Stucco vs. Parging: What’s the Difference?

Homeowners often use ‘stucco’ and ‘parging’ interchangeably, and it’s easy to see why — both are cement-based coatings on the outside of a home. But they do different jobs, and knowing which is which helps you describe the problem and get the right repair.

What is stucco?

Stucco is a durable exterior wall finish made from cement, sand and water (or a modern acrylic blend). It covers the above-ground walls of your home, giving it that textured, finished look while protecting the structure from weather.

What is parging?

Parging is a thinner cement coating applied to the exposed foundation — the strip of concrete between the ground and where the stucco or siding begins. Its job is mostly protective: it smooths and seals the foundation and helps keep moisture out. Because it sits low and takes a beating from soil, snow and sprinklers, parging tends to crack and flake over time.

How to tell which one needs repair

A simple rule: if the damage is up on the walls of your house, it’s stucco. If it’s down low on the concrete foundation near the ground, it’s parging. Both protect your home from Calgary’s freeze-thaw cycles, and both are worth repairing early.

We do both

IRN Stucco repairs stucco and parging across Calgary and surrounding areas. Not sure which you’re looking at? Send us a photo or book a free, no-obligation quote and we’ll tell you exactly what’s going on.