Stucco Pros & Cons
With all of the style, material, and color combinations available, there are numerous options for residing your home. But before you settle on a certain type of siding, it’s important to look at the big picture and consider how your decision will impact your home and family in the long run. Here are some of the pros and cons of residing a home with stucco in Colorado.
Pros
Here are some of the reasons why homeowners are attracted to stucco siding:
- Color: Many people are drawn to stucco because of the rich earth tones. These rock and stone-like colors are warm and inviting, and are reminiscent of the natural beauty of the Southwest.
- Texture: Texture is one of the most compelling attributes of stucco siding. It has so much depth and character. The same texture is similar to natural rock formations, which makes it appealing to people who enjoy being in nature.
- Fire resistance: Stucco is made of a mixture sand, Portland cement, lime, and water, which are all non-flammable. In areas where wildfires are a concern or there are strict safety codes because homes are built close together, this could be a desirable trait.
Cons
While there are many benefits of stucco siding, there are also considerable drawbacks. Here are some of the disadvantages:
- Fragility: High alkaline, clay soil is a common characteristic of Colorado. Clay soil is notorious for causing foundations to shift. This could be devastating to stucco siding and cause it to crack.
- Insulation Insulation is also a concern for modern stucco. Stucco siding is best suited for areas that are warm and dry year round. While summers in Colorado are notably dry, winters are cold and damp. This can lead to high heating costs and moisture damage.
- High maintenance: Stucco siding is difficult to repair, and almost always requires the assistance of a professional, which can be expensive. Furthermore, it has to be cleaned regularly because dirt, dust, and grime create stains that stand out like a sore thumb.
In the end, only you can make the decision about whether or not you’re comfortable with the risks involved with stucco siding. If you like the look of stucco, there are many alternatives out there that have a similar appearance. Your contractor will be able to help you find a better option that looks just as beautiful.
