Stucco vs Plaster: What Are the Differences?

hand of worker using gypsum plaster ceiling joints at construction site
Are you wondering what the difference is between stucco and plaster?
Both stucco and plaster are commonly used in home exteriors. They form a protective outer shell on the outside of your home.
They protect your house from severe weather damage, such as water damage or significant drywall damage. However, stucco vs plaster is quite different. But what is stucco? And what is plaster?
Keep reading about our stucco vs plaster guide, the benefits of each, and your best options.
Durability and Longevity
The durability and longevity of both stucco and plaster are closely related. However, there are distinct differences.
Stucco is primarily made from cement, aggregates, and water; its longevity is usually 25 or 30 years. Plaster is made from lime, sand, water, and some hair or fiber, and with proper maintenance, it should typically last up to 100 years.
Plaster has a much higher percentage of lime than stucco, giving it a significant advantage in terms of longevity and durability as a construction material. Plaster is much more complex than stucco and less prone to cracking or chipping.
The Difference in the Cost
Stucco and plaster are two popular types of finish used in construction. The difference in the cost of each finish depends on the material quality, how labor-intensive work is, and where the work is being performed.
With stucco, the installation cost will be higher due to the complex process required to apply the stucco to the surface. Plaster is cheaper than stucco and is commonly applied as a thin layer in some areas and a thicker layer in wet areas.
Visual Differences Between Stucco vs Plaster
Stucco has a rougher, almost pebbled texture with variations and imperfections that add to the charm of the finish. It’s more coarse and designed to give an artisanal feel.
Plaster, however, is smoother with an even sheen and more uniform pattern. The consistency of the texture is usually finer than stucco, despite the same usage of sand and cement.
Additionally, plaster coats are usually thicker than stucco resulting in a more contemporary, sleek look. The finishes of the two materials vary greatly, so the desired effect and overall impression should be considered when deciding on the right choice.
The Difference in the Application Process
In terms of application, plaster is a tougher approach that requires a skilled hand, while stucco installation is much simpler and requires less precision. Stucco is a cement-based mixture made from sand, cement, and lime.
It is applied to the wall in layers and has to be mixed with water before installation. Plaster is a traditional building material composed of sand, lime, and cement.
It is a more fluid substance applied in thick coats, using a trowel to press it into the surface. The application process of stucco is a bit more involved than plaster.
As it is mixed with water, it has to be applied quickly. Therefore, You should hire a professional if you want an excellent finish.
Choose the Right Wall Finish for Your Home
Consider stucco vs plaster when figuring out what material works best for a project. Shop around and find the right product for you. Remember to contact a local stucco or plaster contractor to get expert advice.
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