Repairing Guides

how to repair and paint stucco

by Aaliyah Trantow Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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How to Repair & Paint Stucco

  1. Completely Remove the Loose Stucco. Remove any loose stucco with a hammer and chisel until you get to solid stucco around the edges. ...
  2. Apply Building Paper & Metal Lath. Next, apply grade D building paper to act as a moisture barrier. ...
  3. Mix Your Stucco. Only mix enough stucco to use within 20 minutes. ...
  4. Apply 3 Coats of Stucco. ...
  5. Paint the Entire Surface. ...

Part of a video titled How to Repair Cracks and Holes in Stucco - YouTube
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For patches or cracks over 1/4 inch thick premix stucco patch should be applied in multiple layers.MoreFor patches or cracks over 1/4 inch thick premix stucco patch should be applied in multiple layers.

Full Answer

Can You repaint an already painted stucco house?

There are some advantages to repainting an already painted stucco finish but the prep work is usually the same. Pressure washing the stucco first is the best kind of prep work you can do and will increase the chances of the new paint sticking to the old paint.

Should you pressure wash the stucco before painting?

Pressure washing the stucco first is the best kind of prep work you can do and will increase the chances of the new paint sticking to the old paint.

How to repair cracks in stucco?

Now use a standard caulk gun to apply the stucco repair compound along the crack. As you go along, trowel the patch so that it matches the surrounding stucco finish.

Can stucco be repaired in Colorado?

EVER. DON’T PATCH OR PAINT YOUR STUCCO… EVER. Patching and painting is often prescribed as a repair option for stucco damage. What your contractor or painter may not tell you is that while it can cover up damage temporarily it is not a long term solution for stucco damage in Colorado’s Climate.

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Can stucco be patched and painted?

If there is existing water damage already in the stucco, the paint will only peel and crack again. If the root of the problem is not fixed first, painting will only be a waste of time. Furthermore, patching or painting might compound the issue of water getting into your the walls.

How do you repair stucco before painting?

2:238:19Painting Stucco & Repairing Cracks With Caulking & Elastomeric PaintYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipI'm just taking rubber gloves and using a caulking from Sir Williams 950 a and talking these crops.MoreI'm just taking rubber gloves and using a caulking from Sir Williams 950 a and talking these crops. And you're just trying to put just enough caulking on there just to build that croc. In.

How do you repair and match stucco?

3:3612:26Stucco patching and matching wall, Match your stucco patche - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBecause we're using I use Benoit as well again is a white cement. And the white cement when mixedMoreBecause we're using I use Benoit as well again is a white cement. And the white cement when mixed with can sand is about can when it's dried.

Is painting over stucco a good idea?

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.

Is it better to spray or roll paint on 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.

Do I need to prime stucco before painting?

While not technically necessary, it is strongly recommended that you prime your stucco before you begin to paint.

Do it yourself stucco repair?

0:593:03How to Repair Cracks and Holes in Stucco - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOr vertical surfaces. And dries to a firm durable material to apply stucco repair. Simply cut theMoreOr vertical surfaces. And dries to a firm durable material to apply stucco repair. Simply cut the nozzle tip on an angle with a utility knife to match the width of the crack.

How do you redo exterior stucco?

Steps for Repairing StuccoStep 1: Break Off Loose Stucco. Photo by Reena Bammi. ... Step 2: Chip Away At The Edges. Photo by Reena Bammi. ... Step 3: Cover The Exposed Lath. Photo by Reena Bammi. ... Step 4: Add Mesh. Photo by Reena Bammi. ... Step 5: Mix The Stucco. ... Step 6: Sling It. ... Step 7: Scratch It. ... Step 8: Apply Second Coat.More items...

How do you update exterior stucco?

Instead of replacing the stucco, use a few steps to update it.Pressure wash the stucco. ... Fill small cracks with a caulking gun loaded with acrylic-based caulk. ... Repair larger cracks. ... Prime the stucco using an acrylic based sealant. ... Cut in the paint using a soft-bristle brush. ... Spray the stucco wall with paint.

Is it OK to power wash 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.

Do I need special paint for stucco?

Q: Do you need special paint for stucco? Yes, to paint stucco surfaces, choose either acrylic, masonry, or elastomeric paint. Other types of paint may look good going on but be prone to bubbling, peeling, and cracking.

How much does it cost to paint 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.

How do you fill holes in stucco?

1:113:03How to Repair Cracks and Holes in Stucco - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd dries to a firm durable material to apply stucco repair. Simply cut the nozzle tip on an angleMoreAnd dries to a firm durable material to apply stucco repair. Simply cut the nozzle tip on an angle with a utility knife to match the width of the crack.

How do you repair textured stucco?

6:3511:50Stucco Patch Demo - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe stucco has really sanded and so you need to be able to get that safe into the crack. But I canMoreThe stucco has really sanded and so you need to be able to get that safe into the crack. But I can learn this this trick that some haters. Use because then a lot of people don't want to open.

How do you blend stucco patches?

0:001:19How to blend new stucco into existing in a stucco, Blending ... - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipClean float look at the water take that water put it in on your float. Take the stucco which is setMoreClean float look at the water take that water put it in on your float. Take the stucco which is set now for all fifteen minutes and just go in circular motions.

How do you fix stucco peeling?

0:002:41Learn to remove loose stucco then re-stucco the hole or patch - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBrush it real well then I'm going to use well cream how'd they use well screech begin with we wouldnMoreBrush it real well then I'm going to use well cream how'd they use well screech begin with we wouldn't have come off but everything looks pretty good here.

How do I remove stucco from a wall?

Remove any loose stucco with a hammer and chisel until you get to solid stucco around the edges. Stop once you reach the metal mesh underneath. When you get to the metal mesh, carefully cut it out and remove any fasteners. Brush the area clean to remove any debris.

How do I apply stucco to metal?

The first layer is called the scratch coat. Cover the metal lath entirely with a layer of stucco. Put on your gloves and use your trowel to apply the stucco. Once that layer dries, scratch the surface with X patterns. These patterns are why it’s called the scratch coat. It might seem counterintuitive to damage the layer you just applied, but it actually helps the next coat adhere better. Allow that layer to cure by covering it with plastic and holding the plastic there with painters tape. Once it’s firm enough, add the second layer and cover it back up. The only layer that should completely dry is the final layer.

How long does it take for stucco to dry?

Before you can paint, you’ll need to wait seven to 10 days for the stucco to fully cure. How long you should wait depends on the product you buy. Once enough time has passed, you can apply your painter’s tape and a coat of exterior masonry primer. Brush the edges and roll on the rest. The primer will need time to dry as well. Check the label on your product to find out how long to wait. As with the primer, brush your exterior masonry paint around the edges and roll on the rest. Let the first coat of paint dry and apply a second coat. Carefully remove the painter’s tape, and you’ll have a uniform surface in color and texture. Are you planning on painting over your old stucco? Let us know in the comments!

Step 1: Inspect the House

Before you paint, check the condition of the stucco. Are there cracks? Hairline cracks are normal and typically will be filled with the paint you apply, says Gregg Cantor, president and CEO of Murray Lampert Design, Build, Remodel in San Diego. Stress cracks coming off the corners of windows and doors that run toward the ground are common, too.

Step 2: Pressure Wash the House

The stucco should be free of dirt and debris before painting. Pressure washing is a fast and efficient way to clean it, Cantor says.

Step 3: Prep the Stucco

Cantor suggests repairing small cracks and holes with exterior acrylic caulk. Larger cracks or places with damage can be repaired with stucco patch. If the stucco was previously painted and the paint has chipped in places, lightly sand the edges of the chipped areas with 80- or 100-grit sandpaper to remove any loose paint.

Step 4: Choose your paint

For stucco, Cantor recommends an acrylic latex paint in a flat sheen. “Acrylic is a good choice because stucco is porous and needs to breathe,” he says. “So the paint you apply needs to breathe too.” Acrylic latex is easy to apply and cleans up with water.

Step 5: Prime the stucco, if needed

If this is the first time the stucco will be painted, you should prime the walls first with an acrylic latex block filler, says Ashley Kloehn of Hirshfield’s in Minneapolis. He recommends Benjamin Moore block fillers, like Ultra Spec Interior Exterior High Build Acrylic Masonry Primer (product no. 609).

Step 6: Apply the paint

First, cut in around the windows, doors and other trim with a brush. Then roll paint on the walls with a thick-napped roller cover. Start at the top and work in small sections so you can keep a wet edge.

Before You Begin

Pressure wash the stucco before painting. Dirt and debris easily become lodged in the surface of stucco, and pressure washing is the only way to clean it —short of scrubbing the surface by hand.

The Best Paint for Stucco

Choose flat or satin exterior paint for stucco. Flat paint is more appropriate for the matte look of stucco, and it's easy to touch up without creating inconsistent spots, known as flashing. Satin can be used because it makes it easier to clean the stucco later on.

Instructions

Plug the pressure washer into a GFCI outlet and attach the hose to a hose bib. Power up the washer. Wash the stucco siding starting at the top and working downward. The very tops of walls tend to collect cobwebs and insect nests, while the very bottoms become dirty with splashed mud.

When to Call a Professional

For large holes in the stucco, or for holes that extend beyond the wire backing, hire a carpenter or contractor to repair the siding and the house's wall system. Because painting stucco can be tricky, large projects can become difficult—particularly since so much prep work is involved.

How long does it take for stucco to cure?

As you go along, trowel the patch so that it matches the surrounding stucco finish. Allow the repair to cure for 24 hours, then cover it with a water-based paint, preferably the same color as the home’s exterior. Advertisement.

How to fix a crack in a wall?

The first step may seem counterintuitive: Using a cold chisel and hammer, widen the crack to at least a quarter inch. The edges of the crack should be chiseled perpendicular to the wall. If possible, back cut the crack so that its base is slightly wider than its top.

Can you patch a crack in stucco?

If you have a small crack in your exterior stucco, you can patch it pretty easily—and you definitely should, or you may be in for more extensive repairs down the line. By Bob Vila. Photo: activerain.com.

Can you do stucco repair yourself?

As it is, yes, this is a job any do-it-yourselfer can handle. And it’s important work, so you’re right to have been vigilant. If rainwater were to penetrate behind the stucco, you might have a bigger problem on your hands. To repair stucco, you can use any number of commercially sold products.

Make time for these stucco repairs before they shorten the life of your home's exterior finish

Stucco is known for its durability, but does that make it maintenance-free? Not quite. With wear and tear over time, the surface can develop cracks, and there may be holes that need filling. Don’t ignore them.

How To Repair Small Stucco Cracks

It’s not uncommon for small “hairline” cracks to appear over time in stucco siding. Fortunately, they’re easy for homeowners to repair, says Gregg Cantor, president and CEO of Murray Lampert Design, Build, Remodel in San Diego.

How To Repair Larger Stucco Cracks or Small Holes

To repair a larger crack (1/4-in. or slightly wider) and small holes (like those left from bolts), you’ll need to do more prep work and use a different repair product. Cantor notes that the occasional larger crack isn’t uncommon. But if you have a lot of them, he says, there could be something more serious going on.

How To Repair Larger Areas of Damaged Stucco

If there’s a damaged area of stucco larger than a small hole — say a square foot or so — you may be able to do the repair work yourself. “The biggest challenge,” says Cantor, “will be getting the texture of the stucco repair to match the existing texture.”

Blisters in Stucco?

If your stucco has bubbles on the surface, because the paint has blistered or the stucco itself is bubbling, call a stucco pro. “This could be a sign that there’s a moisture problem and repairing the blister won’t be a permanent fix,” says Cantor.

Stucco Repair and Maintenance Tips

Inspect your siding at least annually to spot cracks, holes or areas where stucco may be deteriorating. Repair it as soon as you can to avoid more extensive damage.

Do you need to patch stucco before repainting?

Patches: If you have any patches to address on your stucco, then you should do it before repainting the stucco, as it will save time and money in the long run. A primer is recommended on fresh stucco repairs and usually a masonry primer is best suited for the job, due to the initial (higher) ph levels of the cement.

Can you pressure wash stucco?

Pressure Washing: There is no real "magic number" when it comes to psi but you want to remove staining and have enough force to clean out the rougher areas of the stucco texture, if you have a rougher texture. If the stucco looks cleaner after pressure washing, then chances are you are using enough pressure.

Can you paint stucco over stucco?

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.

Can you use acrylic paint on stucco?

You will want to do your research when it comes to painting over certain paint coatings, like elastomeric paints. If you have an acrylic paint on your walls, then it is safe to use another acrylic paint and is usually the paint I recommend for stucco myself.

How often should I paint stucco?

Once you’ve painted your stucco, you’ll have to paint forever. The average homeowner paints every six to seven years. And as more layers of paint are applied, your home starts losing its original stucco characteristics. We are a different kind of stucco restoration company.

How old does a stucco house have to be to fail?

Every year we see many stucco homes and buildings fail before they even reach ten years old. Very simply, they use cheap, fast, and low-quality materials.

What causes stucco to crumble in Colorado?

Freeze and thaw cycles are the primary cause of stucco damage in Colorado. The result of this damage is deep cracks spreading across the face of your stucco or in many cases, the stucco begins to crumble and come apart by delamination.

Can you patch stucco in Colorado?

Patching and painting is often prescribed as a repair option for stucco damage. What your contractor or painter may not tell you is that while it can cover up damage temporarily it is not a long term solution for stucco damage in Colorado’s Climate. Let’s talk about the two primary reasons stucco fails in Colorado.

Can stucco cracks be patched?

Don’t Patch! Stucco cracks happen, but in our Colorado climate they go deeper and wider causing the system to fracture.When cracks spread across the face of your walls it can start to look like a “road map”. Sometimes whole sections of the stucco can separate exposing the grey base coat.

Do stucco repair men have training?

Few stucco repair men or painters have formal training in stucco cladding or building science. Please don’t waste your hard earned money with bad stucco repairs, just to have them come back. We believe most property owners want to preserve and protect both their home and their investment value.

Does stucco drain water?

You’ve probably noticed that when it rains or snow melts your stucco absorbs water and then drains and evaporates it out. This is normal and the way the system was designed to work. This design works great in most climates… except here in Colorado.

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