What is a 3-Coat Stucco System?

​3-coat stucco system

If you are looking for a classic, incredibly durable exterior for a building, the 3-coat stucco system is the traditional gold standard. Just like the name implies, it is a method of applying stucco in three distinct layers over a supportive frame.
Before the stucco is even applied, the wall is prepped with a weather-resistant barrier (like building paper) and a metal wire mesh called "lath." This mesh acts as the skeleton that holds the stucco in place.
Once the wall is prepped, the three coats are applied:

• 1. The Scratch Coat: This is the base layer. The wet stucco mixture is troweled directly into the metal lath. While it is still wet, the surface is literally "scratched" with a special tool to create deep horizontal grooves. These grooves give the next layer something to grab onto.
  
• 2. The Brown Coat: This is the middle layer. It is applied right over the grooves of the scratch coat. The main job of the brown coat is to build up the thickness of the wall, add structural strength, and create a perfectly flat, even surface.
  
• 3. The Finish Coat: This is the top layer and the only part you actually see. It can be applied in various colors and textures—from a smooth finish to a heavily textured, rustic look. It seals the wall and gives your home its final curb appeal.
  

Why Choose a 3-Coat System?Because it is applied so thickly (usually around 7/8 of an inch total), a 3-coat system is famous for being incredibly tough, impact-resistant, and long-lasting. It is a tried-and-true method that has been protecting homes for centuries!