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How to Tell If My Siding Is Synthetic Stucco

Written By

Daisy Cuinn

Published: May 24, 2011

Updated: Nov 20, 2021

1 minute read

Look closely at the surface of the stucco. If there are cracks, it's likely that you have cement stucco, not synthetic. If there is any wire mesh visible under the cracks, it is most likely cement.
Spray a little water on the surface of the stucco. Synthetic stucco is waterproof, and will not absorb the liquid. Cement stucco will absorb it, then dry.
Tap on the surface of the stucco gently. If it has a hollow sound, it is likely synthetic stucco. If the sound is solid, it's cement.

References

HomeScape Exteriors: Everything You Need to Know About Stucco

Tips

If you still can't tell whether your stucco is real or synthetic, have a home inspector check it.

If your home was built before 1980 and the exterior hasn't had a major renovation, your stucco is real; however, many newer homes also have real stucco, so a newer home doesn't automatically indicate synthetic stucco.

Warnings

Synthetic stucco with broken seals on joints around windows and punctures in the surface can lead to serious damage to your home. If you see any problems, have them fixed by a professional as soon as possible.

Photo Credits

Photos.com/Photos.com/Getty Images

Daisy Cuinn

Delaware-based Daisy Cuinn has been writing professionally since 1997, when she became the features editor for her local biweekly music newspaper. She has been a staff writer and contributor to online and offline magazines, including "What…

How to Tell If My Siding Is Synthetic Stucco

References

Tips

Warnings

Photo Credits

Daisy Cuinn

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