Painting a stucco home can feel like a daunting task, especially with all the myths and misconceptions floating around about what you can and can’t do. As the face behind Trusted House Painter, I’m here to clear up the confusion and give you practical, straightforward advice on how to paint your stucco home the right way.
Whether your stucco is freshly applied or has been painted before, understanding the right products and preparation methods is key to achieving a durable, beautiful finish.
Can You Paint Stucco?
The short answer is yes, you can absolutely paint stucco. Stucco is a popular exterior finish, and painting it is a common way to refresh and protect your home. The house behind me in the example was painted by a professional painting team using a flat acrylic latex stucco paint, and the results speak for themselves.
However, before you grab your paintbrush, there are some important considerations to keep in mind. The condition of your stucco plays a significant role in determining whether painting is a good option or if more extensive repair work is needed.
When Should You Consider Stucco Repair Instead of Painting?
If your stucco is seriously deteriorated — meaning it’s crumbly, flaky, or falling apart — painting alone won’t solve the problem. In these cases, re-stuccoing or repairing the surface is the best course of action. Painting over damaged stucco can trap moisture and cause further issues down the line.
On the other hand, if your stucco is in decent shape but just needs a fresh coat, painting is a fantastic way to improve your home’s curb appeal and protect the surface.
Choosing the Right Paint for Stucco
There are different types of paint suited for stucco, and choosing the right one depends on the condition of your surface and what you want to achieve.
Acrylic Latex Paint for Stucco
For stucco that is in good condition and has been painted before, a high-quality flat acrylic latex paint is an excellent choice. This type of paint provides good coverage, durability, and breathability, which is essential for stucco surfaces.
In the example house, the painters used a flat acrylic latex stucco paint without needing to prime first because the surface had been painted previously. They also repaired a few cracks by caulking them before applying the paint, ensuring a smooth and even finish.
Elastomeric Paint for Crack-Prone Stucco
Sometimes, your stucco might have hairline cracks or be in rougher shape. In these cases, an elastomeric paint is the better option. Elastomeric paints are thicker and more flexible than acrylic latex paints. They are designed to bridge hairline cracks and provide a durable, heavy-duty coating that can expand and contract with the surface.
Elastomeric paint creates a protective, waterproof barrier and is especially useful if your stucco is prone to cracking due to weather or settling.
However, there are some trade-offs:
- Elastomeric paint is much thicker, so it doesn’t spread as far — typically covering only 100 to 200 square feet per gallon, compared to 350 to 400 square feet for acrylic latex paint.
- It is generally more expensive than acrylic latex paint.
For the house example I showed, elastomeric paint wasn’t necessary because the surface was in good condition and only had minor cracks that could be caulked. A flat acrylic latex paint was sufficient and produced a great result.
Understanding Paint Layers and Stucco Breathability
One of the most important factors to consider when painting stucco is how many layers of paint are already on the surface. This is because stucco naturally allows your home to “breathe,” meaning it lets moisture and humidity escape to prevent damage.
When you paint stucco, you add a barrier that can reduce this breathability. If you apply too many layers of paint, you can trap moisture behind the paint, which can cause peeling, cracking, or even structural damage over time.
What Is Permeability and Why Does It Matter?
Permeability refers to how much water vapor can pass through a material. Stucco is naturally permeable, allowing your home to stay dry and healthy. Paint layers reduce permeability, so it’s crucial to avoid adding too many coats.
In the house example, there were already two coatings of paint stucco, and the new paint was the third coat. This is generally acceptable. But beyond three layers, you risk significantly reducing the stucco’s breathability, which could lead to moisture problems.
How To Manage Paint Layers on Stucco
- If your stucco has many layers of paint, consider removing some of the old layers before repainting.
- Choose breathable paints designed for stucco to maintain permeability.
- Inspect the surface carefully for signs of trapped moisture or bubbling paint.
Practical Steps for Painting Your Stucco Home
If your stucco is in good condition and you’ve decided to paint, here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you get a great result:
- Inspect the surface: Look for cracks, flaking, or damaged areas.
- Clean the stucco: Remove dirt, mold, and mildew with a pressure washer or scrub brush and mild detergent.
- Repair cracks and holes: Use a good-quality caulk or patching compound designed for stucco.
- Choose the right paint: Select a flat acrylic latex paint for good condition stucco or elastomeric paint for more damaged surfaces.
- Prime if necessary: If your stucco is unpainted or has bare patches, apply a primer made for masonry surfaces.
- Apply paint: Use a roller or sprayer designed for textured surfaces, applying at least two coats for even coverage.
Remember, proper preparation is just as important as the paint you choose. Taking the time to fix cracks and clean the surface will extend the life of your paint job and keep your home looking fresh for years to come.
Where To Find Stucco Paint and More Tips
Most retail paint stores carry stucco-specific paints, including both acrylic latex and elastomeric options. Brands like Sherwin Williams offer products like Loxon, which is an excellent elastomeric paint designed to bridge cracks and protect paint stucco surfaces.
If you want more tips, advice, or professional painters to help with your project, you can visit Trusted House Painter. You can also reach out via phone at 1-866-724-6818 for personalized support and quotes from local professionals.
Final Thoughts
Painting your stucco home is definitely doable and can dramatically improve the look and longevity of your exterior. The key is assessing the condition of your stucco, choosing the right paint product, and understanding how paint layers affect the breathability of your home.
Flat acrylic latex paint is perfect for paint stucco that’s in good shape and previously painted. Elastomeric paint is your go-to for surfaces with hairline cracks or more wear and tear. Always keep permeability in mind to avoid trapping moisture and causing damage.
If you follow these guidelines, you’ll have a fresh, vibrant stucco exterior that stands up to the elements and enhances your home’s curb appeal.
For more expert painting advice and to connect with trusted professionals, visit TrustedHousePainter.com or call 1-866-724-6818. I’m here to help you paint your dream home with confidence!
