Siding Options: Disadvantages to Stucco Siding
Homeowners have a plethora of options when it comes to choosing siding for their homes. There are many different siding manufacturers, styles, colors, and textures to choose from. Each style of siding comes with both advantages and disadvantages, so taking the time to carefully review the different options is essential to choosing the right style for your home. Stucco siding in particular is known for its distinctive Mediterranean style appearance and rustic feel. Unfortunately, what many homeowners fail to realize is there are many disadvantages to stucco siding that shouldn’t be overlooked. The following post gives a few reasons why you may want to reconsider choosing stucco and opt for a lower maintenance, less costly option like vinyl siding.
- Stucco siding absorbs moisture easily.
One of the biggest problems with stucco siding is that moisture is easily absorbed and entrapped. There is little to no breathability to stucco siding, meaning once moisture is absorbed, it will stay there as it has no means to escape. Eventually, the entrapped moisture may begin to deteriorate the sheathing and framing of the siding. While applying a waterproof sealant to deter this problem is an option, it’s likely the entire foundation will have to be sealed to have a significant effect, which can be costly and time consuming.
- Stucco siding is susceptible to cracking.
Another problem with stucco siding is that it can crack for a variety of reasons. One of the main reasons that stucco siding cracks is because of soil shifting. It can also occur because of high winds, trapped moisture, shrinking lumber, or poor installation. Regardless of the reason, cracks in stucco siding must be repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
- Stucco siding is easily damaged.
As a result of the fact that stucco siding is crumbly and soft in texture, it can be easily damaged by common occurrences. Wood peckers can cause holes in the siding, children may dent or damage stucco siding with sports equipment, rain or wind may cause cracking, and it is easily stained. Due to its extremely porous nature, stucco siding absorbs not only moisture, but other liquids it may be exposed to as well. This includes tree sap, berry stains, and any other type of liquid that may be accidentally absorbed. In order to get rid of the stains, you’ll have to paint over them which can be very time consuming.
- Stucco siding is high maintenance.
Unlike vinyl siding which requires little to maintenance at all, stucco siding is difficult to maintain. Because it can easily be cracked, stained, or damaged, maintaining its original appearance after initial installation is extremely difficult. If any damage occurs, it’s critical to repair the problems immediately as water is so easily absorbed. Regular inspections and frequent painting is likely due to its susceptibility to be stained.
- Stucco siding is expensive.
One of the main reasons homeowners may shy away from choosing stucco siding is because of its expensive price tag. Installation costs are significantly higher for stucco siding than other siding styles because of the many steps that are required. Proper installation is crucial for stucco siding in particular because of the many ways in which it can become damaged. Vinyl siding is a much more cost effective option that requires little maintenance, has a high ROI, and is visually appealing.
