Sometimes there is no need to reinvent the wheel. That’s exactly why so many Colorado Springs homeowners are replacing their current exterior siding with stucco. Stucco has been a trusted exterior finish for well over 1,000 years, and modern application techniques have made it better than ever. Today’s stucco can be applied directly on top of existing vinyl or brick siding using advanced multi-layer processes that improve durability, energy efficiency, and appearance all at once.
If you’ve been wondering whether stucco is the right choice for your Colorado Springs home, here’s a closer look at the benefits that make it one of the most popular exterior upgrades on the Front Range.
Exceptional Durability
One of the most compelling reasons Colorado Springs homeowners choose stucco is its remarkable lifespan. Even in Colorado’s extreme climate, a properly installed stucco exterior can last up to 50 years, which is up to twice as long as traditional vinyl siding. That kind of longevity means fewer replacements, less disruption, and a significantly lower cost over the life of your home.
Yes, stucco costs a bit more upfront than vinyl, which is why Greg Unseth Painting & Exteriors offers a three-part payment structure and additional financing options to make the investment more manageable. When you factor in the reduced maintenance costs and the extended lifespan, stucco consistently comes out ahead as the smarter long-term financial decision. And don’t forget that you can repaint your stucco exterior anytime you want a fresh look without replacing the siding itself. Learn more about our exterior painting services to see how we can keep your stucco looking great for decades.
Low Maintenance Exterior
Colorado may enjoy over 300 days of sunshine a year, but our weather is genuinely extreme. Hailstorms, high winds, freeze-thaw cycles, and intense UV exposure can take a serious toll on vinyl and brick exteriors, driving up maintenance needs and costs over time. Stucco handles all of it with remarkable resilience.
Unlike vinyl siding that can crack, warp, or fade, stucco is color-fast, chip and peel resistant, and weather-resistant by nature. Day-to-day maintenance is minimal. An occasional pressure wash to remove dirt, pollen, or hard water stains is typically all it needs to stay looking sharp. Many homeowners handle that themselves, or we can take care of it for you as part of our pressure washing services.
Beyond routine cleaning, the main thing to watch for is hairline cracking. Greg Unseth Painting & Exteriors provides a Limited Lifetime Warranty that covers uneven fading, chipping, peeling, and cracking wider than 1/8 inch for as long as you own your home. We’ll come out and address any covered issues at no cost to you.
Works With Any Architectural Style
A common misconception about stucco is that it only works on certain types of homes. In reality, stucco is one of the most architecturally versatile exterior finishes available. Our team can apply stucco to complement virtually any home style, from American bungalows and raised ranches to mid-century modern, mountain rustic, and contemporary designs.
Those sleek, clean-lined modern homes you see in design magazines? Many of them are finished in stucco. And once applied, your new stucco exterior can be painted any color you choose, giving you complete creative control over the final look. We can even incorporate carved designs, decorative accents, and custom detailing into your stucco finish for a truly one-of-a-kind exterior. Check out our stone veneer services to see how stone accents can complement a stucco exterior beautifully.
Fire Resistance
Stucco is naturally fire resistant, which is an increasingly important consideration for Colorado homeowners given the wildfire risk across the Front Range. Upgrading your exterior to stucco is a smart safety investment, and it’s one that many homeowners insurance companies recognize and reward.
Be sure to notify your homeowner’s insurance provider when you upgrade to stucco. Many insurers will reduce your annual premium by several hundred dollars simply for making the switch to a more fire-resistant exterior material. That’s real annual savings that add up meaningfully over the life of your stucco finish.
Improved Energy Efficiency
Your home’s exterior siding is one of its primary defenses against Colorado’s harsh winter weather, and stucco provides an insulated layer that helps keep conditioned air inside where it belongs. A well-installed stucco exterior can meaningfully reduce the load on your heating and cooling system, which translates directly to lower energy bills over time.
Not all stucco installations are created equal when it comes to energy efficiency, and installation method matters a great deal. At Greg Unseth Painting & Exteriors, we use the most advanced technology and proven application techniques available. We apply stucco directly on top of your existing brick or vinyl in a thorough multi-step, multi-layer process that takes two to three weeks to complete properly. This includes adding a fiberglass mesh to the base coat and applying elastomeric finish coats that improve insulation, ensure structural integrity, and create a uniform, beautiful appearance. Faster methods exist, but quality craftsmanship is always our top priority.
Easy Repairs
Despite our best efforts and the most advanced installation techniques available, hairline cracking can occasionally occur in stucco over time. Variables like ground conditions, foundation movement, and soil shifts can contribute to hairline cracks regardless of installation quality, which is why hairline cracking is not covered under our Limited Lifetime Warranty.
The good news is that stucco repairs are generally straightforward when addressed promptly. Once the underlying cause of cracking has been identified and resolved, our team can repair the affected areas quickly and effectively before they develop into larger problems. If you’re seeing hairline cracks and aren’t sure whether they’re the result of general wear or a structural concern, contact us for a free estimate. We’ll come out, assess the situation honestly, and let you know exactly what you’re dealing with. Visit our stucco repair page to learn more about how we handle stucco repairs throughout Colorado Springs.
Smooth or Textured Finish Options
Another common misconception about stucco is that it only comes in a rough, heavily textured finish. While classic stucco applications are visibly textured, modern techniques allow us to create a smooth, clean finish that works beautifully on contemporary and modern home styles. If you prefer a more traditional textured look, we can do that too. The choice is entirely yours.
Once the stucco is applied and cured, we paint the new exterior and reapply window frames and any other exterior elements that were removed during the installation process, leaving your home with a completely finished, polished appearance from top to bottom.
A Sustainable Siding Choice
The fact that stucco can last up to 50 years already makes it one of the more sustainable siding choices available, but the environmental benefits go beyond longevity. Stucco is naturally:
- Water shedding
- Breathable
- Impact resistant
- Fire resistant
- Color retentive
- Rot and fungus resistant
- All-weather friendly
- Recyclable
For homeowners who are thinking about the long-term environmental impact of their home improvement decisions, stucco checks a lot of important boxes.
Is Stucco Right for Your Colorado Springs Home?
Stucco has a compelling list of benefits, but it’s not the only option, and the right choice depends on your specific situation, budget, and goals. The team at Greg Unseth Painting & Exteriors is happy to come out to your home, assess the condition of your current exterior, and walk you through all of your options honestly. We’ll let you know how much life your current siding has left, whether repairs can extend its lifespan, or whether it’s time for a full upgrade to stucco or another product.
We provide free estimates for all of our work and will help you make the decision that makes the most sense for your home and your budget, without any pressure. Contact us today to get started.
Other Ways We Can Help
In addition to stucco installation and repair, Greg Unseth Painting & Exteriors offers a comprehensive range of exterior and interior services for Colorado Springs homeowners. From window and door replacement and fence installation to interior painting and decorative stone work, we are your one-stop contractor for everything your home needs inside and out. Reach out today to learn more about everything we offer.
