Throughout the American Southwest the stucco siding is widely used because it can be utilized in a variety of climates and regions. The reason for this is that 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 gives it resilience. In general, stucco is applied in three layers at minimum, with any color or special finishing techniques added to the top coat.
Pros of Stucco Siding for Your Rental
Stucco’s durability and strength are indicators of a long-lasting investment, not just benefits.
- Stucco is tinted, not painted, so it can withstand fading for decades.
- Stucco can be textured for a unique and decorative look.
- Stucco can last a very long time with proper upkeep, so you won’t need to replace it anytime soon.
- Stucco delivers excellent protection against inclement weather.
- The cost of stucco itself is inexpensive when weighed against other types of siding, making it an economical option.
Potential Drawbacks
There are unquestionably some drawbacks to consider in addition to the advantages that stucco provides.
- Stucco requires professional installation, which can drastically increase the cost.
- Applying stucco can be a time-intensive project, with most professional stucco companies taking several days to finish the job.
- Stucco can be damaged easily and calls for professional repairs.
You should also consider whether you can afford to depreciate the cost of your stucco finish over a number of years. As attested by 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. In other words, you can deduct the total cost of the stucco siding but not as a whole. Because of this, diligently assessing your cash flows and tax situation is a crucial step in the process of making choices.
If you find that stucco is still the best option for your properties, the next thing you need to do is pick a reliable company that can complete the job accurately and reasonably priced.
It could be hard to find a reputable service provider if you don’t put in a lot of time in your investigation. You can get help from Real Property Management Instant Equity. Our Kyle property managers are capable of providing recommendations and counsel regarding exterior siding options, as well as recommending quality stucco professionals who are driven to provide the best possible client care. For extra details, contact us online or call 512-500-0422.