Popular throughout the American Southwest, stucco siding can be utilized in several 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.
Whereas the strength and durability of stucco are one of the biggest benefits, there are more than a few other reasons why stucco might be the perfect choice for you.
- Stucco is tinted, not painted, which means that it is able to withstand fading for decades.
- Stucco can be textured for a unique and decorative look.
- With appropriate maintenance, stucco can last a very long time, which means that you will not need to budget for its replacement anytime soon.
- Stucco provides exceptional defense against inclement weather.
- The cost of stucco itself is relatively low when related to other types of siding, making it an economical option.
Of course, with 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 finish the job.
- Stucco can be damaged easily, necessitating expert repairs.
One more concern is whether you have enough money to depreciate the cost of your stucco finish over the course 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 a critical part of your decision-making process.
If you choose stucco as still the best choice for your properties, the following step is to locate a quality stucco company that will do the job correctly and at a reasonable price. It can be trying to find a reputable service provider without spending a lot of time on research, time that may be more better spent on your investing activities.
The good news is that Real Property Management Advisors can help. Our Round Rock 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.