What is Stucco in Spanish House Styles?

Traditional stucco is a cement mixture used for siding, usually on Mission or other Spanish style homes. The cement is combined with water and inert materials such as sand and lime. Usually, wooden walls are covered with tar paper and chicken wire or galvanized metal screening. This framework is then covered with the stucco mixture. Sometimes, the cement mix is applied directly to specially prepared masonry surfaces.

Although stucco-sided homes became popular in twentieth century America, the concept of using cement mixtures in architecture goes back to ancient times. Wall frescoes by ancient Greeks and Romans were painted on fine-grained hard plaster surfaces made of marble dust, gypsum and glue. Stucco techniques were elaborated by the Italians during the Renaissance and spread through Europe. This marble dust compound could be molded into decorative shapes, polished to a sheen or painted.

Many homes built after the 1950's use a variety of synthetic materials which resemble stucco. Mock stucco siding is often composed of foam insulation board or cement panels secured to the walls. Although synthetic stucco may look authentic, real stucco tends to be heavier. Walls made of genuine stucco sound solid when tapped and will be less likely to suffer damage from a hard blow. Also, genuine stucco holds up well in wet conditions. Although it is porous and will absorb moisture, it will dry easily, without damage to the structure.

One type of synthetic stucco, known as EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems), has been associated with moisture problems. The underlying wood on EIFS sided homes may suffer rot damage. However, other types of synthetic stucco are quite durable. It's always a wise to have a professional inspection before purchasing a stucco-sided home.

Spanish style homes often have stucco siding plus a several other features. Such features of the Spanish house are relaxing courtyards, arched loggias and interior fountains, or porches. Brightly colored mosaics and or tile embellish sculpted stucco and stone facades extended the Spanish vernacular and are practiced with artful skill in modern revivals. Arched or horseshow entryways were also a result of Spanish influence seen on homes or buildings that represent Spanish home design.