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.
Even though the strength and durability of stucco are one of the biggest benefits, there are many other reasons why stucco might be the appropriate option for you.
- Stucco is tinted, not painted, which signifies that it can withstand fading for decades.
- Stucco can be textured for a unique and decorative look.
- With the correct maintenance, stucco can last a very long time, which means that you will not need to budget for its replacement anytime soon.
- Stucco gives great shelter against inclement weather.
- The cost of stucco itself is relatively low as opposed to other types of siding, making it an economical option.
Of course, along with the benefits that stucco has to offer, there are a few disadvantages too.
- Stucco requires professional installation, which can considerably increase the cost.
- Applying stucco can be a time-intensive project, with most professional stucco companies requiring several days to perform the job.
- Stucco can be damaged easily, requiring professional servicing.
An additional concern is whether you have enough money 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 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 best option for your properties, the next step is to find a quality stucco company that will do the job correctly and at a fair price. It can be difficult to find a reputable service provider without spending a lot of time on research, time that may be more profitably spent on your investing activities.
The good news is that Real Property Management Prosperity can help. Our Bensalem property managers can offer 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.