How much does it cost to install stucco over existing brick in Ottawa?

Installing stucco over existing brick in Ottawa is a more involved process than applying stucco to new sheathing, and it typically costs between $12 and $20 per square foot installed. For a typical Ottawa home with 1,800–2,400 square feet of brick wall area, that puts the total project in the $22,000 to $48,000 range. This is roughly 10–15% less than equivalent quotes in the GTA, though the scope of work is identical.

Why stucco over brick costs more than standard application

You can't just trowel stucco directly onto brick and expect it to hold. The process requires several additional steps that add to the cost:

• Surface preparation: The brick needs to be cleaned, and any loose mortar, efflorescence, or paint must be removed. Power washing plus chemical treatment runs $1.50–$3.00/sq ft.- Moisture barrier installation: A weather-resistant barrier goes over the brick to prevent moisture migration. Ontario Building Code requires this layer in the building envelope. Cost: $1.00–$2.00/sq ft.- Metal lath attachment: Self-furred metal lath gets mechanically fastened through the brick with masonry anchors (not just mortar joints). This creates the bonding surface for the stucco. Cost: $2.50–$4.00/sq ft.- Three-coat stucco application: Scratch coat, brown coat, and finish coat — the standard system. Cost: $7.00–$11.00/sq ft including materials and labour.

There are some Ottawa-specific considerations that affect pricing:

Insulation opportunity: Since you're already adding layers over the brick, many homeowners add rigid foam insulation between the moisture barrier and the lath. This adds $2.00–$4.00/sq ft but can significantly improve your home's energy performance — a worthwhile investment given Ottawa heating costs. If you go this route, you're essentially getting an EIFS-style system.

Window and door details: Every opening needs extended sills, proper flashing, and revised trim to accommodate the added wall thickness (typically 1.5–2.5 inches). Budget $300–$600 per window and $400–$800 per door for these modifications.

Foundation transition: Where the stucco meets the foundation, you need a proper weep screed and termination detail. This is a critical waterproofing point that some contractors cut corners on — don't let them.

One important note: stucco over brick is essentially irreversible. Once the lath anchors are drilled into your brick, removing the stucco later would leave the brick face damaged. Make sure you're committed to the look before proceeding. Get a minimum of three detailed quotes that specify every layer and material being used, and confirm all contractors carry WSIB coverage.

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