The Ultimate Stucco & Stone Veneer FAQ: Everything You Need to Know

Welcome to the most comprehensive guide for exterior finishing in the GTA. Whether you are in Brampton, Mississauga, or Toronto, these answers will help you make the best decision for your home.

General Stucco & EIFS Questions

Q: What is the difference between traditional stucco and EIFS? A: Traditional stucco is a cement-based plaster applied over a metal lath. It is incredibly hard and durable. EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems), often called "Synthetic Stucco," includes an added layer of foam insulation. EIFS is more energy-efficient and flexible, making it less likely to crack during the GTA's extreme temperature swings between summer and winter.

Q: Can you install stucco over brick? A: Yes! Stucco over brick is a popular way to modernize older homes in Toronto and Mississauga. We prepare the brick surface with a bonding agent and a wire lath to ensure the stucco adheres perfectly, giving your home a fresh, luxury look.

Q: How long does a stucco exterior last in Ontario? A: When professionally installed by AVR Stucco, a high-quality EIFS or hard-coat system can last 50+ years. The key is proper maintenance, such as ensuring your window caulking is intact and repairing small hairline cracks before they allow water to seep in.

Stucco Repair & Maintenance

Q: Why is my stucco cracking? A: Small hairline cracks are common due to your home "settling" or the freeze-thaw cycles in Ontario. However, larger cracks or bulging usually indicate water penetration. If you notice cracks, contact us for a stucco repair estimate in Brampton or the GTA immediately to prevent wood rot behind the walls.

Q: Can I paint my stucco? A: Yes, you can paint stucco, but we recommend using a specialized elastomeric paint. Unlike regular house paint, elastomeric coatings are "stretchy" and waterproof, allowing the stucco to breathe while sealing small cracks.

Q: What is parging, and do I need it? A: Parging is the protective coating applied to the visible part of your home’s foundation. In the GTA, parging is essential to protect your foundation from moisture and salt damage. If your foundation looks crumbly or grey, you likely need a parging repair.

Costs & Process

Q: How much does stucco cost per square foot in the GTA? A: On average, stucco installation in the GTA ranges from $8 to $15 per square foot, depending on the system (EIFS vs. Traditional), the complexity of the mouldings, and the size of the project. We provide free on-site estimates to give you an exact price.

Q: How long does a typical stucco project take? A: A standard residential project usually takes 7 to 14 days, depending on the weather. Stucco requires specific temperatures to dry correctly, so we typically schedule major installations between April and November.

Q: Are you insured to work in Mississauga and Toronto? A: Absolutely. AVR Stucco is fully insured with General Liability and WSIB coverage. We never step onto a job site without full protection for our workers and your property.

Service Areas

Q: Which cities do you serve? A: We are based in Brampton and provide professional stucco services across the entire Greater Toronto Area, including Mississauga, Vaughan, Oakville, Milton, Etobicoke, Scarborough, and Richmond Hill.

1. Stucco & EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems)

Q: What is the difference between Traditional Stucco and EIFS? A: Traditional stucco is a cement-based mix that is rock-hard and durable. EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems) is a multi-layered "synthetic" stucco that includes a foam insulation board. EIFS is superior for energy savings and is less likely to crack during Ontario's freeze-thaw cycles. Learn more on our Services Page.

Q: Can I stucco over my old brick home? A: Absolutely. Stucco-over-brick is one of the most popular ways to modernize homes in the GTA. It adds insulation and a fresh, luxury look. We use a specialized bonding agent to ensure the stucco adheres permanently to the brick.

Q: How do I know if my stucco is EIFS or Traditional? A: Give the wall a light "knock." If it sounds hollow, it is likely EIFS. If it feels solid like a rock, it is traditional hard-coat stucco.

Q: Is stucco fire-resistant? A: Yes. A standard 7/8-inch coating of stucco provides a one-hour fire rating, making it one of the safest exterior materials you can choose.

2. Veneer Stone & Stone Accents

Q: What is the difference between Natural Stone and Manufactured Stone Veneer? A: Natural stone is quarried from the earth and sliced thin. Manufactured (faux) stone is made from high-strength concrete poured into molds. Both look beautiful, but manufactured stone is lighter and often more cost-effective for residential facades. Check out our latest Stone Veneer Projects.

Q: Can stone veneer be installed directly over stucco? A: No, stone cannot be "glued" directly onto a finished stucco surface. We must first install a wire lath and a scratch coat to create a structural bond that can support the weight of the stone.

Q: Does stone veneer require a foundation shelf? A: Because veneer stone is thin and lightweight, it usually does not require a structural foundation shelf, unlike full-sized heavy stones. This makes it perfect for renovations.

3. Repairs, Maintenance & Parging

Q: Why is my stucco cracking? A: Small hairline cracks are often caused by the home "settling." However, larger cracks can be caused by improper installation or water getting behind the system. If you see bulging or brown stains, you need Stucco Repair immediately to prevent wood rot.

Q: Can you match the color and texture of my existing stucco? A: Yes. We use advanced color-matching and texture replication techniques. While aged stucco may have slight fading, we can usually get a match that is invisible to the naked eye.

Q: What is "Parging" and why is it falling off? A: Parging is the coating on your foundation. It often falls off due to road salt, moisture, or poor original application. We provide specialized foundation parging that is designed to withstand GTA winters. Contact us for a parging quote.

Q: Can I power wash my stucco? A: We do not recommend high-pressure washing, as it can puncture the surface or force water into the system. Instead, use a garden hose and a soft-bristle brush with a mild detergent.

4. Cost, Timing & Service

Q: How much does stucco cost per square foot in Toronto/Brampton? A: For 2026, prices typically range from $10 to $18 per square foot depending on the complexity, insulation thickness, and custom mouldings. We offer Free Estimates to give you a firm price.

Q: What is the best time of year to install stucco in Ontario? A: Stucco and stone require temperatures above 5°C (40°F) to cure properly. In the GTA, the ideal season is from April to November.

Q: Do you offer a warranty? A: Yes, we stand behind our craftsmanship. We provide a workmanship guarantee on all new installations and repairs to give you total peace of mind.

Q: Which areas do you serve? A: We are proud to be the top-rated stucco company serving Brampton, Mississauga, Vaughan, Etobicoke, Oakville, Milton, and the entire GTA. See our About Us page for our full story.

5. Unique & Rare Questions (For Extra SEO)

Q: Can woodpeckers damage my stucco? A: Woodpeckers sometimes peck at EIFS because it sounds hollow. We offer "High-Impact Mesh" or bird-deterrent coatings to protect your home if you live in a wooded area.

Q: Will stucco increase my home’s resale value? A: Yes. Real estate data shows that a stucco or stone veneer facelift can provide an ROI (Return on Investment) of up to 70-80% while significantly increasing "curb appeal."