Is stucco more expensive than Hardie board?
Sophia Koch
Updated on March 08, 2026
Cost of Hardie Board vs Stucco
While stucco materials and labor averages $5.00 to $9.00 a square foot to install, Hardie board siding comes in at an average of $10.00 a square foot for materials and installation. Costs vary between locations around the country and the climate but do not change greatly.Is cement board cheaper than stucco?
Fiber cement often costs less to install than stucco. But its most impressive value is found in the much lower maintenance needs and longer-lasting nature of fiber cement. In these areas, Hardie siding gives you a greater return on investment.Is it cheaper to use stucco or siding?
If you're deciding between two materials, then you need to think about your budget. In this case, stucco is the more expensive option. The vinyl siding cost for installation ranges between $1.50 to $8.50 per square foot. On the other hand, the cost to install stucco is between $5 to $9.58 per square foot.Is cement board the same as stucco?
In addition to being cheaper and just as durable as stucco, fiber cement siding is much heartier in one respect; moisture. Stucco is good under normal, drier conditions, but humid environments, or more rainfall than normal can affect the structure of stucco, eventually causing it to crack.Are stucco homes cheaper to build?
Neither stucco nor brick is an easy DIY installation job. It is much better to entrust these jobs to professionals. However, the labor costs for stucco installation are substantially less than for brick siding. So, stucco is typically less expensive.Buying a stucco home? Heads up.
What is the main problem with stucco?
There are several stucco problems that you can encounter. The most common ones are staining and discoloration, stucco cracking, and moisture intrusion. Other problems include stucco extending below grade and caulking. Some of these issues will need either repair or remediation.Can I put stucco over Hardie board?
One finish you can use on cement boards is stucco. Extensive preparation is necessary, but once completed, you'll have a beautiful surface, suitable for further finishing by painting or left as-is for a raw plaster look.Which is better stucco or cement?
Fiber cement siding is the clear winner in terms of moisture proofing and water resistance. It's made to shed water, unlike dampness-prone stucco. Cost. Stucco lovers, be prepared to pay what it takes, because stucco is a labor-intensive process that can include unexpected costs along the way.Can fiber cement look like stucco?
The appearance of fiber cement siding that looks like stucco is really spot on — enough to fool most people at first glance and even upon closer inspection. The real advantage to choosing fiber cement stucco-look siding is that the panels are so sturdy from the incredible strength enhancement of fiber cement.What are the disadvantages of stucco siding?
Con: Stucco Requires Some MaintenanceFor instance, cracks may appear over time due to improper installation, and although they seem like cosmetic issues, cracks—especially large ones—can do more harm than you think. They can go deep beyond the surface and contribute to lasting structural damage.
What's more expensive siding or stucco?
Stucco costs about $6-$9/square foot which is the most expensive home cladding option available. While vinyl siding prices range greatly, even the most expensive option doesn't cost nearly that much money. So, stucco is way more expensive.Is stucco exterior expensive?
When it comes to cost, stucco siding is among the most expensive siding options. Stucco costs between $6 and $9 per square foot. Still, because of it's longevity, durability, and energy efficiency, many find that stucco pays for itself over time.What is stucco alternative?
4 Stylish Alternatives When Replacing Stucco with Siding
- Fiber Cement Siding. Fiber cement siding offers a similar look as stucco. ...
- Composite Siding. Composite siding is engineered to be weather-resistant and mimics the style of rustic siding. ...
- Vinyl Siding. ...
- Stone Veneer.