Find top rated stucco installers in your area

Dryvit pricing hinges on three things: your home’s square footage, the layout’s complexity, and the finish you pick. Because those variables differ from house to house, contractors quote Dryvit on a per-project basis rather than a flat rate. Ask a licensed installer for a detailed estimate and breakdown of materials and labor. Professional installation is crucial—done right, Dryvit resists cracking and delivers the long-term energy efficiency it’s known for.

Keep stucco looking sharp by rinsing it with a garden hose a few times a year and walking the exterior for hairline cracks. Skip high-powered pressure washers—they can force water behind the finish. Start hosing at the bottom, work upward, and let gravity rinse the wall clean. If you spot cracks or chips, seal them right away to block moisture. Quick fixes and gentle cleaning go a long way toward preserving color and structure.

Think of stucco as a full-service siding and parging as a quick jacket for your foundation. Stucco covers entire walls, adds curb appeal, and offers some insulation. Parging is a thin coat on the lower portion of a masonry wall that mainly seals out moisture and pests. It’s protective, not decorative. If you need a complete exterior finish, go with stucco; if you just need to shore up a foundation, parging does the trick.

Stucco’s biggest enemies are moisture and movement. Water that seeps behind a poorly sealed wall can cause stains, bubbling, mold, and the white powder called efflorescence. Shifting soil or impact can crack the surface, letting in even more moisture. Catch small cracks early and keep sealant lines intact to head off bigger repairs. A quick yearly inspection and prompt patching usually keep these issues from snowballing.

In harsh climates, synthetic stucco—or EIFS—usually outperforms traditional mixes. The layered foam-and-finish system sheds water, flexes with temperature swings, and resists cracking better than cement-based stucco. You’ll pay a premium up front, but the added durability can cut future repair bills and improve energy efficiency. Ask a local pro which formulation handles your region’s heat, cold, or heavy rain the best.

If stucco isn’t the right fit, you have plenty of other siding choices. Vinyl is usually the budget pick and needs minimal upkeep. Fiber-cement and engineered wood blend durability with a wood-grain look. Brick or stone veneer costs more but delivers classic curb appeal and great longevity. Metal—including steel and aluminum—stands up well to fire and insects. Compare costs, maintenance needs, and local climate before settling on the best match for your home.