and adds a little charm to the exterior of a home.
Smooth or Scraped
This texture is achieved by smoothing the stucco by hand using a trowel.
Finishes
Pre-Colored Stucco
When it comes to finishes, a homeowner can choose a pre-colored mud or an acrylic plaster, which can be cost-effective in the long-run since there won’t be a need to repaint. Today’s stucco can be mixed in an array of hues: from neutrals, to the bright and intense.
Paint or Whitewash
Latex exterior paint can be used to color even textures after a primer base. Whitewashing is another common practice. Both require periodic upkeep.
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