What Type of Paint Should One Use on a Stucco House?

Types

• Either elastomeric or exterior latex paint formulated for masonry surfaces are good alternatives for protecting your home. Both products will fill in the fine, hairline cracks common in stucco construction. Elastomeric products have the advantage of providing a thick, flexible, weather-proof shield.

Elastoeric and Latex Paints

• Elastomeric paint is made from polymeric acrylic materials and is not recommended for spray application. Elastomeric paints are exceptionally durable, but they are expensive. Latex-based paints are cheaper and easier to apply, and in climates in which wind, rain and temperature extremes are not factors, these paints provide an effective and attractive surface on stucco.

Bottom Line

• Choosing the right paint can protect your home from serious damage and save you from costly repairs. Untreated, raw stucco is a porous surface that can become saturated with moisture, leading to potentially dangerous conditions such as structural rot, mildew or mold. Wind-driven rain and freeze-thaw conditions can erode a stucco exterior.

Follow Directions

• Whether you opt for elastoeric or latex paint, it is important to properly prepare the stucco surface before you begin painting. Consult and follow the paint manufacturer's suggestions for preparation and application, including weather conditions.

A Job for Experts

• If the stucco surface has serious cracks or other damage, consult a professional with experience in stucco repair. Don't hesitate to get competitive bids or ask for references.