Stucco is a durable, weather-resistant plaster commonly used for coating walls, ceilings, and other architectural features both inside and outside of buildings. It is a versatile construction material made from aggregates, a binder, and water, which when mixed together, forms a dense, solid substance. Traditionally, stucco was composed of lime, sand, and water, but modern stucco often includes Portland cement for enhanced strength and durability. The mixture is applied wet and hardens to a very dense solid, providing an aesthetically pleasing texture that can be fashioned into a variety of styles and finishes, from smooth to coarse, swirled to patterned. Stucco is valued for its attractive appearance, fire resistance, and the ability to act as a protective layer for the structure, offering a cost-effective way to cover less visually appealing construction materials like concrete, cinder block, or clay brick.