Frequently Asked Questions

Medallion Branded Stucco FAQs:

Q. Will woodpeckers or flickers peck stucco?
A. There are two kinds of stucco:

Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems commonly referred to as (EIFS)

  • EIFS 1" thick Styrofoam covered with mesh and color.
  • Hard Coat Stucco is a cement coating embedded in chicken wire or diamond lathe with a coating of color on the surface.


Birds will peck holes in the Styrofoam of the EIFS system because they think they hear a grub when they peck. This is not the case with Hard Coat Stucco. Would you like a mouth full of cement? Medallion Branded Stucco Protection Systems are strictly hard coat.

Q. Is stucco maintenance free?
A. There is no maintenance required like there is with wood, vinyl or aluminum siding. Hard Coat Stucco has an acrylic color coat over a cement base coat. A textured look is achieved by mixing particulates with an acrylic color. This integrated color holds true for years in UV light conditions. Anyone can clean off dust or mud with a garden hose.

Q. Can I change the color of my stucco?
A. Yes, it is possible to paint over a color you would like to change. Ask a professional regarding the use of a primer.

Q. Why should I use diamond lathe rather than chicken wire?
A. Chicken wire is a great netting to use for stucco and used for years. Builders today now prefer diamond lathe. Diamond lathe has smaller holes giving the basecoat a stronger foundation for crack prevention.

Q. What about base coat thickness?
A. The thicker a basecoat the more completely the chicken wire or diamond lath is covered.

Q. What is the difference between a color coat and a finish coat?
A. They are the same. This is the last coat with an acrylic base and color added.

Q. Can I choose a texture?
A. The size of the particulate in the color of a flat finish determines whether the stucco wall is smooth or rough. In addition, our installers can create a variety of trowelled custom textures available from samples prior to application.

Q. Do I need expansion joints?
A. Expansion joints can be optional depending on the project. It is best to refer to your architect or installer.

Q. Can stucco be installed year round?
A. Stucco application requires a temperature of 40° or above. In wintertime, if necessary, we tent with plastic and install propane heaters inside to keep the temperature at an appropriate level for proper curing.

Q. Do I need extra insurance?
A. We carry Workmen's Compensation and liability insurance with state required minimums at no cost to you. We can also list you as an additional insured for a minimal fee.

If you have other questions, feel free to use our CHAT feature at the top.