When homeowners are overwhelmed with options for stucco companies, it’s tempting to go with what comes across as the easy or cheap choice. However, when it comes to your home, “easy” and “cheap” don't necessarily equal “best” and “safest.” This is especially true when it comes to stucco remediation and restoration—projects that require a certified stucco specialist. The Crucial Reason to Hire a Stucco Specialist Over DIY With the popularity of home improvement shows, we may think we can accomplish just about … [Read more...] about A Stucco Specialist is the Solution to Your Stucco Issue
Plaster vs Stucco: What’s the Difference?
If asked to compare two items, say, coffee and tea, you could easily find similarities–both can be served hot or cold, both can be made by a similar process. Yet, the differences are equally noticeable and significant; most obviously the taste and ingredients, while similar are not the same. This idea is comparable to the plaster vs stucco debate. Although, they have a similar process and appearance, they are quite different. Plaster vs Stucco: Let’s Start with What’s the Same While stucco and plaster do have key … [Read more...] about Plaster vs Stucco: What’s the Difference?
Why Stucco Below Grade is Problematic
Have you ever heard of “stucco below grade”? Like a failing grade, stucco that is below grade is not good. In this blog, the stucco specialists at Ai Restoration will explain what this phrase means, why it’s a problem, and what you can do about it. Stucco Below Grade: What Does It Mean? Welcome to Stucco Installation 101. In order to understand the problem, you need to first learn what stucco below grade means. In the case of stucco installation, “below grade” means that the stucco material was applied below … [Read more...] about Why Stucco Below Grade is Problematic
Stucco Efflorescence: Should You Be Worried?
We often have clients calling in a panic and wondering what the unfamiliar white substance is on their stucco. If you see a white coating on your stucco, it may be stucco efflorescence. So what exactly is stucco efflorescence and what should you do about it? Is it a problem? Read on to find out from the stucco experts at Ai Restoration. What is Efflorescence? Stucco efflorescence looks like a powdery white staining or substance that can grow on brick, mortar, or stucco materials. It happens when water dissolves … [Read more...] about Stucco Efflorescence: Should You Be Worried?
Can You Pressure Wash Stucco? Experts Say “No”
Spring cleaning season is nearly upon us. As daylight hours become longer, we have more time and energy to tackle the home maintenance tasks we've been putting off all winter. That being said, as you try to decide how to clean up your home’s exterior, one of the things you may be wondering is can you pressure wash stucco? In short, no. Read on to find out why not. Can You Pressure Wash Stucco? You should NEVER pressure wash your stucco. No matter how many DIY blogs may say it’s safe, we cannot disagree more … [Read more...] about Can You Pressure Wash Stucco? Experts Say “No”
Siding Alternatives for When You’re Tired of Vinyl
Vinyl siding is a type of siding often used on homes in the northeast. But if you’re looking to take your home’s exterior from basic to breathtaking, Ai Restoration has three brilliant recommendations for siding alternatives. Striking Siding Alternatives Stucco: To give your home an elegant facelift, stucco is an appealing choice for many homeowners. Stucco is great for your forever home or for a home you hope to resell some day. Stucco is a durable, energy-efficient, and water-resistant exterior, as long as … [Read more...] about Siding Alternatives for When You’re Tired of Vinyl
Types of Stone for Home Exterior that Impress
For a stunning exterior that is sure to impress, you’ll want to explore different types of stone for home exterior to discover what most appeals to you. Stone veneer, whether it's natural or manufactured, is a truly striking addition to any home. Homeowners and homebuyers, architects and designers, all flock to stone because it makes a statement. It is both stately and striking, and its stylish elegance will set your home apart. Top Tips when Considering Types of Stone for Home Exterior Texture: Most … [Read more...] about Types of Stone for Home Exterior that Impress
Stucco Finish Options: Popular Texture Choices
Whether you’re considering stucco finish options for your forever home or for a home that you plan to resell, there are a variety of popular texture choices. Here, we will explore the benefits of traditional finishes, as well as some up-and-coming trends in stucco. Stunning Stucco Finish Options Stucco is a classic and stylish exterior, which is why so many home and business owners choose it. Here are a few different options for stucco finishes: For Classic Elegance, Try the Lace Finish The lacy look is the … [Read more...] about Stucco Finish Options: Popular Texture Choices
Is Stucco Expensive? When Improperly Installed, Yes.
When we consider what we want out of a purchase, whether it’s a service or a product, the most important question we can ask is, “What am I getting for my money?” This is different from, “How much does it cost?” The first discusses quality and value; the second is a dollar amount. So, is stucco expensive? The experts at Ai Restoration offer a breakdown of the real value of quality stucco and experienced installation. Is Stucco Expensive? That Depends on Your Understanding of Cost Vs. Value The initial cost of … [Read more...] about Is Stucco Expensive? When Improperly Installed, Yes.
What Causes Delamination in Stucco?
Stucco exteriors should inspire confidence in homeowners. Why? Because stucco is incredibly durable and resilient. However, sometimes problems can arise with your stucco home. In this blog, our team of experts at Ai Restoration will explain what causes delamination in stucco and what you should do about it. What is Stucco Delamination? When stucco is installed, it is applied in separate layers. Each layer must completely cure, or dry, before the next layer can be applied. This ensures each layer adheres to the … [Read more...] about What Causes Delamination in Stucco?