Stucco siding is a cement-like mixture applied to a home’s exterior to give it a unique look. Homeowners seeking a low-maintenance, aesthetically pleasing siding solution may find stucco to be a viable option.

The cost to install stucco siding depends on a few factors, such as the home’s exterior square footage and chosen finish. For a 1,500-square-foot exterior, the total cost of stucco installation can range from $8,000–$18,000, with a $10,500 national average.*

*Article cost data via Angi and Fixr

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Major Stucco Siding Cost Factors

While the project’s overall cost depends on the amount needed and other important variables, homeowners typically spend between $9,500 and $11,500 to have stucco siding installed. Stucco siding cost is determined by:

• Siding material: Portland cement, sand, lime, and water.
• Repairs versus replacement: Repairing stucco is cheaper than replacing it.
• Style: Multiple finish options, from coarse to smooth.

Siding Material

The type of siding underneath the stucco impacts project costs. Here’s a breakdown of average costs based on applying stucco over brick or wood siding.

Cost by Siding Material

Repairs vs. Replacement

Many factors go into choosing the best siding for your home.

If you want to add stucco on top of existing siding, it will likely be more expensive than repairing what you have. While you may have issues with your old siding, stuccoing an entire house equates to getting new siding. Plus, any rotting patches of siding will have to be replaced before stucco can be applied to prevent further wood rot.

Once installed, repairing stucco is cheaper and more practical than replacing it. For example, fixing cracks is relatively easy and far less costly than removing them and starting over with a different type of siding. Stucco siding is very low maintenance, so repair costs are minimal given the product’s life span.

Style

Some popular types of stucco are traditional, synthetic, and smooth finish.

Traditional stucco is similar to cement. It’s a combination of sand, lime, and water, which makes it easy to mold and apply to a home’s exterior. It’s less expensive than the other two options at $0.50–$3 per square foot for materials only.

Synthetic stucco increases the installation cost but is more durable and energy-efficient than traditional stucco. While it’s similar to fiber cement, synthetic stucco is a different product. Synthetic stucco costs $1–$4 per square foot for materials only.

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Benefits of Stucco Siding

Stucco often has a distinct, textured look. While it’s not the most common type of siding, many homeowners with stucco siding feel that it enhances their home’s curb appeal.

Other benefits of stucco siding include:

• Low maintenance, durable, and fire resistant
• Green and eco-friendly
• Improves home value
• Good for thermal regulation and sound insulation
• Doesn’t have any joints or seams that require caulking, which is good for keeping out water and pests.

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Stucco vs. Vinyl Siding

If you’re on the fence between stucco and vinyl siding, keep the following in mind.

• Assuming both are properly cared for and maintained, vinyl siding lasts around 20 years, and stucco can last between 50 and 100 years.
• Stucco provides more insulation than many vinyl siding types—with the exception of foam-backed vinyl, which can cost as much as stucco.
• Both vinyl and stucco are customizable to suit your aesthetic.
• Whether it’s over wood siding, brick, or another material, both types of siding can be installed over current exterior walls.
• High-end vinyl can cost as much as stucco, but midrange options are often cheaper than traditional stucco.
• Stucco repair may be more expensive than vinyl repair, but it’s less likely to need repairs over time.

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DIY vs. Professional Stucco Siding

Applying stucco is difficult. Small mistakes can lead to future issues if it’s not installed correctly.

DIY

Depending on your skill level and the type of stucco finish, it is possible to do-it-yourself (DIY). Mixing synthetic stucco may be too complex for some, but the job doesn’t require many specialized tools. Repairing stucco is a much easier DIY job than replacing it.

Consider your home’s shape and size. If it’s more than one story or has many hard-to-access areas, installing new stucco on your own could be dangerous. The benefit of DIY is the savings on labor costs.

Professional

A professional installer understands the subtleties of stucco siding installation. Plus, they will:

• Have local permit knowledge.
• Potentially provide an installation warranty.
• Know where your home needs repair before applying stucco materials.

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How To Save on Stucco Siding

Follow these tips to save on your stucco installation home improvement project.

1. Leave existing siding in place.
2. Choose a lower-grade finish.
3. Opt for traditional stucco over synthetic.
4. Choose a simple texture for the final layer.

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Additional Stucco Siding Cost Factors

Labor

Applying stucco is very labor intensive, but choosing a less expensive contractor may cost you in the long run if the stucco is applied incorrectly. The stucco’s texture and your location also affect the cost.

Add-Ons

• Multiple coats to increase durability
• Colored stucco to skip painting
• Unique texture for the final stucco layer
• Sealant

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How To Hire a Pro

There’s a technique to stucco application, so hiring a pro is highly recommended. Consider the following during your search:

• Timeline: Many contractors are booked months in advance. If it’s an emergency, finding a contractor that specializes in stucco may be difficult.
• Cost: Stucco installation cost is influenced by a variety of factors. Review your budget and know what your top number is.
• Reference: Speak with customers who have had stucco installed by the contractor you’re considering, preferably customers with years-old stucco since it can take time for issues to show.

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Our Conclusion

Stucco is a unique home siding type that improves curb appeal, value, and energy efficiency. While it is possible to install it yourself, we recommend hiring a professional siding contractor. You can save money by using traditional stucco, but synthetic (EIFS) stucco is more durable.

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FAQ About Stucco Siding

Should I choose synthetic or traditional stucco?

If it’s in your budget, choose synthetic stucco over traditional stucco. Synthetic stucco offers more insulation, but requires more skill during application because it can trap in moisture if applied incorrectly.

Does stucco siding increase the value of my home?

Well-maintained or new stucco siding can increase a home’s value. Stucco in need of repair likely won’t increase a home’s value.

What is the best time of year to install stucco?

The best time of year to install stucco is when temperatures are above 40 degrees Fahrenheit for at least 24 hours before and after installation.

How much does it cost to repair stucco?

The cost to repair stucco can range from $8–$50 per square foot. Homeowners can spend from $900 to $3,000 based on the type of fix.

Is stucco more expensive than siding?

Yes, stucco is more expensive than siding, but Hardie plank and certain types of high-end vinyl can be more expensive.

Is stucco cheaper than vinyl?

No, stucco is more expensive than most vinyl. Labor costs vary for each, but stucco is more durable than vinyl and provides better insulation.

Does stucco require painting?

Add FAQ content here.Stucco lasts longer with paint, so we recommend it. Climate affects how often a home needs to be painted, but assume it will need painting every five to 10 years.

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