Homes with stucco exteriors are unique for many reasons. The aesthetic appearance and durability of the material give stucco homes a particular curb appeal not matched by many others; so maintaining a fresh and clean look is crucial. When it comes to painting stucco, keep these three tips in mind.
Have the Right Kind of Paint and Supplies
Having the correct materials is obviously essential for any exterior painting, especially when it comes to stucco. If the wrong tools or paint are used, often the paint, stucco or both can get seriously damaged. It’s important to start by know what kind of stucco you’re painting. Check to see if the stucco on your home is that of a smoother texture or if it is a rougher, more textured stucco. Once determined, choose the correct elastomeric paint; this particular type of paint can affix to the detailed texture of stucco and bridges gaps and ridges more effectively while also repelling water. Another critical factor is the method of painting you intend to use. There are two primary methods: using a sprayer or using nap rollers to apply paint. If you plan to use nap rollers, make sure you get the correct thickness. A good rule of thumb is to get 1” thickness for rougher stucco textures and ¾” for medium or lighter stucco finishes. Sprayers will result in a more professional look and are quicker.
Prep and Prime
Before painting stucco, it’s important to have the correct preparations for proper paint application. Inspect your home’s stucco for any cracks, chipped paint or any general wear and tear. Use a filler, like caulk, to close or repair the stucco imperfections, and avoid uneven distribution of the paint. These fillers will need to be blended between the new and original stucco and are best left to a professional who can ensure even blending, as it can be a complicated process. If your stucco is new, it will need at least 60 days to form and harden and will then need to be pressure washed to remove any dirt or chipped paint.
Once prepped, stucco will soak up most of the first coat, especially if applied to a cement base. Therefore it’s best to use primer for the first coat, then go back a second (and even a third) time with the chosen paint to bring out the desired color.
Have a Game Plan
Take the time to establish an effective painting game plan. Going in blind can seriously affect the turnout of the paint job. When it comes to exterior painting, you will need to make sure you have all the necessary resources available and that you’ve planned accordingly for weather and other possible obstacles. Check to make sure you have a proper way of reaching the entire area to be painted by having the necessary ladder and painting tools or have an effective way of cleaning your walls beforehand with a pressure washer. If you don’t have all the essential tools, having a professional painter with qualified experience and proper equipment already on hand will save you lots of time, stress and money.
If you’re looking to freshen up your home with a stucco paint job, the experts at Texas Professional Painting are San Antonio house painters with years of qualified stucco painting experience and can help you bring your vision to life. Get your free stucco painting estimate today!
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