Stucco vs Plaster

When considering projects involving walls, you may be thinking about stucco vs plaster. While both materials get used in the construction and repair of interior and exterior walls, it’s important to know there are some differences between the two mediums. In other words, while they have similar uses, stucco, and plaster are not the exact same.

How Stucco and Plaster Differ

Material Composition

The primary difference between stucco and plaster is material composition. The exact chemical breakdown of stucco and plaster reveals more similarities than differences, however.

The product can be altered depending on how the items mix together and the exact concentration of each ingredient.

• Stucco = A combination of cement (Portland cement), lime, sand, and water
• Plaster = A mix of lime, sand (usually gypsum), and water 

Application 

Plaster tends to be easier to apply, as the substance has a more flexible consistency compared to stucco.

Stucco application requires a more experienced hand, depending on factors such as physical placement, elemental exposure, and any moisture/dryness existing on the fixture during the application process. Applying stucco typically requires additional time since the surfaces have to be properly primed before the stucco can be properly installed.

Decorative and Versatile 

Both products have versatility in terms of decorative uses. Stucco is more popular for exteriors though it can be used for interiors when applied with knowledge of the product.

Plaster tends to be used for interiors because of its composition as its lighter materials make for a more flexible compound. Gypsum based plaster is softer than Portland cement and plasterers can use color tints but it can be tricky as the  material is so white. Stucco does not need to be painted as the color pigment is introduced during its creation. Both materials can be painted later though if you want to update the wall color. 

Durability

Vapor and moisture management, which is essential to interior and exterior uses, can be a real advantage when using plaster and stucco. Additionally, since both plaster and stucco tend to be made from similar materials, they both work as fire-resistant building materials that do a fantastic job absorbing sound. Stuccos seems harder than stone when it dries, while plaster tends to be more malleable without sacrificing its strength and durability.

Benefits of Using Stucco

Stucco provides a number of benefits particularly here in our Southern California San Diego climate.

Stucco provides a tough exterior that resists woodpeckers, pests, and other environmental challenges. Stucco is used around the world because it can withstand the sun, rain, and freezing. It provides strength while still being a beautiful medium for interior and exterior walls.

Stucco is known for its versatility and aesthetic appeal by architects and builders. It can be applied to almost any form or shape and when hardened, it lasts for many years. Stucco can be used in a wide variety of styles including Modern, Tuscan, and Hacienda

The texture and color of stucco are only limited by the designer’s imagination and the talent of the stucco installer. A popular decorative finishing material, it can be applied in a wide array of colors. Painting is not needed for stucco. The texture is controlled by the aggregate size, finish mix consistency, and the use of special treatment techniques.

Benefits of Plaster

There are benefits to using plaster over drywall, another common interior wall material. Plaster is known to be soundproof as it has a high density, making it more soundproof than drywall.

Plaster is energy efficient. The thickness of plaster walls provides better temperature control and insulation. 

Like stucco, plaster is durable. It is more durable than drywall because of its thickness. This makes plaster an ideal choice when building for the long term.

Plaster also has higher tensile strength and helps make structures more stable, unlike drywall.  

Plaster can be used to create a sophisticated finish. It can be used to create textured, glossy, or smooth finishes. The rough texture is characteristic of historic homes, and one cannot replicate it using drywall. 

Plaster is flexible and malleable. It is great for difficult areas like curved walls.  

Contact Us Today

Discuss with the experts here at Sunny Coast Stucco about what is best for your project when you are deciding between stucco vs plaster. We provide top plastering for interior walls whether plaster or stucco. Stucco is popular for exterior walls because of it high resistance to outdoor elements. We use the best materials and focus on skilled installation and application.

Sunny Coast Stucco provides Residential & Commercial Stucco Installation, Stucco Repair, Stucco Renovation, Exterior & Interior Plastering, New Construction, Construction Defects Evaluation, Homeowner Associations, and more, to the residents and businesses of El Cajon, La Jolla, La Mesa, Lemon Grove, North Park, San Diego, Santee, and surrounding San Diego neighborhoods.