Exterior plaster, or what’s more commonly known as stucco, has been used as an architectural feature for centuries. Today, applying stucco to your home or business can give the building a timeless aesthetic. For some inspiration, here’s what you should know about the history of this famous architectural feature. 

Traditional Stucco

Traditional stucco, which had a lime base, was applied in a three-step process. The first layer, called the scratch coat, was comprised of just cement and sand. Once dry, builders would mar the finish, so the second layer, which contained the addition of lime, could adhere better. The second layer, also referred to as the brown coat, was always leveled until it was perfectly smooth.

The third layer, or finish coat, was then applied a week later after the second layer dried. Also comprised of cement, sand, and lime, the third layer was applied with a trowel and sculpted into intricate designs. The sand was often colored, and its coarseness varies depending on the scope of the project. 

Stucco became a popular finishing material almost immediately because it was incredibly durable and easy to mold into detailed patterns. Over the years, builders experimented with various compositions to find the best one for modern building techniques. 

Modern Stucco 

Although modern stucco is still made of cement and sand, it also contains polymers for strength and durability. Naturally, this addition changed the density of the material, thereby hindering its ability to facilitate airflow. As such, stucco must now be applied with air gaps. Otherwise, the wall beneath it will soak up moisture without drying out, and then mold develops.

Despite the change in stucco’s breathability over the years, its appeal has remained the same. Property owners who want to capture an old-world look and feel can do so with the help of stucco and an expert craftsman. 

Whether you want to preserve historical stucco or add decorative plaster to a new structure, you can count on Old World Plastering for outstanding work. Based in Cincinnati, OH, this plastering contractor is proud to serve homeowners, small businesses, and historical societies throughout the Greater Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky, Indianapolis, and Louisville areas. To see some of the work their meticulous craftsmen have completed, visit their website. To discuss your own needs, call (513) 481-1122.