What are these beams called and how can I remove them?

[Carrie Giordano]

Hello! I'm interested in a house that has wood accent beams in the exterior. Does anyone know if there is a name for these? I feel like it makes the house look very dated and I would like to remove them. How can this be done and is it a large expense? The beams do appear to be in the stucco. Thanks!

[Craig Bowen]

Hey Carrie,

Think twice about this.  I'd bet a house that the thickness of the stucco on both side of each piece of trim is not identical and most likely will have a raised edge of the color coat that will need to be knocked off once the trim is removed. It will be virtually impossible to match the surfaces.  You can certainly paint (make sure to use an elastomeric paint anytime you paint stucco) but if the surfaces are uneven, at some point in the day, the light will be just right and highlight a very uneven wall.  The only RIGHT way to do this is to remove it all and re-stucco.  

I would think that updating the colors and enhancing the landscaping would be money better spent!

Best of luck!  It looks like a great project!