You can find plenty of homes with stucco in Calgary. The popularity of stucco usage for houses is well-deserved. Unlike any other material, it provides durability, versatility, and cost-effectiveness. With the simple combination of aggregates, a binder, and water to make stucco, you might not realise different types exist. Learn everything about different stucco types and see which can provide the best for you!
Understanding the Various Types of Stucco in Calgary
When it comes to finding stucco in Calgary, you can expect two main types that exist. They are hard coat systems and external insulation and finishing systems (EIFS). Both look the same at first glance, but they are quite different.
Hard Coat Systems (Traditional Stucco)
In the past, stucco was made from sand, lime, and water. Fast-forward to today, traditional stucco in Calgary is mixed with cement. However, it’s rather versatile since other materials are used in it. For instance, those wanting to mold their stucco better can stick to lime as a core ingredient. As a result, you can easily make your exterior look smoothed out or roughened. Alternatively, if your aim is strength, sometimes traditional stucco can include glass fibres and acrylics for better reinforcement. When done right by a professional, traditional stucco can last for decades if properly maintained.
EIFS (Synthetic Stucco)
External insulation and finishing systems (EIFS) completely differ from traditional stucco. This type of stucco is also called synthetic stucco since it’s made of thinner layers of modified materials. Typically, the first layer is made of polystyrene foam board, a fibreglass mesh, and a finishing coat of acrylic resin. This stucco has garnered popularity for the unique benefits that it provides.
Here are a few examples of what synthetic stucco provides:
- Resistant to water: With acrylic resin present, it’s a great water barrier since it’s designed to keep water on the outside. If you’re concerned about water damage, synthetic stucco prevents it. So, you won’t need to worry about paying for any potential water repair damages in the future.
- Easier application: The beauty of synthetic stucco is its ease of application for various reasons. With it, you don’t need to worry about waiting too long for it to dry since it does so quickly. Also, applying it over a foam board is possible if you want to do something other than mesh. Once it finishes drying, you can expect it to come out rather evenly.
- Better movement: Another added benefit is how acrylic resin helps to give the stucco some more movement. What this does is make it less prone to cracking and breaking. Perfect if you wish to create protection from the elements.
- Great insulation properties: Calgary is no stranger to cold weather. It’s why many invest in trying to keep warm during winter months by adding more insulation. With synthetic stucco, you can rest assured you will stay warm as it has the highest R-value for stucco. As a result, you can expect to get better insulation than what you had before.
Golden Trowel Stucco has been providing Calgary homes and commercial properties with top-quality stucco services. For the past 20 years, we have been the number one stucco contractors in the Calgary and Greater Calgary area. We can completely change your property for the better with our stucco services, including stucco installations, stucco and exterior painting, and stucco repairs in Calgary. We’re flexible and ready to help you when you need it. Call us on 403-891-5343 anytime.
