Most of us know stucco as a finishing material composed of aggregate, binder and water. It is generally used on the exterior part of a building but can still be use as interior finishing. We know stucco as a very durable and stylish material for building great homes. We can even see many attractive and luxurious homes. But, do you know the origin of stucco homes?
Stucco has been accepted by many people in the US in the 19th century. Many stucco homes were then constructed and even up to the present Stucco homes stay popular. But then, stucco has existed even before Renaissance period. Ancient Greeks and Romans have applied stucco techniques in their wall frescoes and even Italians applied Stucco techniques during the Renaissance period. This paved way to its wide popularity in Europe.
Then, in the early 20th, Spanish-style buildings became famous which made a lot of people in the US decide to own a stucco home. A stucco home is long lasting and can resist even bad weather conditions because it absorbs moisture fast and yet remains strong. Another factor that makes stucco homes popular is the low cost of stucco. Stucco is relatively inexpensive compared to other construction materials and yet a stucco home can last for many, many years. It also requires low maintenance and unlike paint where it usually eradicates after a couple of years, stucco homes do not require painting and the style and strength remains for generations.
Stucco is often applied and works best on Spanish-style houses and Spanish-styled architecture. It can be formed in various styles and stonework. Although some people think that stucco is a "poor man's brick" but then it is the other way around because a lot of luxurious and attractive homes nowadays are made of stucco.
Due to its popularity, some homeowners started to use synthetic stucco in their homes in 1950s. There are types of synthetic stucco that are durable while others are not that impressive so in order for you to get the most benefit out of stucco then you should find a professional inspector or architect to check out the materials you are using for you stucco home.