Should I buy a Stucco exterior home built in 2008?

Profile picture for Beemer127

I'm looking to potentially buy a home in Kirkland.

The exterior is Stucco (not EIFS), built in 2008. I've heard many horror stories about Stucco and water damage so I am concerned. I can't 'see' any visible water damage.

Should I stay away from Stucco, period? 

Are there ways to determine if it's safe and not going to have water damage issues?

Any advice?

thanks

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February 10 - Kirkland
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Answers (4)

Profile picture for TopNJAgent
Second generation EIFS generally performs well, BUT because of the issues with the earlier version (much of which I think was related to installation issues) it still carries a stigma that will reduce your buyer pool when you go to sell.  In my experience, Relocation Companies still will not allow buying clients to consider homes with EIFS.  Hard coat stucco is a different product. Do your due diligence up front so you know what you are dealing with.

And yes, by all means, whatever you buy, hire a good inspector.
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February 13
Profile picture for Jim Reppond
Stucco is usually fine in this area if it is installed and maintained properly. The thing you want to do is have a building inspection done by an inspector who has a thermography camera. Here is a video a created a few years ago of an inspector who used this device during an inspection for one of my clients. http://youtu.be/zIAu4YnptHw
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February 11
Profile picture for Caveat Emptor
IMO, Id stay away. stucco is fine in places like CA that are warm to hot year round, but places that might get snow or that tend to be damp anyway (like here in the rainy city) I wouldn't. its also unusual up here. I don't get to Kirkland much, but when I randomly see one lone stucco house/ apartment complex, I blanch and do a double take. I live in south king county. ofc, if it is a building, you can always put up vinyl siding which would fix the moisture problem, the looks, and make the home more energy efficient.

0.02
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February 10
Profile picture for sunnyview
Traditional stucco is not really an issue in my area as long as you have appropriate drainage and eave cover. It holds up fairly well as long as the site was prepared correctly before the house was built.

If you are concerned, I would call a couple of foundation repair companies and ask about expansive soils in your area. Also, talk to local neighbors and see if they have had any issues if the house was build by a particular builder. Often, if there issues, they will tell you.

Stucco is pretty durable done right and gives houses a classic look. You can also ask a stucco company to inspect the exterior before you buy to spot any problems. 
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February 10
 

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