Stucco is one of the most common exteriors on Southern California homes, and it is not like painting smooth siding. It is porous and textured, so it takes more paint and needs careful prep. Two coatings come up most often: standard exterior acrylic paint and elastomeric coatings. Here is how they compare.
Can you paint stucco?
Yes. Stucco takes paint well when it is clean and sound. The surface is washed, hairline cracks are filled, gaps around windows, doors and trim are re-caulked, and bare or patched spots are primed. Skipping that prep is the usual reason stucco paint fails early.
Exterior acrylic paint
Acrylic exterior paint is breathable and comes in many colors and sheens. It is a common choice for stucco that is in good condition. Hairline cracks are filled before painting, and the paint is applied in the number of coats your estimate specifies.
Elastomeric coating
Elastomeric is a thick, flexible coating. It can bridge hairline cracks and shed water, which is why it is popular on stucco with fine cracking. It is also heavier and less breathable, so it isn’t the right choice for every wall. Applied over trapped moisture, any thick coating can cause problems, which is why we look at your walls before recommending it.
| Exterior acrylic | Elastomeric | |
|---|---|---|
| Thickness | Standard | Thick and flexible |
| Hairline cracks | Filled before painting | Can bridge fine cracks |
| Breathability | Breathable | Heavier, less breathable |
| Often a fit for | Stucco in good condition | Fine cracking that needs to shed water |
Signs your stucco needs repainting
- A chalky powder comes off when you rub the wall
- Color has faded, especially on south- and west-facing walls
- Paint is peeling, flaking or bubbling
- Hairline cracks are showing
- Caulk has cracked or pulled away
Larger or structural cracks need stucco repair before any paint goes on. Learn more about our process on the stucco painting page, or see our exterior painting services.
Ready for a written estimate? Request an estimate or call (714) 553-4405. We’re open every day, 9 am to 6 pm.
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