Exterior Stucco, Stucco and Stucco Company: A Guide for Homeowners

If you are looking for a durable, versatile and attractive exterior finish for your home, you may want to consider stucco. Stucco is a plaster-like material that can be applied over various substrates, such as wood, metal, concrete or foam. Stucco can create a smooth, textured or patterned surface that can complement any architectural style. Stucco can also protect your home from weather, fire, insects and mold, and increase its energy efficiency and value. In this article, we will explain the basics of exterior stucco, stucco and stucco company, and why you should choose Holistic Contracting as your trusted stucco contractor.

What is Exterior Stucco?

Exterior stucco is a type of stucco that is applied to the outside of a building. Exterior stucco can be made of different materials, depending on the type of stucco system used. There are two main types of stucco systems: traditional and synthetic1.

• Traditional stucco is made of Portland cement, sand, lime and water. It is applied in three coats: a scratch coat, a brown coat and a finish coat. Traditional stucco is hard, durable and breathable, but it can also crack, fade and require more maintenance1.
• Synthetic stucco, also known as EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish System), is made of acrylic or polymer-based materials. It is applied in six layers: a water-resistant barrier, a drainage plane, an insulation board, a base coat, a reinforcing mesh and a finish coat. Synthetic stucco is lighter, more flexible and more resistant to cracking and fading, but it can also trap moisture, cause rot and attract termites1.

Exterior stucco can have various finishes, such as dash, float, smooth, cat face, Spanish lace, Santa Barbara, worm, English and lace and skip1. These finishes can create different effects, such as rough, smooth, sandy, swirled, stippled or patterned. Exterior stucco can also be tinted or painted in any color to match your preference.

What are the Benefits of Exterior Stucco?

Exterior stucco has many benefits for homeowners, such as:

• Beauty: Exterior stucco can enhance the curb appeal and aesthetic value of your home. It can create a unique and customized look that suits your taste and style. It can also blend well with other materials, such as stone, brick or wood2.
• Durability: Exterior stucco can last for decades, if properly installed and maintained. It can withstand harsh weather conditions, such as sun, rain, wind, snow and hail. It can also resist fire, insects and mold, and prevent water damage and corrosion2.
• Energy efficiency: Exterior stucco can insulate your home and reduce your heating and cooling costs. It can keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer, by reflecting or absorbing heat. It can also prevent air leakage and improve your indoor air quality2.
• Versatility: Exterior stucco can be applied to any shape or size of a building, and over any substrate, such as wood, metal, concrete or foam. It can also be modified to suit any climate or environment, by adjusting the mix, thickness and finish of the stucco2.

How to Choose a Stucco Company?

If you are interested in exterior stucco for your home, you will need to hire a professional stucco company to do the job. A stucco company can provide you with the best quality materials, tools, techniques and expertise to ensure a successful and satisfactory stucco installation. However, not all stucco companies are the same, and you will need to do some research and comparison before you make your decision. Here are some tips on how to choose a stucco company:

• Check their credentials: A stucco company should have a valid license, insurance and warranty to operate in your area. They should also have a good reputation and track record in the industry, and be affiliated with reputable associations or organizations, such as the Stucco Manufacturers Association or the EIFS Industry Members Association34.
• Ask for references: A stucco company should be able to provide you with references from their previous customers, who can attest to their work quality, professionalism and customer service. You can also check their online reviews, ratings and testimonials, or visit their portfolio or website to see their past projects and achievements3.
• Get estimates: A stucco company should be able to give you a free and accurate estimate of the cost and time of your stucco project, based on your specific needs and preferences. They should also explain the scope, details and specifications of their work, and answer any questions or concerns you may have3.
• Compare options: A stucco company should be able to offer you various options of stucco systems, materials, finishes and colors, and help you choose the best one for your home. They should also be able to provide you with samples, demonstrations and mock-ups of their work, and show you the pros and cons of each option3.

Why Choose Holistic Contracting?

Holistic Contracting is a stucco company that specializes in exterior stucco, stucco and stucco repair. We have been serving homeowners in Toronto and the GTA for over 15 years, and we have the experience, skills and knowledge to handle any stucco project, big or small. Here are some reasons why you should choose Holistic Contracting as your stucco contractor:

• Quality: We use only the highest quality stucco products and materials, from trusted and reputable manufacturers, such as LaHabra, Omega and Dryvit456. We also follow the industry standards and best practices, and ensure that our work meets or exceeds your expectations.
• Service: We provide excellent customer service, from start to finish. We listen to your needs and preferences, and offer you personalized and customized solutions. We communicate with you throughout the process, and keep you updated on the progress and status of your project. We also respect your property and clean up after ourselves.
• Warranty: We stand behind our work, and offer you a 10-year warranty on our stucco installation and repair. We also honor the manufacturer’s warranty on the stucco products and materials we use. If you have any issues or problems with your stucco, we will fix them promptly and professionally.

If you are looking for a reliable, reputable and affordable stucco company, look no further than Holistic Contracting. We are your one-stop shop for all your exterior stucco, stucco and stucco repair needs. Contact us today for a free estimate, and let us transform your home with stucco. You will not regret it!