Understanding Stucco Quoins – A Detailed Guide

Stucco quoins, known for adding flair and style to stucco buildings, are an intriguing architectural feature. With endless design possibilities, they capture the imagination of builders and homeowners alike. As a certified stucco expert with over 20 years of experience, I aim to demystify stucco quoins and provide a comprehensive guide on their variety, construction, and application.

Defining Stucco Quoins 

Stucco quoins are decorative elements positioned at the corners of buildings. They come in various shapes, sizes, and styles, ranging from uniform to abstract designs. Their primary purpose is aesthetic enhancement, contributing to the building’s overall architectural appeal.

Composition and Types 

There are two main types of stucco quoins:

• Styrofoam Quoins: These are commonly made from EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) foam, reinforced with fiberglass mesh, and coated with a 1/16″ to 1/8″ thick layer of acrylic-modified cement. They are available pre-coated or in raw foam form for custom coating.

• Metal Reinforced Quoins: Less common but more durable, these quoins use metal lath, corner aid, or plaster stop as a base, overlaid with cement base coats. Though offering limited design flexibility, they provide a robust alternative to Styrofoam quoins.

• Construction Process: The metal outlines are filled with a base coat, typically requiring a scratch coat and a brown coat, before the finish is applied.

Procurement and Customization 

Stucco quoins can be sourced through stucco suppliers who often collaborate with specialized foam product manufacturers. Companies like New Image Foam, which I have worked with, offer custom designs using precision laser cutting, like CNC routing, allowing for intricate and unique patterns. 

For metal-reinforced quoins, materials are readily available at stucco supply stores, allowing DIY enthusiasts to create their designs.

Exploring Design Variations 

Stucco quoins are available in various designs:   

• Symmetrical Design: These quoins have equal lengths on both sides, forming a straight line and offering a classic, balanced look.

• Offset Design: Consisting of quoins of two different sizes, this design creates an asymmetric, dynamic appearance.

• Custom Design: Custom-made designs, like the one illustrated below, offer elaborate and unique architectural elements.

• Note on Spacing: The spacing between quoins (vertical distance) significantly impacts the overall design. Quoins spaced 1/2″ apart, for instance, present a different aesthetic than those spaced 3 inches apart.