Adding a stucco finish to your rental property has negative and positive aspects. Like all exterior siding options, there are good reasons to invest in stucco for a rental home, but certain downsides may make stucco a less enticing option. To figure out whether stucco siding is right for your single-family rentals, you must first understand what it is and how much a stucco finish will cost. With this knowledge, you will be able to make the best decision for your rental properties.
Stucco siding is widespread throughout the American Southwest, and is suitable for use in various climates and regions. The reason for this is that stucco is a cement-based plaster applied over a galvanized wire mesh called a lathe, which helps the plaster adhere to the wall surface and gives resilience. In most cases, stucco is applied in a minimum of three coats, with the top or finish coat including any color or special finishing techniques.
Pros of Stucco Siding for Your Rental
The longevity and strength of stucco are not merely advantages; they are proof of a long-lasting investment.
- Stucco is tinted, not painted, so it can withstand fading for decades.
- Stucco can be textured for a unique and decorative look.
- With proper maintenance, stucco can last a very long time, so you will not have to make any plans for its replacement shortly.
- Stucco is a good material for providing protection against inclement weather.
- The cost of stucco itself is relatively low when weighed against other types of siding, making it an economical option.
Potential Drawbacks
Without a doubt, there are some drawbacks to consider, in addition to the advantages that stucco provides.
- Stucco requires professional installation, which can significantly increase the cost.
- Applying stucco can be a time-intensive project, with most professional stucco companies needing several days to finish the job.
- Stucco can be damaged easily, necessitating professional repairs.
One further thing to think about is whether you can afford to depreciate the cost of your stucco finish over several years. The IRS says that a significant improvement like adding stucco to your rental property’s exterior cannot be deducted as an expense but rather depreciated over time. This indicates that you can deduct the total cost of the stucco siding, but not simultaneously. This makes thoroughly assessing your cash flows and tax situation an essential part of your choice-making procedure.
If you come to conclusion that stucco is still the best option for your properties, the next step is to choose a reputable business that is capable of performing the task in an accurate manner and at a reasonable cost.
If you do not spend a significant amount of time conducting research, it may be difficult to find a reputable service provider. Real Property Management Northern Utah can assist you. Our Morgan County property managers can offer proposals and advice about exterior siding options and recommend quality stucco professionals who are enthusiastic about delivering the highest customer service. For additional information, contact us online or call 801-546-1770.
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