New Home Construction and More in Albuquerque, NM

Do You Have a Question for Lujan & Sons Construction? 

Many tasks related to home improvement don't come easily. Fortunately, Lujan & Sons Construction is here to be a go-to resource whenever you need help with a project. We're proud to work with so many Albuquerque, NM residents to make their homes beautiful and comfortable. During this process, we know you're bound to have a long list of questions for our experts. Our team to address your concerns quickly and concisely, so we've compiled a list of common questions for your perusal. If you don't see your question answered here, we encourage you to give us a call. 

How Long Does Stucco Last? 

With proper installation and maintenance, stucco is a long-term investment. It's difficult to give an accurate estimate of just how long a stucco wall will last in good condition, but evidence shows that this material is ready to stand the test of time. Just look at historic homes built over 100 years ago—much of their stucco is still pristine. 

Can I Paint Stucco? 

Great news—stucco is easy to paint! Because most stucco comes in gray and neutral tones, it only makes sense to want to add some color to your property. Keep in mind that stucco paint doesn't generally add any texture to a wall, and you'll need to add texture before beginning the painting process. Lujan & Sons Construction is here to help every step of the way! 

What Paint Should I Use? 

You shouldn't use just any old paint to spruce up your stucco walls and siding. Stucco paint is designed specifically for the material with high pH surfaces. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions with regards to the thickness of the coat, number of coats, and timing between coats. Opting for a different type of paint may mean stucco repairs down the road. 

Are Plaster, Stucco, and EIFS the Same? 

Plaster, stucco, and exterior insulation finishing systems (EIFS) are not exactly synonymous. While they're certainly related, they shouldn't be used interchangeably. Here's a quick rundown of the differences among these three building materials: 

  • Plaster: This is a general term for the thin layer of material added to a wall. 
  • Stucco: Stucco is a more common term for the material Portland cement plaster. It can be applied to masonry walls or concrete construction and is highly effective at resisting water damage. 
  • EIFS: EIFS are applied similarly to stucco, but they tend to have trouble with frequent leaks. If you choose EIFS for your exterior walls, make sure you have a solid masonry base. 

Does Stucco Require Curing? 

Stucco always requires curing. Moist curing is a great way to achieve optimal results. Simply wet the stucco throughout the day and keep an eye on the weather. Hot, dry days will require more moisture! It's also best practice to cure stucco in a medium temperature range. You don't want to attempt curing in temperatures reaching above 90 degrees. Because New Mexico gets so hot, we highly recommend choosing a cooler day to work on your home improvement project. 

How Thick Should Stucco Be? 

Once you've chosen from a variety of stucco colors, it's time to think about the thickness of the coat. Stucco thickness varies depending on several factors, including backup system and lath. Your best bet is to work with masonry paint professionals and request their expert opinion. 

What Are Common Stucco Finish Textures? 

Stucco is incredibly versatile, and with the help of a professional, you'll have your pick from upwards of 30 different textures. Choose from light, medium, and heavy finishes and a wide range of grain sizes. Some finishes are called by different names in certain areas of the United States, so make sure you get your information from a local source. The team at Lujan & Sons Construction would be happy to help you choose and apply a texture. 

How Long Does New Home Construction Take? 

Every home construction job requires a unique timeline. Your new construction might take weeks or months, depending on the extent of your project. Our team is committed to transparency, and we'll be upfront about the anticipated finish date and any changes to the schedule. 

Why Should I Get Professional Help with Construction? 

New Home Construction and More in Albuquerque, NM