Popular throughout the American Southwest, stucco siding can be utilized in many climates and areas. This is because stucco is a cement-based plaster that is applied over a galvanized wire mesh called lathe, which helps the plaster adhere to the wall surface and adds strength. Stucco is usually applied in at least three coats, with the top or finish coat, including any color or special finishing techniques.
Although the strength and durability of stucco are one of the biggest benefits, there are several other reasons why stucco might be the perfect choice for you.
- Stucco is tinted, not painted, which means that it can withstand fading for decades.
- Stucco can be textured for a unique and decorative look.
- With proper maintenance, stucco can last a very long time, which means that you will not need to budget for its replacement anytime soon.
- Stucco provides excellent protection against inclement weather.
- The cost of stucco itself is relatively low when compared to other types of siding, making it an economical option.
However, along with the benefits that stucco has to offer, there are a few disadvantages too.
- Stucco requires professional installation, which can significantly increase the cost.
- Applying stucco can be a time-intensive project, with most professional stucco companies requiring several days to finish the job.
- Stucco can be damaged easily, which means it would need professional repairs.
One more concern is whether you can afford to depreciate the cost of your stucco finish over the span of several years. According to the IRS, a large improvement like adding stucco to your rental property’s exterior cannot be deducted as an expense but instead depreciated over time. This means that you will be able to deduct the full cost of the stucco siding, but not all at once. This makes a careful assessment of your cash flows and tax situation an integral aspect of your decision-making process.
If you decide that stucco is still the best option for your properties, the next phase is to engage the services of a quality stucco company that will conduct the job the right way and at a reasonable price. It can be quite tough to find a reputable service provider without spending a lot of time on research, time that may be more better spent on your investing activities.
Luckily, Real Property Management Traditions can help. Our Acton property managers can offer suggestions and advice about exterior siding options, as well as endorse quality stucco professionals dedicated to providing the highest customer service. To learn more, contact us today.