Written by Stucco Champions — Southern California’s Authority on Exterior Plastering.
Introduction to One Coat Plastering Products: Brands & Specifications
In the modern construction landscape, "One Coat" stucco (often called fiber-reinforced stucco) has replaced traditional three-coat systems for many residential projects. This is not because it is "cheap," but because it is engineered for speed and efficiency without sacrificing strength.
These proprietary mixes contain chopped fiberglass strands and acrylic polymers that allow for a single, thick application (3/8" to 1/2") that resists cracking. However, choosing the right manufacturer is critical. This guide breaks down the major players in the market and the specific products we trust.
1. Omega Products International (The West Coast Standard)
Based in California, Omega Products is a dominant force in the Western US. Their "Diamond Wall" system is a staple on our job sites due to its consistency.
Product Lineup:
- Diamond Wall Concentrate: This is the pro choice. It comes in an 80lb bag of cement and fiber. We add 200lbs of local sand on-site. It offers massive coverage and cost savings for large walls.
- Diamond Wall Sanded: The "Just Add Water" version. The sand is factory-blended. Best for smaller patches where we don't want a sand pile in the driveway.
- Diamond Wall Pro: An upgraded formula with higher polymer content for increased flexural strength (crack resistance).
2. Western Stucco (The Heavy Duty Choice)
Founded in 1932, Western Blended Products is known for making incredibly hard, durable cement.
Product Lineup:
- Western 1-Kote: Their flagship fiber-reinforced concentrate. It is known in the trade for being slightly "grittier" and setting up harder than competitors. It is excellent for structural repairs where impact resistance is key.
- Premium Concentrate: A higher-yield version designed for commercial pump application.
3. El Rey Stucco (The Desert Specialist)
Now part of the Parex USA family, El Rey is huge in the Southwest (Arizona/New Mexico/SoCal). Their products are formulated to withstand extreme heat and rapid drying conditions.
Product Lineup:
- FastWall Stucco Base: Designed for rapid curing. It allows for same-day finishing in some climates, though we always recommend a 48-hour cure for safety.
4. Sto Corp (The Commercial Giant)
Sto Powerwall is a premium system often seen on commercial high-rises. While excellent, their products are often part of a strict "system warranty" that requires using their specific mesh, base coat, and finish. It is less common for single-family residential patch jobs but superior for large-scale engineered facades.
Concentrate: Cheap per square foot ($15 bag + $5 sand = 90 sq ft). Requires a mixer and sand pile.
Sanded (Premix): Expensive per square foot ($15 bag = 20 sq ft). No sand pile required.
For a whole house, use Concentrate. For a window patch, use Sanded.
Conclusion: It’s All About the System
Whether you choose Omega, Western, or El Rey, the secret isn't the bag; it's the mixing ratio. These products rely on the correct amount of sand and water to activate the polymers. Too much sand makes it weak; too much water makes it crack. Always follow the ICC-ES report on the back of the bag.
Last week, we shared How To Mix Stucco Base Coat. Learn the exact recipes for these products.