The Stucco Manufacturers Association was formed by key stucco industry members in 1957. Over the decades, the SMA has added dealers, contractors and done some very good things for the industry. The association has put out relevant technical information and for years, has promoted the use of the cement finish coat. A lot has changed since 1957. For example, most people today consider the entire Portland cement plaster assembly as stucco, not just the cement finish coat. Even the purist may have to agree it is probably time we all accept the term “stucco” as exterior Portland cement plaster regardless of the finish coat being used.
The SMA is going through a series of changes, such as its goals, direction and change in leadership. The executive director of the SMA has been Norma Fox, and for nearly two decades, she has done a fantastic job of holding the group together, making the board of directors focus and prioritize the goals of keeping the stucco market intact. Under her leadership, the overall market share for stucco grew compared to most claddings. This is impressive as many claddings went on the offensive attacking stucco.