Stucco is a traditional option for a home exterior and comes in a wide range of textures and patterns. It typically has a mottled or grainy appearance that conveniently hides flaws and stains. If you're looking to use this material for your home, you have a choice between traditional stucco and synthetic stucco, also called Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS). Here’s a guide to help you choose between these options.

What Are the Differences Between Traditional & Synthetic Stucco?

1. Different Materials

Traditional stucco has a lath or mesh base to support it. To create the material, the manufacturer combines Portland cement, sand, lime, and water and then applies it to the base while it’s still wet, layering several coats over each other. This creates a stiff finish that is overall stronger than synthetic stucco but prone to cracking because it isn't especially flexible. 

Synthetic stucco uses an insulating base such as foam board and is made with acrylic resin or polymer instead of cement. A fiberglass mesh is included for additional support. The last layer is a textured finish that imitates the look of traditional stucco. Synthetic stucco is less brittle, however, due to its layers of flexible materials.

2. Energy Efficiency

Because synthetic stucco incorporates a layer of insulation as its backing instead of a layer of permeable mesh, it slows the transfer of heat between the indoors and outdoors. This means your home's cooling and heating systems won’t have to work as hard because the house stays at a comfortable temperature longer. When you choose synthetic, you use less electricity and fuel for your HVAC system and save on your energy bills throughout the year.

3. Water Resistance

While the acrylic material used in synthetic stucco is somewhat water-resistant, it absorbs more water than traditional stucco. If the wall does not dry out thoroughly, your home may develop damaging wood rot and mold growth. This means traditional stucco is often the right choice in damp areas, while synthetic is more popular in drier and hotter climates.

If you're looking to finish or repair your home's exterior with synthetic stucco, choose Canyon State Enterprises, LLC in Kingman, AZ. This full-service Mohave County construction crew has years of experience and is certified for both residential and commercial projects. For a free estimate, call them at (928) 757-2071 or learn more about their services online.