Stucco Painting: A Guide from Malone Painting

Is your St. Louis stucco home looking a little tired? A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for both your home's curb appeal and its overall protection. But stucco has unique characteristics that require specific painting techniques.

Here at Malone Painting, we're your local experts in stucco painting. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the process, from choosing the right paint to achieving a flawless finish.

Why Painting Your Stucco Home Matters

Stucco is a popular choice for St. Louis homes due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. However, over time, it can become susceptible to cracking, fading, and efflorescence (a white chalky residue). A fresh coat of paint not only enhances your home's beauty, but also:

• Protects from the elements: St. Louis's weather can be harsh. A high-quality paint acts as a barrier against rain, snow, and UV rays, safeguarding your stucco from deterioration.
  

• Increases curb appeal: A well-painted stucco home is a showstopper on any street. It can boost your property value and make a great first impression.

Choosing the Perfect Paint for Your Stucco

• Skip the generic brands: Invest in high-quality paint designed for stucco surfaces. Look for major brand names and expect to spend around $25 per gallon.

• Embrace color palettes: Gone are the days of single-color stucco houses. Explore using multiple colors to accentuate your home's architectural features. A reputable paint store or color consultant can help you create a stunning color scheme.
  

Preparing Your Stucco for Painting

Proper preparation is key to a long-lasting paint job. Here's what you'll need to do:

• Power wash: Give your stucco a thorough cleaning to remove dirt, grime, and loose paint. Pay close attention to areas near the ground, which may require scrubbing with a coarse nylon brush and a solution of powdered laundry detergent and bleach (for mildew).

• Address efflorescence: Use a wire brush to remove this white powdery substance.

• Repair cracks selectively: Not all cracks need patching. Focus on wider cracks and use a high-quality exterior-grade acrylic latex caulk. Here's a pro tip: after caulking, use damp sponge and texturing sand to create a seamless finish and avoid the dreaded "road map" effect.

Painting Your Stucco

• Ditch the brush: Opt for a roller or an airless sprayer for better coverage. For larger projects, an airless sprayer is a time-saver. However, don't forget to use a deep nap roller (3/4" to 1") to ensure a smooth, even finish.

• Two coats are better than one: Due to stucco's absorbency and to conceal repairs, two coats are typically recommended.

Malone Painting: Your St. Louis Stucco Painting Experts

Painting your stucco home yourself can be a daunting task. Let the professionals at Malone Painting handle it! We have the experience and expertise to give your home a beautiful, long-lasting paint job. Contact us today for a free quote!