It is easy to hear rumors about stucco. Some are based in truth, most get stretched after a few retellings. Let’s bust a few myths, especially about Albuquerque stucco and what repairs really take.
Myth 1: Stucco Needs Constant Repair
The truth: If well done, stucco can last 50 years with only simple maintenance. What you hear about endless cracks and cost? Those are mostly from poor original work, not the material itself.
Where It Goes Wrong
Thin coats, bad mixes, skipped mesh, or no topcoat mean repairs come soon. Reliable stucco companies Albuquerque do much better, and these problems fade.
Not every crack means big trouble. Some hairlines are normal. Only cracks that grow or change color matter.
Myth 2: Stucco Always Cracks in Desert Climates
Cracking can happen, but not “always.” Albuquerque’s weather pushes building materials, but good stucco repair Albuquerque minimizes problems. Flexible mesh, acrylic finishes, and proper curing help a lot.
Myth 3: Recladding with Stucco Fixes All Issues
If you are having leaks, rot, or deep cracks, coating over with new stucco will not fix it. Repairs depend on what is underneath, sometimes wood is rotten or mesh has rusted out. Top stucco contractors Albuquerque explain when patches are not enough.
Sometimes, the best solution is replacing the damaged section fully. Patching over failed material never lasts.
Myth 4: New Acrylic Stucco Is Always Better
Acrylic is good for color, resistance to some cracks, and flexibility. But not always the best for older, historic homes. The material must match your original for repairs to last.
Ask companies like Stucco Albuquerque Contractors LLC or Stucco Albuquerque LLC for honest opinions, not just upsells.
Myth 5: Anyone Can Match Color at Home Depot
Paint matches fade quickly. Professional color is custom-mixed. If you want your Albuquerque stucco repair invisible, trust the pros. Your home’s sun exposure and wall age matter more than the name on a paint card.
Myth 6: All Stucco Companies Are the Same
All do the same basic job: patch cracks, color coat, clean up. But quality varies a lot. Local experience, knowing the soil, sun, and style, matters. Some stucco companies in Albuquerque may only work on new builds, while others focus on repair and restoration.
Myth 7: Stucco Is Cheaper Than Everything Else
Initial cost is usually lower than brick or fancy siding. But total costs, including repairs, depend on quality and maintenance.
Here is a simple cost overview:
| Material | Install Cost (per sq ft) | 20 Year Maintenance |
|---|---|---|
| Stucco | $6-$12 | Low, if well cared for |
| Wood Siding | $9-$17 | High, repaint and treat |
| Vinyl | $7-$12 | Medium |
| Brick | $14-$22 | Very low |
What Does This Mean?
It means stucco is a good choice, not always the best, and it still needs skill to be done well.
Myth 8: You Can Ignore Small Damage
Every year, I see someone wait too long. Tiny cracks stretch, let in water, then the repair bill triples. Routine checks keep your cost low.
Walk your house twice a year. If you find new cracks, deal with them now. Delays never save money with stucco.
Should You Trust Online Reviews?
They are helpful, but not perfect. Some reviews are fake, and few people post about jobs that went well. Look for patterns: are people happy with repairs three years later?
Trust companies that handle complaints with real solutions, not just apologies.
What About Paint and Finish Options?
Many people think paint solves everything. Good paint helps, but can peel if walls are already failing. A real repair means fixing underlayers first, then finishing with the right paint.
Finishing Thoughts
Do not believe every rumor. Stucco Albuquerque is a strong, classic choice, but it is not magic. Repairs last when matched to your original walls, not just covered up fast. Use local companies with real experience, check reviews with care, and keep small fixes on your to-do list. That, more than any myth, will keep your home in good shape for years.
