A Brief Introduction To Stucco Walls
If you would like to try something different in your home besides the same tired drywall, then you may want to look into stucco walls. This is essentially a durable finish that is usually created by a mixture of cement, sand, and lime. It is typically applied to the inside or outside of a home in several coats while wet and allowed to dry. Sometimes also referred to as render, this is the perfect solution to cover up less attractive building materials such as cinder blocks, clay bricks, and concrete. There are many different types of stucco siding, such as traditional stucco walls and the newer synthetic ones.
In order to prevent cracking due to foundation settling or other issues, stucco walls must be reinforced. This is usually accomplished by having plastic or wire mesh embedded into the base coat. It also must be protected against water vapor so that mold and rot does not occur. A water resistant barrier made from paper saturated with asphalt is typically used. This substance not only must be able to keep water outside of the home, but must also be able to allow water being drained from the home to escape. Today there exist several different accessories that can be incorporated into the lath for various reasons such as weep screeds and expansion joints.
Stucco exterior walls are also an attractive solution that you may want to consider. Stucco siding has been around for ages and is best known for its durability and attractive looks. It is perhaps most often seen on Spanish homes, but there are certainly many cases these days when it is used on other types of buildings. One of the main reasons why it is so popular is that it needs only very little maintenance, even after it has become quite old. It is also easy to apply as it can be put directly over top of building materials such as concrete and brick.
While stucco walls technically can be painted they most often are not, and for good reason. First of all, they do not adhere well to paint so you will constantly have to reapply a new coat every two or three years. Another problem that painting it can cause is that it does not allow the concrete to breathe. Repairing stucco walls is typically as simple as applying new coats directly over top of the old ones. Painting can also cause problems in this area because you will have to sandblast before applying a new coat. One solution you may want to consider if you desire some color is to buy a plaster that already has the color added.
As you can see, stucco walls are an excellent choice and are very versatile. They are most known for their durability and easy maintenance.
