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Excellence in American Stucco: A Legacy of Craftsmanship and Innovation

February 10, 2025

The rich history of America's construction industry owes much to Black craftsmen and entrepreneurs who helped shape modern plastering, stucco application, and concrete work. From skilled artisans of the past to today's industry leaders, Black Americans have been instrumental in advancing these trades.

Henry Williams, a freedman in Charleston in the 1800s, became one of the city's most sought-after plasterers. He developed techniques that are still studied today. His distinctive scoring patterns and ornamental work grace several historic buildings in Charleston's French Quarter.

In the early 1900s, Robert R. Taylor, the first accredited Black architect in America, incorporated innovative stucco and concrete techniques in his designs at the Tuskegee Institute. His work influenced a generation of Black builders and craftsmen.

Modern pioneers include Samuel "Pete" Palmer, who in the 1960s established one of Chicago's first Black-owned plastering companies. Palmer Plastering trained dozens of apprentices and set new standards for exterior stucco application in cold climates.


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Today, this legacy of excellence continues through industry leaders like Kenroy Reid, founder of Reid's Stucco. With nearly two decades of construction experience, Reid exemplifies the dedication to craftsmanship that defines excellence in the trade. As a first-generation college graduate, and businessman, he has built Reid's Stucco into Central Florida's premier exterior finishing company through an unwavering commitment to quality and precision.

Reid's Stucco stands as a testament to family values and professional excellence. Working alongside his wife and sons, Kenroy has created more than a business – he's built a family legacy centered on exceptional customer service. Every project undertaken by Reid's Stucco reflects this family's dedication to superior craftsmanship and attention to detail.

The Reid family's approach combines time-honored techniques with modern innovation, ensuring each project meets the highest standards of quality. Their success demonstrates how the values of hard work, family unity, and professional excellence continue to shape the industry's future.

These contributions remind us that excellence in stucco and plastering isn't just about materials and techniques—it's about the dedicated craftspeople who shape the industry through generations of expertise and commitment to quality.

The sun is shining through the branches of a cherry blossom tree.
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As winter gives way to spring in Florida, it's the perfect time to assess your home's exterior and address any damage that may have occurred during the rainy season. For homes with stucco exteriors—a staple in Florida architecture—spring maintenance is particularly important to prepare for the upcoming heat and humidity. Here's your comprehensive guide to preparing your stucco home for the Florida spring and summer seasons.
January 14, 2025
As we kick off the new year, homeowners are looking for smart ways to improve their properties while maximizing their tax benefits. At Reid's Stucco, we're excited to share how upgrading your home's exterior can lead to significant tax savings while reducing energy costs. Understanding the Tax Benefits The Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit, extended through 2032, offers substantial incentives for homeowners who invest in energy-efficient upgrades. Here's what you need to know: Up to $1,200 annually in tax credits for qualifying energy-efficient home improvements Additional credits are available for specific improvements that enhance your home's thermal envelope Special provisions for comprehensive home energy audits Extra incentives for homes in designated disadvantaged communities How Stucco Improvements Qualify Modern stucco systems do more than beautify your home – they're a crucial component of your home's thermal envelope. A properly installed stucco system with integrated insulation can: Reduce heat transfer through your walls Minimize air leakage Improve your home's overall energy efficiency Help maintain consistent indoor temperatures Lower your heating and cooling costs When combined with proper insulation and weatherization, a new stucco system can qualify for various tax incentives while delivering immediate energy savings. Real Cost Benefits Let's break down the numbers. A typical energy-efficient stucco upgrade can: Reduce energy bills by 15-30% annually Qualify for up to $2,000 in tax credits for whole-house efficiency improvements Increase your home's resale value Provide long-term protection against weather damage Pay for itself through energy savings within 5-7 years Making Energy Efficiency More Accessible At Reid's Stucco, we believe every homeowner should have access to energy-efficient improvements. That's why we're excited to announce that we'll be offering flexible financing options soon to help make these valuable upgrades more affordable for our customers. Our upcoming financing program will feature: Competitive interest rates Flexible payment terms Simple application process Quick approval times No prepayment penalties Stay tuned for more details about our financing options. We're committed to helping you make your home more energy-efficient and comfortable while maximizing your tax benefits and long-term savings. Our 3-year guarantee is unmatched in the industry! Ready to learn more about how energy-efficient stucco improvements can benefit your home? Contact Reid's Stucco today for a free consultation and energy assessment. Let's make 2025 the year you invest in your home's future while saving on taxes and energy costs. Phone:  (321) 245-8731  Email: info@reidsstucco.com Website: reidsstucco.com
December 17, 2024
As we wrap up another remarkable year, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to all our valued customers and partners. Your trust in Reid's Stucco Inc. has been the foundation of our success, and we're truly thankful for every project, referral, and opportunity to serve you. The holiday season allows us to reflect on our relationships and the beautiful transformations we've created together. Each stucco project represents a job well done and a lasting connection with our community and the families we serve. Looking ahead to 2025, we're excited about the opportunities to continue delivering excellence in stucco services. Our commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction remains stronger than ever, and we can't wait to bring more of your vision to life in the coming year. As you consider your gift-giving this season, remember that referrals are the greatest gift you can give to a small business like ours. If you've been pleased with our work, we would be honored if you would share your experience with friends, family, or neighbors who might benefit from our services.
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The holiday season is just around the corner, which means it's time to start decking the halls and getting your home ready for festive gatherings. While you're busy stringing up lights and hanging wreaths, it's important to be mindful of how your seasonal decorations can impact your home's stucco exterior. Stucco is a durable and low-maintenance cladding material, but improper installation of holiday decor can potentially damage the finish. Here are 5 tips to keep your stucco looking its best throughout the holidays:
A white truck is parked in front of a large white house under construction.
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As the autumn leaves start to fall, many homeowners are considering giving their homes a fresh look with stucco. But before you jump into your project, it's crucial to choose the right contractor and ensure your contract is crystal clear. Here's how to do just that, and why Reid's Stucco Inc. stands out in meeting these crucial criteria.
A man is plastering a wall with a hose.
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A construction worker is standing in front of a house under construction.
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Now that we're in the midst of hurricane season, FL homeowners with stucco exteriors must be particularly vigilant. While stucco is a durable and attractive finish, it can be vulnerable to the intense winds and heavy rains that hurricanes bring. This month's blog provides tips to help protect your stucco home and minimize potential damage during these severe weather events.
A man is plastering a wall with a spatula.
June 5, 2024
Stucco is a popular exterior siding material known for its durability and aesthetic appeal. However, like any building material, stucco can become damaged or deteriorate over time. Identifying the need for stucco repairs early can help prevent more extensive and costly issues down the line.
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