What to Know Before Painting a Stucco Home
Stucco has been used for centuries and remains a popular option for residential properties, with nearly 25% of single-family homes, because of its durability and aesthetics. While it's a fantastic exterior option, it can be more finicky than other materials to paint.
Refreshing its look can help add value and protect the material, so let's dive into some expert recommendations the Get Fresh Paint pros use.
Know Local Codes
Before starting your project, check for any local building regulations or codes. Depending on your area, they might have specific rules for accepted paint types, application processes, and preparation.
Not adhering to guidelines could negatively affect the value of your home. If you live in an HOA, you could incur extra fees or have to redo the project altogether, so due your diligence and research local regulations before proceeding, it just might save you time and money.
Start With an Inspection
Stucco has some small issues that can arise, like peeling and cracking, and you may need to do repairs first. Completing a thorough inspection and looking for small cracks or fractures around doors and windows can help you catch these issues before they become larger problems.
If you're finding odd discoloration or large pieces of stucco missing, this could indicate a bigger problem, like moisture building up behind the stucco, and you may want to contact a contractor.
Do a Thorough Prep Job
While it is an extra step, prepping is critical to ensure the paint adheres to the surface for a flawless finish. The stucco should always be clean, dirt and debris-free, and a pressure washer is a great option to do this step quickly. You can also add an eco-friendly mild detergent to remove any built-on grime, and always let the stucco completely dry before moving forward.
If you notice a lot of loose fragments or want a smoother surface, you can sand stucco before cleaning it, but be careful not to damage it in the process.
Apply a Primer
Once you've done the repairs and the cleaning is finished, use a waterproofing primer to create a barrier for a non-gritty and smooth finish by sealing the pores in the masonry. The stucco is extremely absorbent, so using an acrylic latex block filler will maximize coverage as it soaks into the pores and supports the top coat.
Get to Painting
The paint can be applied with brushes, rollers, and sprayers, and if you are using a primer, chances are you will only need one top coat. If the surface has a lot of texture, we recommend going back over it with a roller for extra coverage.
Always work your way from the top down and in small sections, and follow the manufacturer's directions to get optimum paint application.
Your Stucco Painting Specialists in the Twin Cities
With any major project around your home, if you don't have the know-how, it can save you time and money to work with a professional instead of trying to DIY it.
Stucco can be more challenging to paint, and when you need an expert with over 15 years in the business, Get Fresh Paint is a locally owned and operated company in the Twin Cities. Our team also offers crown molding installation and popcorn ceiling removal services to cover all your painting needs and give you a professional finish.
Your free quote is just one click away, or feel free to call our office at 612-325-1409 today to get started.