Our Services
There are two different types of stuccos: Synthetic Stucco known as Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems and Traditional Stucco known as Portland Cement Plaster. Desert Sage Wall Systems, LLC. has much experience with both kinds of stuccos, we don’t prefer one over the other. We do as we are asked by our clients, making them proud of our work.
Ways to tell the difference between Synthetic Stucco (E.I.F.S.) and Traditional Stucco (Portland Cement Plaster) is to tap on the stucco; Synthetic Stucco is soft and sounds hollow when tapped, Traditional Stucco is hard and brittle, and sounds solid when tapped.
E.I.F.S. which is short for Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems, is an insulating, decorative and protective finish system for exterior walls that can be installed on any type of construction. It is the only exterior wall covering that insulates and provides weather protection in a selection of shapes, colors, and textures that can replicate almost any architectural style or finish material, or stand by itself as an architectural finish. While similar in appearance to stucco, E.I.F.S. is an exterior cladding system that consists of components and installation requirements very different from traditional stucco. E.I.F.S. also requires very different care and maintenance than it’s “look-alike”, traditional stucco. There are three layers to E.I.F.S., the Inner Layer which is foam insulation board that is secured to the exterior wall surface, often with adhesive, the Middle Layer is a polymer and cement base coat that is applied to the top of the insulation, then reinforced with glass fiber mesh, and last is the Exterior Layer which is a textured finish coat.
Traditional Portland Cement Plaster, Stucco is a time-tested exterior finish. It is a siding material made of Portland Cement, sand, lime, and water. It is applied in three coats over a lath base, it provides solid, durable and seamless home exterior. Traditional stucco is naturally resistant to fire. The most common feature of traditional stucco is over mesh, which uses a type of cement over a wire or wood lath. It usually has an expansive acrylic-polymer finish which will expand and contract with the weather. That inherent toughness is beautifully complemented by the variety of colors and textures available. Appearance is an important consideration in selecting a wall cladding.