Stucco is a common theme across the United States. People see it on homes, admire it, and purchase homes that are finished in this widespread material. Many even choose it to replace the existing siding on their homes. Still, many aren’t sure of exactly what it is and what lies beneath its decorative finish.
In short, stucco is a layered finish that consists of cement, powdered limestone, sand, and water. Cement helps give it sturdiness and structural integrity while sand acts as a binding agent and limestone serves as a sealant against moisture. Water brings all those dry ingredients together and makes them flexible enough to apply. After stucco is applied in its wet, pliable form, it dries to a hard, durable finish. Stucco replacement is necessary when the process above is not followed to a tee and results in cracks or water damage.