For this project, we selected a traditional stucco exterior system, one of the most common and proven cladding systems used throughout California. Stucco is one of the most common exterior finishes in California because it performs well in hot, dry climates and requires relatively little maintenance.
While many homeowners view stucco primarily as a decorative finish, it actually serves as an important part of the home’s weather protection system.
Main functions of the exterior wall system:
- Protection from moisture intrusion
- Wind protection
- Preventing UV exposure
- Regulations of temperature fluctuations
Completing the Home’s Exterior Walls
Before any stucco could be applied, several layers had to be installed and inspected.
First, a weather-resistant barrier (WRB) is installed over the exterior sheathing. This protective layer helps prevent moisture from reaching the structural framing while still allowing the wall assembly to breathe properly.
Next, metal lath is installed to provide reinforcement and create a bonding surface for the stucco.
Inspectors review the weather-resistant barrier, flashing details, and lath installation before stucco can be applied. Once these components are in place and approved, the stucco system is applied in multiple layers, creating a durable and long-lasting exterior finish designed to withstand years of weather exposure.
After the stucco is cured and all required inspections are completed, the exterior receives its final paint finish, giving the home its finished appearance for the first time.
At this stage, the project undergoes one of its biggest visual transformations. The house is no longer a construction frame—it finally starts looking like a finished home.
Exterior walls completed
Garage Door Installation
For this home, we selected a modern black garage door featuring glass inserts and an automatic opener system. The goal was to create a clean, contemporary appearance while maintaining functionality and durability.
Although garage doors are often overlooked during design, they can represent a significant portion of a home’s front elevation and have a major impact on curb appeal.
When choosing your garage door, focus on:
- Security
- Daily convenience
- Energy efficiency
- Exterior aesthetics
Many homeowners use their garage door more frequently than their front door, making it one of the most frequently operated systems in the home. This is why it’s worth to look into a wide variety of modern garage doors additional features and choose what fits your lifestyle.
Many modern garage door systems include rolling-code technology, remote access control, smartphone monitoring, automatic locking options, and alerts when the garage door is opened or left open.
Useful Tip: if you plan to use your garage as a gym, workshop, storage area, or EV charging space, upgrading to an insulated garage door is a very good idea. In summer heat, an insulated garage door can keep garage temperatures significantly lower than a standard door
Our garage from the outside and the inside
Modern garage door systems include important code safety requirements, including automatic reversal mechanisms and photo-eye sensors that detect obstructions in the door’s path and help prevent the door from closing on people, pets, vehicles, or objects.
Another requirement in California is a battery backup function – residential automatic garage door openers sold or installed after July 1, 2019 must be able to operate during an electrical outage. This became especially important because garage doors may be needed for emergency exit during wildfire-related power outages.
Important milestone achieved! Now our house’s exterior is completed!
The roofing is installed, the exterior walls are finished, garage door, other exterior doors and windows installed. Our house is now fully protected from elements and looks according to designs and plans. Now we move inside and proceed to next step: interior walls and flooring completion.
