Stucco vs Siding: Pros & Cons
Stucco is preferred by many homeowners in Edmonton for its strength, energy efficiency, and clean finish. EIFS stucco, in particular, performs better than most siding options in Alberta’s harsh freeze-thaw conditions.
The EIFS system includes multiple layers that work together to reduce thermal loss and improve weather resistance. This helps provide consistent insulation, resists cracking, and helps protect homes from moisture damage over time.
In this guide, you’ll find a detailed comparison of stucco versus siding materials, including how EIFS stands up against traditional stucco, fiber cement, vinyl, and cement board systems.
Each section breaks down the pros, cons, and costs to help you make an informed decision.
At Depend Exteriors, we provide professional installation of stucco and siding for residential exteriors across Edmonton and surrounding areas. Call (780) 710-3972 to request a quote or schedule an on-site visit.
What’s Better for My Home: Stucco or Siding?
Stucco is a better choice for most homes in Edmonton because it lasts longer, adds insulation, and handles moisture more effectively. Siding can still work for homes on a budget or for non-heated structures like garages, but it doesn’t offer the same level of protection.
Stucco is applied in layers to form a sealed exterior surface. It adds strength to the wall and helps keep heat inside during Edmonton’s colder months. EIFS systems go further by adding built-in insulation and drainage. This makes them a better option for homeowners looking for energy savings and long-term durability. The finish also resists cracking, which reduces repairs over time.
Siding materials include options like vinyl and fiber cement. Vinyl siding is affordable and quick to install, but it doesn’t insulate well and can crack in cold weather. Fiber cement is sturdier and more fire-resistant, but needs repainting every few years and doesn’t manage moisture as well as stucco. These materials are often used on starter homes, rental properties, or accessory buildings.
Traditional Hard-Coat Stucco vs EIFS
EIFS stucco provides better insulation and moisture control, while traditional stucco offers superior impact resistance and a fire-rated cement finish.
Both systems can perform well if installed correctly, but they differ in structure, strength, and installation method.
| Feature | EIFS Stucco (Synthetic) | Traditional Hard-Coat Stucco |
|---|---|---|
| Insulation Performance | High – built-in rigid foam insulation (EPS) | Low – no insulation layer |
| Moisture Management | Good – drainage layer redirects water | Moderate – depends on surface prep |
| Impact Resistance | Lower – vulnerable to dents without mesh upgrades | High – solid cement finish |
| Crack Resistance | High – flexible base coat resists cracking | Moderate – rigid surface may crack |
| Installation Time | Faster | Slower (requires cure time) |
| Labor Skill | Standard trade experience required | Requires more plastering expertise |
| Sound Dampening | Strong (1.5–2" EPS boards reduce noise) | Moderate |
| Resale Considerations | Some buyers may view synthetic systems cautiously | Widely accepted and familiar |
| Cost | Lower labor cost, mid-range material | Higher labor and material cost |
| Ideal For | Wood-frame homes, energy efficiency upgrades | Masonry or block structures |
EIFS Stucco: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Continuous insulation improves energy efficiency
- Reduces thermal bridging and air leaks
- Flexible base coat minimizes surface cracking
- Drainage layer helps manage moisture
- Shorter installation time
- Effective sound barrier when thicker EPS is used
- Lower labor costs than cement counterparts
Cons:
- Foam base is more vulnerable to dents if not reinforced
- Requires proper detailing around windows, doors, and transitions
- Some buyers may prefer traditional cement-based exteriors
- Not ideal for areas exposed to frequent impact without added protection
Traditional Hard-Coat Stucco: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very durable against impact
- Fire-resistant due to the cement composition
- Familiar exterior material for resale in most markets
- Works well on block or masonry construction
Cons:
- No built-in insulation; requires a separate thermal barrier
- Prone to cracking if expansion joints or flashing are not installed correctly
- Takes longer to apply and cure
- Higher labor cost due to skill and time required
EIFS vs Hard-Coat Stucco Cost
EIFS is usually more affordable than traditional hard-coat stucco due to lower labor time and easier application on wood-frame homes.
Traditional stucco takes longer to apply, requires more skilled labor, and is heavier to work with, which increases overall project cost.
| System | Material Cost (per sq. ft.) | Installed Cost (per sq. ft.) |
|---|---|---|
| EIFS Stucco | CAD 4.50 – CAD 6.50 | CAD 9.00 – CAD 12.00 |
| Hard-Coat Cement Stucco | CAD 6.00 – CAD 8.00 | CAD 13.00 – CAD 16.00 |
Fiber Cement Siding vs Stucco
EIFS outperforms fiber cement siding in energy performance, moisture control, and maintenance.
Fiber cement siding is durable and fire-resistant, but it doesn’t perform as well in wet conditions and offers little to no thermal value. EIFS provides a sealed, insulated finish that holds up better in Edmonton’s climate and requires less upkeep over time.
| Feature | EIFS Stucco (Synthetic) | Traditional Hard-Coat Stucco | James Hardie Fiber Cement Siding |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thermal Performance | High – foam core reduces heat loss | Low – no added thermal layer | Low – depends on sheathing and housewrap |
| Moisture Protection | Strong – includes drainage | Moderate – prep quality matters | Risk of water absorption at joints |
| Surface Strength | Moderate – mesh improves impact resistance | High-density cement layer | Moderate – can chip from heavy impact |
| Crack Resistance | Flexible finish resists movement cracks | More prone to cracking without joints | Holds shape but edges may wear over time |
| Fire Resistance | Non-combustible finish layer | Excellent – cement-based | Excellent – non-combustible board |
| Appearance Options | Smooth or textured acrylic finishes | Traditional plaster texture | Wood-look or smooth plank profiles |
| Upkeep Needs | Low – colourfast and crack-resistant surface | Moderate – patching may be needed | Moderate – repainting every 10–15 years |
| Weight and Handling | Lightweight | Heavy | Heavy |
| Installation Speed | Fast | Slower due to multiple coats | Moderate |
| Best Use Case | Homes prioritizing energy savings and moisture control | Masonry homes or walls exposed to wear | Standard residential builds, resale-focused |
James Hardie Fiber Cement Siding: Pros and Cons
James Hardie fiber cement siding is a composite material made from cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. It’s manufactured in planks or panels and is often used as a durable alternative to wood or vinyl siding.
Pros:
- Fire-resistant and non-combustible
- Resistant to pests, rot, and warping
- Pre-finished options reduce initial painting requirements
- Familiar product with strong resale appeal in suburban markets
- Available in various profiles, including wood-look textures
Cons:
- No built-in thermal performance; relies on wall assembly for energy efficiency
- Can absorb moisture at joints and edges if not sealed properly
- Requires repainting every 10 -15 years
- Heavier to handle and install than vinyl or EIFS
- Repairs often require full plank replacement rather than patching
EEIFS vs Traditional Stucco vs Fiber Cement Siding Cost
EIFS is typically more cost-effective than fiber cement siding when considering long-term performance, energy savings, and installation time.
Fiber cement siding may offer strong fire resistance and resale familiarity, but it comes with higher maintenance needs and no added thermal benefit.
| System | Material Cost (per sq. ft.) | Installed Cost (per sq. ft.) |
|---|---|---|
| EIFS Stucco | CAD 4.50 – CAD 6.50 | CAD 9.00 – CAD 12.00 |
| James Hardie Fiber Cement | CAD 5.50 – CAD 7.50 | CAD 11.00 – CAD 14.00 |
Vinyl Siding vs Stucco
EIFS stucco excels over vinyl siding in weather protection, energy efficiency, and long-term durability.
While vinyl siding remains a popular low-cost option for residential builds, it lacks the performance and resilience needed for Edmonton’s freeze-thaw cycles.
| Feature | EIFS Stucco (Synthetic) | Traditional Hard-Coat Stucco | Vinyl Siding |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thermal Performance | High – foam core improves comfort | Low – no added thermal layer | Very low – no insulation unless backed |
| Moisture Resistance | Strong – built-in drainage | Moderate – depends on prep | Poor – can trap moisture if damaged |
| Impact Resistance | Moderate – mesh-reinforced base | High-density cement finish | Low – can crack or dent easily |
| Crack Resistance | Flexible base coat resists movement | Rigid – prone to cracking | N/A – seams separate under stress |
| Fire Resistance | Non-combustible finish layer | Excellent – cement-based | Low – melts or burns under heat |
| Appearance Options | Customizable acrylic finishes | Traditional plaster texture | Limited colours and profiles |
| Upkeep Needs | Low – minimal surface repairs | Moderate – patching may be needed | Moderate – prone to fading and damage |
| Weight and Handling | Lightweight | Heavy | Very light and flexible |
| Installation Speed | Fast | Slow – multi-step process | Very fast |
| Best Use Case | Homes focused on energy performance | Masonry walls, fire resistance | Budget homes, garages, rental units |
Vinyl Siding: Pros and Cons
Vinyl siding is a lightweight, plastic-based material designed for quick installation and low upfront cost. It’s widely used on starter homes, detached garages, and multi-family buildings where basic weather coverage is acceptable and appearance is less of a concern.
Pros:
- Lowest material and labour cost of most exterior systems
- Installs quickly with minimal tools or crew
- Available in various colours and panel widths
- Doesn’t need painting
- Lightweight and easy to handle
Cons:
- Very limited thermal value
- Cracks or warps in extreme cold or direct sunlight
- Fades and becomes brittle over time
- Offers minimal protection from water or impact
- Often needs full panel replacement for repairs
EIFS vs Traditional Stucco vs Vinyl Siding Cost
Vinyl siding has the lowest upfront cost, while traditional stucco is the most expensive due to its labour-intensive nature.
EIFS falls in the middle, offering balanced pricing with better performance per dollar.
| System | Material Cost (per sq. ft.) | Installed Cost (per sq. ft.) |
|---|---|---|
| EIFS Stucco | CAD 4.50 – CAD 6.50 | CAD 9.00 – CAD 12.00 |
| Traditional Hard-Coat Stucco | CAD 6.00 – CAD 8.00 | CAD 13.00 – CAD 16.00 |
| Vinyl Siding | CAD 2.50 – CAD 4.00 | CAD 6.00 – CAD 9.00 |
EIFS vs Cement-Board Stucco for Exterior Renovations
EIFS provides better thermal performance and flexibility for exterior renovations, while cement-board stucco systems offer greater surface durability and fire resistance.
Each system serves a different purpose depending on wall type, insulation needs, and impact exposure.
| Feature | EIFS Stucco (Synthetic) | Cement-Board Stucco System |
|---|---|---|
| Thermal Performance | High – continuous EPS foam layer | Low – relies on wall cavity insulation |
| Moisture Protection | Strong – drainage layer included | Moderate – moisture barrier depends on wrap |
| Impact Resistance | Moderate – mesh-reinforced base | High – cement board resists dents and dings |
| Crack Resistance | Flexible finish resists cracking | Rigid – cracks possible at seams if not detailed properly |
| Fire Resistance | Non-combustible finish | Excellent – fire-rated backer and cement coat |
| Appearance Options | Textured or smooth acrylic finishes | Traditional stucco texture |
| Upkeep Needs | Low – minimal surface maintenance | Moderate – may require re-coating over time |
| Installation Speed | Faster – fewer steps and materials | Slower – board install, taping, lath, and finish required |
| Ideal Use Case | Energy upgrades, retrofit cladding | Durable face on high-impact areas or fire zones |
Choosing Between EIFS and Cement-Board Stucco
EIFS is best for residential renovations where energy efficiency, surface flexibility, and faster installation are priorities. It works well on wood-frame homes and can be applied over existing substrates with minimal structural changes.
Cement-board stucco is better for high-traffic areas or fire-rated assemblies. It offers more surface strength and fire resistance but requires more labour and layers to install. This system is often used in commercial settings or where durability matters more than thermal performance.
EIFS Stucco vs Cement Board Stucco Cost
| System | Material Cost (per sq. ft.) | Installed Cost (per sq. ft.) |
|---|---|---|
| EIFS Stucco | CAD 4.50 – CAD 6.50 | CAD 9.00 – CAD 12.00 |
| Cement-Board Stucco | CAD 6.50 – CAD 8.50 | CAD 13.00 – CAD 16.00 |
Is Stucco Better Than Siding?
Stucco, especially EIFS, is often a better long-term choice than siding for Edmonton homes due to its durability, thermal performance, and moisture control.
Siding can work for basic structures or short-term budgets, but it doesn’t offer the same protection or energy value.
Stucco vs Siding Pros and Cons
Here is a breakdown of the drawbacks and benefits of stucco vs siding to help you compare them side by side:
| Feature | EIFS / Traditional Stucco | Vinyl / Fiber Cement Siding |
|---|---|---|
| Thermal Performance | ✓ | ✘ |
| Moisture Resistance | ✓ | ✘ |
| Impact Resistance | ✓ (Traditional), ✘ (EIFS base unreinforced) | ✘ |
| Crack Resistance | ✓ (EIFS), ✘ (Traditional) | ✘ (vinyl may split at seams) |
| Fire Resistance | ✓ | ✓ (fiber cement), ✘ (vinyl) |
| Long-Term Durability | ✓ | ✘ |
| Maintenance Needs | ✓ | ✘ |
| Installation Time | ✘ | ✓ |
| Upfront Cost | ✘ | ✓ |
| Design Flexibility (Finishes) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Ideal for Cold Climates | ✓ | ✘ |
| Familiarity / Resale Familiarity | ✓ | ✓ |
Choose the Right House Siding for Your Edmonton Home
EIFS offers better long-term value than most siding systems, especially in Edmonton’s challenging climate. Whether you’re renovating or building new, it’s a smart choice for homeowners who want lasting protection, energy savings, and low maintenance.
Depend Exteriors provides expert EIFS and stucco installation throughout Edmonton and the surrounding areas.
Call (780) 710-3972 to request a quote or book an on-site visit. We’re here to help you upgrade your exterior with the right system for your home.
FAQs
Does wood siding cost more than vinyl or fiber cement?
Wood siding is often more expensive to buy and maintain than vinyl or fiber cement. While it adds classic appeal, the ongoing upkeep and repainting raise long-term costs.
Which materials last the longest on exterior residential walls?
Traditional hard-coat stucco and fiber cement are among the longest-lasting exterior wall materials, often lasting 30–50 years or more with proper maintenance.
What is cheaper stucco or Hardie board?
Hardie board (fibre cement siding) is more expensive to install initially than stucco due to higher material costs and specialized installation requirements. However, it often lasts longer and needs less maintenance, which can make it more cost-effective over time.
Is stucco more expensive than siding?
Stucco vs siding cost varies, but stucco is typically more expensive to install upfront than vinyl siding. However, stucco may offer better long-term value due to its durability and lower maintenance needs.
