Whether you’re giving your place a facelift or building a new home from scratch, stucco is a smart and stylish choice, especially for New Mexico’s often harsh climate. But if there’s one thing we know as leaders in stucco repair in Las Cruces, NM, it’s that not all stucco is the same.
That’s because of the sheer variety in the types of stucco finishes, all of which can add something distinct to your home’s exterior. From the polished look of a smooth surface to the handcrafted elegance of a Spanish lace finish, every choice boasts a distinct appearance and texture. The right one can transform your curb appeal and make the difference between a bland façade and a beautifully customized exterior.
Before diving into the different styles, let’s talk basics.
Stucco is a cement-based exterior coating that’s been around for ages because it’s tough, good-looking, and surprisingly versatile. It’s known for being able to withstand rain, sun, fire, and even time. You’ll often find it on homes in the Southwest, Mediterranean-style villas, and modern designs alike.
There are a few different kinds:
Regardless of which base you choose, you’ll still have the option to select the type of stucco finish that gives your home its final look and texture.
Finish refers to the appearance and texture of the plaster after installation.
If you love clean lines and a refined look, a smooth stucco finish might be your match. This style features a sleek, flat surface that complements modern or minimalist home designs perfectly. Think of it like the black-tie version of stucco: sleek, refined, and pulled together.
There’s a variation of smooth stucco called the Santa Barbara finish, which is just as smooth but has some subtle trowel marks that give it a bit of character.
Keep in mind: While they look sharp, smooth walls can show dirt and small cracks more easily. They’re also more demanding in terms of skill and time to get a flawless look, making them cost more than other styles.
No one wants to spend their weekends scrubbing walls, so if you want a lower-maintenance option, a textured surface might save you some headaches.
A sand stucco finish features a slightly gritty surface that complements most homes. It’s also called a float finish, and it offers a few different texture options. For example, it might contain fine sand for a soft and subtle surface texture, or coarse sand for a bolder, more pronounced texture that hides minor imperfections in the home’s exterior.
If you have an older home design with exterior flaws, a dash stucco finish is an excellent way to conceal them. This style has a heavy, bumpy, and speckled texture, similar to that found on mid-century ranch-style homes.
Contractors don’t apply this one with a trowel. Instead, they use a sprayer to “dash” the material on, creating that signature bumpy look. This finish can be light, medium, or heavy, depending on the number of layers, making it just right for homeowners seeking a textured appearance with plenty of durability and weather resistance.
Take your home from a bland beige box to a charming hacienda by swapping your plain-Jane walls for a lace finish. Applying a base coat, letting it cure, and then adding the top coat with a trowel or sponge creates a beautiful lace-like pattern that covers up patches, cracks, and inconsistencies.
For a truly unique look, you can’t go wrong with worm stucco. This rare finish lends homes an old-world charm and character, thanks to its grooved or channeled surface that looks like worm tracks. The mix includes chunky particles that get dragged through the surface like the trails worms leave in soil.
Worm stucco is popular for rustic-style homes, though it’s a bit trickier to repair and maintain. Proper installation by skilled contractors is key to preventing problems.
This style has a quirky name but is a tasteful blend of smooth and textured plaster surface. It’s mostly smooth, with random rough textures that add character while maintaining a relatively clean look. It’s subtle and stylish and adds just the right amount of visual interest without being overwhelming.
Feeling a little artsy? The comb finish might be right up your alley. It features lines or grooves created by dragging a toothed tool across the wet plaster.
It’s especially popular on accent walls or commercial buildings.
With so many types of stucco finishes available, how do you choose the one that’s best for your home?
Here are a few things to think about:
Feeling inspired but not sure where to start? We’ve got your back. At Engel Coatings Inc., we help folks all over Las Cruces bring their stucco dreams to life or fix that cracking nightmare you’ve been ignoring.
Whether you’re experiencing stucco problems or simply want to explore types of stucco finishes for a fresh look, call us at (575) 642-5481 for a free estimate and consultation. We’ll talk it through without any pressure.
