
Then a layer of furred chicken wire (meaning it sticks off the wall a little bit) is applied. More specifically, a lath of an asphalt-infused paper is applied over a weather-resistant barrier. The finish coat is not considered a step because it is needed on every type of application that is used, so they are mainly referring to the stages up until the finish coat. In industry terms - lath, scratch and brown. Three coat is the original stucco process, consisting of paper and wire, a scratch coat, a brown coat, and a finish, or “top” coat.

#Versus stucco crack#
A crack can usually be sealed and covered with new stucco. Stucco can crack for a variety of reasons, including weather extremes and foundation settling. Fortunately, today’s EIFS repels moisture just as efficiently as traditional stucco. Early versions of EIFS didn’t do a great job of protecting homes from moisture damage. EIFS also provides significantly better insulation than traditional stucco. It is also less susceptible to fading and cracking.
#Versus stucco install#
EIFS is the more popular choice for homes with wood framing.ĮIFS is easier and less time consuming to install than traditional stucco. Portland cement stucco is most often installed on homes with masonry or concrete walls. The first layer of EIFS is glued and/or mechanically fastened to the exterior wall. EIFS is made of a layer of polystyrene insulation board covered with one finish layer of stucco. It’s sometimes referred to as synthetic stucco. Exterior Insulation and Finish System (EIFS) is another form of stucco. Once the stucco dries, the installers repeat the process of applying the stucco and allowing it to set.

If the wall is another material or if it has been painted, metal lath must be installed first. The first layer can go directly on a concrete or masonry wall. This amounts to a scratch coat, a base coat, and a colored or finish coat. Traditional or portland cement stucco is usually applied to a surface in three layers. In areas with frequent heavy rainfall, stucco isn’t a great choice. However, stucco can only absorb so much water. This means that moderate amounts of moisture can pass through it without reaching the exterior walls of a house.

Stucco is a type of plaster or cement mixed with a binder that adds insulating abilities. Stucco is a popular exterior finish for Mediterranean- and American southwest-style homes. This is because each material’s popularity is heavily influenced by the climate and architectural style of a region. Where you live often determines which types of exterior house cladding you are most familiar with. Both stucco and traditional siding insulate your home and protect it from the elements.
