Siding vs stucco is a debate that many homeowners face when deciding how to finish their home’s exterior. Both options offer unique advantages, from the timeless, textured look of stucco to the wide variety of styles and affordability that siding provides.
In this post, we’ll explore the main differences between these two popular materials, weighing their pros and cons to help you make the best choice for your home’s design and budget. We serve the entire Sacramento area including Roseville and Rocklin with everything from general contracting to home painting.
What Is Siding?
Siding is the exterior cladding or covering of a building. As a barrier against weather, moisture, and pests, it protects your home from the elements while also adding an attractive finish. There are several types of siding materials to choose from. Here are some of the most common types:
- Vinyl siding: Made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride) plastic, vinyl siding is generally the most affordable. It doesn’t require painting and is low maintenance. Plus, it comes in a variety of textures, colors, and styles, including some that mimic wood.
- Fiber cement siding: Fiber cement siding is made from a blend of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. It’s fire-resistant and very durable, with a lifespan of 50+ years. Fiber cement siding is also resistant to rot, pests, and extreme weather. Like vinyl siding, it comes in a variety of textures and styles.
- Wood siding: Natural wood such as cedar, pine, or redwood offer a beautiful finish that is timeless. Wood siding is eco-friendly and biodegradable, but requires much more maintenance, like regular sealing, staining, or painting.
- Aluminum siding: Siding made from aluminum is lightweight, low maintenance, and resistant to fire, pests, and rot. However, it’s more susceptible to denting and comes in limited styles.
Pros and Cons of Siding
When discussing siding vs stucco, it’s important to look at both the advantages and disadvantages of each. Here are the pros and cons of siding:
Pros:
- Protection against the elements: Siding protects your home from rain, wind, sun, and temperature changes, creating a durable barrier that keeps out moisture and prevents structural damage.
- Aesthetic versatility: Because siding comes in so many different materials, styles, textures, and colors, it can be made to fit just about any architectural style or personal preference.
- Energy efficiency: Certain styles of siding, like insulated vinyl or fiber cement, improve energy efficiency by adding a layer of insulation to your home.
- Low maintenance options: Many siding materials, like vinyl and metal, require little upkeep.
- Durability: Siding materials like fiber, cement, metal, and brick veneer are highly durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions.
- Cost options: Siding is available at various price points, with vinyl being one of the most affordable and materials like stone veneer or fiber cement catering to higher-end projects.
Cons:
- Prone to fading: With so many days of sun in Sacramento, siding like vinyl is especially prone to fading.
- Cracking: Siding can crack in various conditions. For example, extreme heat can cause vinyl siding to crack, while strong winds can bring debris that damages other types.
- Maintenance: Some materials, like wood and fiber cement, have to be repainted or sealed periodically to retain their appearance.
What is Stucco?
Stucco is a durable, cement-based exterior finish that has been used for centuries to protect homes and other buildings. It is applied in multiple layers over a supportive base to create a textured surface without any seams. Stucco is especially popular in Mediterranean, Southwestern, and Spanish-style architecture, but it works on a variety of styles.
Stucco is traditionally made of cement, sand, lime, and water, but modern stucco often includes polymers and other synthetic additives that improve its flexibility. It can be finished in smooth, textured, or patterned designs and is available in multiple colors, as pigments can be added to the mixture or painted over it.
Pros and Cons of Stucco
Stucco is popular, especially in the Southwest, and comes with a number of advantages. Some of the pros of stucco include:
- Durability: Stucco is resistant to fire, pests, and rot, lasting for years. It performs especially well in warm, dry climates like Sacramento.
- Low maintenance: Once applied, stucco does not need much upkeep.
- Versatility: Stucco can be tinted and textured to achieve a variety of aesthetics.
- Seamless: Unlike siding, stucco has no seams or joints, reducing the risk of water infiltration.
- Longevity: With proper maintenance, stucco can last for fifty or more years.
- Insulation: Stucco naturally provides insulation for your home, helping you save money on heating and air conditioning.
Some of the cons of stucco include:
- Expensive: Stucco can be expensive, often costing more than siding due to the amount of labor required to apply.
- Climate sensitivity: Stucco is prone to cracking in areas with extreme temperature fluctuations or high humidity.
- Moisture issues: Improper installation can lead to moisture buildup and mold problems, especially in wet climates.
Is Stucco Cheaper than Siding?
When comparing siding vs stucco, it’s important to look at the costs of these exterior options. In general, stucco is more expensive than siding. Although cement material is fairly inexpensive, the application is labor-intensive. Stucco usually requires at least three layers, with drying time between each.
However, there are some siding materials that can cost more than stucco. Although vinyl siding is on the cheaper end, stone veneer and brick veneer siding are premium options that usually cost more than stucco.
How Much Does Stucco Cost Per Square Foot?
The average cost of stucco in Sacramento is around $11,000. The exact amount varies, depending on the square footage that needs to be covered and the type of stucco used.
In general, stucco costs between $7 and $9 per square foot. A 2,000-square-foot home, for example, might cost between $14,000 and $18,000. If you opt for synthetic stucco, which is less prone to cracking and better at insulating, expect to pay between $7 and $12 dollars per square foot.
Can You Replace Siding with Stucco?
Yes, you can replace siding with stucco, but the process is a bit more involved than simply swapping materials. Transitioning from siding to stucco requires proper preparation so that the stucco will adhere correctly and perform well. It’s a major project, but it can be worth it for better energy efficiency and improved curb appeal.
First, your contractors will remove the existing siding, whether it’s vinyl, wood, or another material. This will also include removing any underlying sheeting or materials that aren’t compatible with stucco. They’ll check the wall’s framing and insulation for damage and make any necessary repairs. At this point, the walls will be fully open, which can be a good time for upgrades like additional outdoor outlets and fixtures, diagonal strapping, or new windows.
From there, the contractors will install a moisture barrier, like house wrap or roofing felt to protect the wall from moisture infiltration. They’ll add either a metal lath or foam board insulation for the base, depending on the type of stucco. Finally, the contractors will add the three coats of stucco, waiting for each to cure properly between layers.
Siding vs Stucco Conclusion
When it comes to siding vs stucco, both types of exteriors can be a great option. Some types of siding can be more cost-effective than stucco, but stucco is low-maintenance and works well in Sacramento’s climate. The best choice will depend on your budget as well as the look you’re trying to achieve.
Now that you’ve weighed the pros and cons of siding vs stucco, you may be ready to make a choice for your home. At LNL Construction, we have the experience and dedication to craftsmanship you need for your exterior project. Whether you opt for siding or stucco, we can revitalize your home’s exterior. Contact us today for an estimate.
