Wondering what’s better for you financially: stucco or siding?
Let’s take a look!
The Stucco vs Siding Costs Breakdown
What is stucco?
Stucco is a material made from an aggregate, such as sand or crushed lime, mixed with water and a bonding agent, Portland cement. Stucco is then applied to a surface, usually over a wooden or metal lath.
What is siding?
Siding is the exterior covering of a building in which a material is applied to the sheathing to provide protection from the weather. Vinyl siding, aluminum siding, and wood siding are all common types of siding.
What is the cost of stucco vs. siding?
The cost of stucco vs. siding can vary depending on a number of factors, including the material used, the complexity of the installation, and the region in which you live. Generally speaking, stucco is more expensive than siding.
Stucco has a few key benefits that may make it worth the extra expense. First, stucco is extremely durable and can last for decades with proper maintenance. It is also fire-resistant and can help to reduce energy costs by providing insulation. Additionally, stucco can be customized to match any colour or style and gives homes a distinctive look that many homeowners find appealing.
The approximate cost of stucco can range from $6 to $10 per square foot, while the cost of vinyl siding is around $3 to $5 per square foot. Aluminum and wood siding are also less expensive than stucco, with costs ranging from $1 to $4 per square foot.
Siding is less expensive than stucco, but it requires frequent maintenance and can take a toll on your energy bills. It is also more susceptible to damage and deterioration in extreme weather conditions. While siding is less expensive than stucco, its cost can add up over time when you factor in the cost of repairs and replacements.
Reasons Why Stucco is More Expensive as Compared to Siding
1. Stucco is extremely durable
Stucco is an extremely durable material, which means it will last for decades with proper maintenance. The lifespan of stucco greatly depends on the quality of installation and the type of aggregate used.
2. Stucco is fire-resistant
Stucco can help reduce energy costs because it provides insulation against extreme weather elements. In addition, stucco’s high aluminum oxide content makes it fire-resistant, so homes are less likely to be damaged or destroyed during a fire-related emergency.
3. Customizable colour and styles
Stucco can be customized to match any style or design preferences and gives homes a distinctive appearance that many homeowners find appealing. Unlike vinyl siding, which comes in limited styles and colours, stucco can be painted in any colour you want.
4. Lower long-term cost
The approximate cost of stucco can range from $6 to $10 per square foot, while the cost of vinyl siding is around $3 to $5 per square foot. Aluminum and wood siding are also less expensive than stucco, with costs ranging from $1 to $4 per square foot.
Reasons Why Siding is Less Expensive as Compared to Stucco
1. Requires frequent maintenance
Like stucco, siding is extremely durable, but it requires more frequent maintenance. For example, it is important to get rid of any vegetation or weeds growing around your home’s foundation because their roots can damage the exterior of your house over time. Siding also needs to be cleaned regularly so mildew doesn’t form and becomes difficult to remove. This means more time spent climbing ladders and potentially using dangerous chemicals like bleach.
2. Susceptible in extreme weather conditions
Siding is less fire-resistant than stucco, and therefore, in extreme weather conditions such as intense heat or cold, it could cause further damage or prevent the ability to properly maintain the interior of your home. While siding is less expensive than stucco, the cost can add up over time when you factor in the cost of repairs and replacements.
3. Limited styles and colours
Unlike stucco and other types of siding materials (aluminum, wood), vinyl siding comes in very limited styles and colours. For homeowners who want to customize their home’s exterior, this could be a problem.
4. It doesn’t provide insulation for your home
Insulation can affect energy bills because it keeps out extreme weather elements such as cold or heat. Vinyl siding doesn’t provide insulation like stucco does, which means your home may not stay comfortable during hot or cold temperatures while also costing you more money on your energy bill each month.
5. Less durable
Although vinyl siding is the least expensive option, it does not last as long as aluminum or wood siding. Over time, it can become unappealing and difficult to maintain. Because of this, many homeowners with vinyl siding will opt to replace their existing cladding in order to get a fresh, new look for their home’s exterior at a lower cost than stucco.
There are many factors to consider when choosing between stucco and siding for your home. Although stucco is more expensive than vinyl siding, it is more durable and customizable, and it provides insulation for your home. Siding is less expensive than stucco, but it requires more frequent maintenance and is less durable. In the long run, stucco may be a better investment for your home.
