Should you paint your stucco?

Stucco is a durable and great-looking exterior finish, but it isn't invincible. Ideally, stucco should be painted every five to ten years. It's important to paint and perform other stucco maintenance on the right schedule to keep your home looking great and to prevent hairline cracks from growing larger.

Is it a good idea to paint a stucco house?

While you would resort to paint to protect many kinds of materials, stucco is one material that is not well matched with paint. For starters, because it readily absorbs moisture, the stucco sucks up all the paint and you need to apply many coats to cover the surface. The problem is most severe in humid climates.

Why you should never paint stucco?

Stucco needs to breath – One of the main reasons you shouldn't coat your stucco with paint is because stucco is porous. This allows moisture that hits the surface to easily evaporate away. A coat of paint can harm that breathability.

Does stucco need to be repainted?

While stucco is a very durable surface, it will need to be repainted periodically – but not often. Proper application using high-quality paint can help your stucco last over 20 years without peeling or blistering, but its longevity also depends on environmental factors.

How often should a stucco house be painted?

Stucco is a popular exterior choice due to its durability. However, a stucco home will still need exterior maintenance. It is often recommended that stucco be painted every 5-10 years depending on its current condition.

4 Secret Painting Tips To Paint Stucco

How much does it cost to repaint a stucco house?

The cost to paint a stucco house will average $4,500 for a 2,000-square-foot home with a new stucco exterior. Smaller houses may only cost $3,600 to paint. Larger houses could cost $7,200 or more. Depending on typical costs for your area and type of project, you might pay between $1.80 and $3.60 per square foot.

Is it better to roll or spray paint stucco?

Stucco can be painted using a roller or with an airless sprayer – a brush is not recommended. A roller works well for small jobs, but can be overwhelming on larger projects. When it comes to big jobs consider using an airless sprayer. It makes putting paint on a breeze – especially on larger jobs.

How long does stucco last on a house?

Stucco is a very durable finish material with a typical life span of 50-80 years or more. Although it is one of the most durable surfaces available, it also features the lowest annual maintenance cost when compared to other siding materials. Stucco is a natural material consisting of an aggregate, a binder, and water.

How do you maintain stucco?

Regular Cleaning

The good news is that cleaning indoor stucco usually takes nothing more than water and a bit of elbow grease. Simply scrub the dingy stucco with a dampened nylon brush to saturate the surface, then rub away the buildup with a moistened microfiber cloth (or clean cotton rag).

Can you use a pressure washer on stucco?

Yes, you can use a power washer or pressure washer to clean stucco. Just make sure to maintain a good distance between the nozzle and the surface, use the 1,500 PSI, and a 25- or 40-degree nozzle. Although, given the intensity of a power washer, seeking the help of a professional is always best.

How often should stucco be sealed?

If new, stucco can be sealed with a clear concrete/ masonry sealer, which will penetrate into the stucco and stop moisture entrance. These are typically silicone type sealers. While effective, these finishes will usually need to be redone every 4-5 years.

Is unpainted stucco waterproof?

Three-coat stucco is the most common exterior cladding here in Southern California; properly installed, it's tough, durable, and attractive. But it's not waterproof. No matter how skilled the plasterer is, rain will get behind stucco.

Is it a risk to buy stucco house?

Water entry behind the stucco can cause deterioration (rot) of the underlying wood, allowing water to wet the insulation, framing members, and drywall in our homes. This type of damage goes undetected until an inspection is performed, and consequently is all having a negative impact on the resale value of these homes.

Should stucco be painted flat or satin?

The best exterior paint for stucco is a 100% acrylic paint. It's durable and flexible. It is even better if the paint finish is satin or semi-gloss because they are more water-resistant.

Can stucco color be changed?

The easiest and most efficient way to change the color of a stucco house is to paint it. Stucco may be painted any color that you desire. Painting stucco is similar to painting other surfaces, although it does require a little more time and patience since the texture of the stucco is porous.

How do you update a stucco house?

Are cracks in stucco normal?

So the answer to 'are cracks in stucco normal? ' is yes! Small stucco cracks are a natural occurrences, so if you see one, there's typically no need to panic. Over time stucco will probably show some minor damage like this, but with the right repair technicians by your side the problem is easily fixed.

Does stucco fade over time?

Does stucco color fade? Yes. Like all interior and exterior paint, stucco paint fades over time.

Does painting stucco cause mold?

Prolonged Moisture

Prolonged moisture can cause mold to stain the stucco surface. New paint will not be able to bond to the surface resulting in flaking or peeling. Over time, stucco will fade and become discolored from atmospheric soil and mildew.

Are stucco homes hard to maintain?

People commonly believe that stucco is low-maintenance; however, you do have to commit to it. For instance, cracks may appear over time due to improper installation, and although they seem like cosmetic issues, cracks—especially large ones—can do more harm than you think.

What type of paint is best for stucco?

Acrylic Paint. The best exterior paint for stucco is 100% acrylic paint in most cases. Indeed, acrylic latex paint is both durable and flexible, maximizing stucco surface breathability.

Do I need to prime stucco before painting?

Priming Stucco Before Painting: Yes or No? While not technically necessary, it is strongly recommended that you prime your stucco before you begin to paint.

What is the best time to paint house exterior?

So, what is the ideal weather for exterior painting? Early summer and early fall usually offer up the best weather conditions, with minimal rain and minimal fluctuations in temperature from day to night. This will ensure the paint goes on smoothly and has the chance to dry and cure properly.

Do I need to prime old stucco before painting?

Yes, you can paint over already painted stucco and it is usually easier than painting over a non painted stucco finish. You do not need primer, in most cases either and the paint will usually last for quite a while before needing another coat.