Here is a brief 2 page article which explains; What are the different types of Stucco, and how they are applied. In my experience, there is hard coat stucco, and synthetic stucco. If there is synthetic stucco on a home, then some Relocation Companies will not allow the home to become part of their "Buy Back" Program, if the company decides to transfer the employee to another area. Synthecic stucco is not a major issue if it is located where the elements, rain, cannot reach it. The problem with synthetic stucco is it is porous and the wood behind the stucco can get wet and will not dry out immediately, therefor causing degredation of the wood.
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Jim Schwarz says
Not quite correct. Stucco sometimes also refers to plaster (interior, gypsum, plaster-of-paris) as well as various interior wall finishes.
Synthetic stucco or “EIFS” is not only not porous, but new studies by the “Oak Ridges National Laboratory” (the authority on building testing) shows that EIFS manages moisture better than alternative building products. That means that rain does not penetrate the surface, and any moisture that does get around, is stopped by the trowel-applied weather barrier and has a safe way of draining out.
While EIFS projects from ’80-’99 are in the “red zone” for insurance companies, various improvements have been made since then to prevent water from becoming trapped. Not all EIFS is bad. For an overview of stucco vs. eifs, visit: http://torontostuccocontractor.com/blog/2008/11/stucco-vs-eifs/
Marc Pellettiere says
Thank You for the clarification. I absolutely want to make sure accurate date is posted. I have been told by a local contractor there have been some new improvements to synthetic stucco, and there are no longer any problems with its use in construction, and your post supports that information.
Thank You
Marc Pellettiere