Professional Stucco Installation
Looking for a high-quality stucco contractor near you? At REVMA, we specialize in professional stucco finish applications for both residential and commercial properties. We offer energy-efficient, durable, and aesthetically stunning stucco solutions using materials from the industry's top manufacturers like STO, Senergy, Parex, Decoplast, & Dryvit.
Get a Stucco EstimateEIFS STUCCO SYSTEMS
What Is EIFS Stucco?
EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish System) is a multi-layered exterior wall system that provides superior insulation, weather resistance, drainability, and design flexibility. Unlike traditional stucco, EIFS uses a synthetic cladding and an insulation board that helps reduce thermal bridging and energy costs.
This innovative system is ideal for both residential and commercial properties. We use premium materials from industry leaders like STO, Dryvit, and Parex. Unlike traditional hard-coat stucco, which is cement-based and heavier, EIFS is lightweight and more flexible, allowing it to resist cracking due to building movement.
When installing EIFS systems, we incorporate a drainage system; so in the event of potential water intrusion, water will drain behind your stucco onto the ground. Explore our other siding options including James Hardie fiber cement, natural cedar, and Celect composite.
The Stucco Installation Process
Our professional EIFS stucco installation follows a precise, multi-step process to ensure superior performance and longevity.
Substrate Preparation
The process starts with inspecting and preparing the exterior sheathing. The surface must be clean, dry, and structurally sound.
- First, we wrap the house in a water-resistant barrier (WRB) or roll a liquid barrier onto the sheathing.
- Second, we flash all windows and doors with a butyl tape helping create a watertight seal.
Insulation Board Installation
A layer of expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation board is applied to the prepared surface.
- It can be installed with a liquid adhesive or mechanically fastened; this depends on the project specifications and/or the contractor's preference.
- For windows, doors, corners, and other architectural details, the insulation boards are cut precisely to fit the existing designs.
Base Coat Application
Next, we apply a high-performance base coat over the insulation board.
- While the base coat is still wet, we embed an alkali-resistant fiberglass mesh to reinforce the system; this helps provide crack resistance and bind the boards together.
- The base coat helps level out surface imperfections, creating a smooth and even layer for the decorative finish.
- Additionally, the base coat contributes to moisture resistance when combined with a proper drainage system.
Finish Coat Application
The finish coat is the final, outermost layer that provides both aesthetic appearance and weather resistance.
- Made from a flexible, acrylic-based material, the finish coat mimics the look of traditional stucco while offering a wide range of textures and colors.
- It is applied over the base coat and embedded mesh, creating a decorative surface that's resistant to fading, cracking, and mildew.
- The EIFS finish coat protects the underlying layers from UV rays and moisture, contributing to the overall performance and longevity of the exterior cladding system.
Advantages of Stucco Siding
Like any building material, stucco has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Exceptional Durability
When properly installed, traditional stucco is a rock-hard siding that can easily last 50-100 years. It stands up remarkably well to weather, impact, and pests like termites.
Fire Resistance
As a cement-based product, stucco is non-combustible and has a one-hour fire rating, offering excellent protection for your home.
Design Versatility
Stucco can be tinted to virtually any color, eliminating the need for painting. It can also be applied with a wide variety of textures, from a modern smooth finish to a rustic, coarse texture.
Popular Stucco Finishes and Textures
One of the most appealing aspects of stucco is its aesthetic flexibility. The finish coat can be manipulated to create a wide range of textures to suit various architectural styles.
Sand or Float Textures
One of the most common finishes, this has a fine, sandy texture, achieved by rubbing the surface with a float tool. Perfect for residential applications.
Swirl or Lace Patterns
This popular texture creates a pattern of smooth areas and rougher, recessed patterns, effectively hiding imperfections. It's often seen on Spanish and Tuscan-style homes.
Synthetic Brick and Stone Replicas
Advanced finishing techniques can create the appearance of brick or stone masonry, providing the aesthetic appeal without the weight and cost.
Smooth Venetian-Style Finishes
A sleek, modern look that is highly desirable for contemporary architecture. This polished finish creates a sophisticated, upscale appearance.
EIFS Wall Thickness Options
Choose the right insulation thickness for your project's energy efficiency needs and building codes.
Moderate Efficiency
Good for mild climates or supplemental insulation projects. Provides basic thermal improvement.
Standard Residential
Meets most residential energy codes. The most popular choice for homes in the Northeast region.
High Performance
Superior energy insulation for commercial buildings or high-performance residential projects.
Stucco Maintenance and Repair
Maintaining your stucco is relatively straightforward. A gentle wash with a pressure washer on a low setting or a garden hose and a soft-bristled brush can remove most dirt. It's important to inspect your stucco annually, looking for cracks, stains, or soft spots.
For stucco repair, small hairline cracks can often be sealed with a high-quality elastomeric caulk. However, for larger cracks (wider than a credit card), significant staining, or any signs of softness, it is essential to call a professional. These can be signs of underlying water damage that must be addressed immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about stucco siding? We have answers to some of the most common inquiries.
Traditional stucco is a plaster made from Portland cement, sand, lime, and water. It cures into a hard, seamless, and highly durable wall covering perfect for home exteriors.
Traditional stucco is a solid cement-based plaster. Synthetic stucco (EIFS) is a multi-layered system with a foam insulation board at its core. EIFS offers better insulation but requires perfect installation to prevent moisture issues.
Stucco is very low maintenance. It typically only requires occasional cleaning. An annual inspection for cracks is recommended to ensure the building's envelope remains secure.
Stucco can develop hairline cracks over time due to house settling. While small cracks are cosmetic, larger ones should be sealed by a professional to prevent any water intrusion.
Is Stucco the Right Choice for You?
Stucco is an excellent, long-term investment in your home's beauty and protection, particularly in drier climates where moisture intrusion is less of a concern. It perfectly complements architectural styles like Mediterranean, Spanish, Tudor, and contemporary designs.
However, its success is entirely dependent on the quality of the installation. This is not a DIY-friendly project. The cost, which typically ranges from $8 to $15 per square foot installed, reflects the high level of skill required to do the job right. Before choosing stucco, get multiple quotes from reputable, licensed, and insured stucco contractors. Ask for references and look at their previous work. A flawless installation will give you a timeless, durable, and beautiful exterior that will protect your home for decades to come.
