Stucco siding is widely used throughout the American Southwest due to its versatility in various temperatures and regions. This is because stucco is a cement-based plaster applied over a galvanized wire mesh called a lathe, which helps the plaster adhere to the wall surface and adds strength. On average, stucco is applied using at least three coatings, with the final coat including any color or special finishing techniques.
Pros of Stucco Siding for Your Rental
In addition to its durability and strength, stucco offers the benefit of being a long-lasting investment.
- Stucco is tinted, not painted, so it can withstand fading for decades.
- Stucco can be textured for a unique and decorative look.
- With proper maintenance, stucco can last a very long time, saving you money on future replacements.
- Stucco furnishes excellent protection against inclement weather.
- Since the cost of stucco is relatively affordable when compared to other types of siding, it is an economical option.
Potential Drawbacks
Undeniably, there are certain drawbacks to consider alongside the advantages that stucco provides.
- Stucco requires professional installation, which can greatly increase in cost.
- Applying stucco can be a time-intensive project, with most professional stucco companies demanding several days to finish the job.
- Stucco can be damaged easily, demanding professional repairs.
Another issue to take into account is whether you can afford to depreciate the cost of your stucco finish over multiple years. According to the IRS, a significant improvement like adding stucco to your rental property’s exterior cannot be deducted as an expense but rather depreciated over time. This denotes you can deduct the total cost of the stucco siding, but it cannot be done in one sitting. This makes sensibly assessing your cash flows and tax situation a key aspect of how you make choices.
If you believe that stucco is still the best option for your properties, the next step is to identify a quality company that will do the task correctly and at an appropriate cost.
Finding a reputable service provider can be quite challenging, particularly if one is reluctant to invest a lot of time in the investigation. Real Property Management Teyata can assist you. Our Bellingham property managers are here to help you with any questions or concerns you may have about exterior siding options. We can also connect you with quality stucco professionals who prioritizes excellent customer service. For extra details, contact us online or call 360-856-1010.