Popular throughout the American Southwest, stucco siding can be utilized in many climates and areas usually, because stucco is a cement-based plaster that is applied over a galvanized wire mesh called lathe, which would then help 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.
Even though the strength and durability of stucco are one of the biggest benefits, there are plenty of other reasons why stucco might be the right 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 tough protection against inclement weather.
- The cost of stucco itself is relatively low as compared to other types of siding, making it an economical option.
Of course, after all 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 complete the job.
- Stucco can be damaged easily, requiring professional repairs.
One other major concern is whether you can afford to depreciate the value 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 rather 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 essential part of your decision-making process.
If you decide that stucco is still the ideal choice for your properties, the next stage is to find a quality stucco company that will do the job correctly and at a fair price. It can be challenging to obtain a trustworthy service provider without wasting a lot of time on research, time that may be more better used on your investing activities.
Fortunately, Real Property Management First Choice can assist you. Our Augusta property managers can submit suggestions and advice about exterior siding options, as well as recommend quality stucco professionals dedicated to providing the highest customer service. To learn more, contact us today.