Stucco is a building material that has been used for centuries to cover the exterior of buildings. It comes in different colors, but you can also change the stucco color without replacing it, saving you time and allowing your homeowner customers to enjoy their new-looking home quicker.
This article will show you how to do just that, outlining the paints that you can use on stucco walls and the steps you need to take to achieve a professional finish the first time.
Working With Stucco
As you may already know, stucco is a common building material used in many regions across the world, particularly in warmer and more humid climates. It is made from an aggregate, a binder and water. The aggregate can be natural or artificial sand, and the binder is usually Portland cement, lime or gypsum. Once water is added, the mixture starts the curing process, changing from a thick paste to a solid surface.
When working with stucco, it provides many benefits — including being used as an additional layer of insulation on the exterior of the home. It also offers protection from moisture damage and minimizes maintenance.
In addition, stucco also offers aesthetic versatility. When homeowners are ready for a design change, they have the option of painting the stucco to create a whole new look. That’s where you come in and make their stucco design dreams come true in just a few steps.
Selecting the Proper Primer and Paint
Because of stucco’s porous material, the paint will not adhere properly without first applying a primer. The primer also helps seal the stucco to stop it from drawing moisture out of the coating and discoloring it. However, with DRYLOK® Extreme Masonry Waterproofer, you simply apply two coats of paint and achieve the same results quicker.
DRYLOK® Extreme is designed for exterior masonry surfaces and is an excellent solution for painting stucco siding. When painting stucco, you want to use a flat sheen because it is the most natural and has minimal reflective qualities. Satin or eggshell will work, but they tend to create a plastic appearance, which is the opposite of what natural stucco is intended to convey.
Our masonry waterproofer is available in two standard colors, but there are eight additional shades that can be produced with our tints. Additional tints may be obtained from your local retailer.
5 Steps to Change the Color of Stucco
Some people change the look of their home by using different colors for each part, such as choosing a tan roof and brown siding with red brick trim. When painting stucco, the same results can be achieved.
Depending on the look your customer wants, you can paint the entire home or just one side or section at a time instead. But before tackling the project, it’s important to know what steps to take to not only meet but surpass your customers’ expectations. Use the checklist below to ensure you’ve properly prepared the surface for the new color to produce a flawless design.
1. Inspect the Stucco for Major Cracks and Issues
The first step in changing the color of stucco is to inspect it for major cracks and issues. These will need to be repaired before you can paint the stucco. There are many products on the market that you can use to repair small cracks and holes, but we recommend DRYLOK® Fast Plug, as it can be used on dry or wet surfaces and sets in just three to five minutes. For larger cracks, back chisel the area out so the patch can lock into the adjacent edges of the existing stucco.
2. Pressure Wash the Stucco
Pressure washing the stucco will provide a clean surface, but you also need to be careful — if the pressure is too high, you can end up damaging the surface, and repairs will prolong the project. Set the pressure at about 1,500 psi, and use a 25 or 40-degree nozzle.
Be sure to keep a safe distance away when starting the process, and move closer one step at a time until you obtain the desired results. This will remove any dirt, dust or debris on the surface. During this phase, remove chipped or broken stucco and complete all repairs before painting. If there are stubborn areas, you may want to address them with a wire brush.
3. Repair small Holes and Cracks with Acrylic Caulk
After you have cleaned the stucco, you can repair any small holes or cracks with a high-quality acrylic caulk like DRYLOK® Masonry Crack Filler. This is a quick and easy fix that seals, waterproofs and repairs cracks in stucco and other masonry surfaces. It can also be painted over in just an hour.
4. Use a Waterproofer to Seal and Protect the Cleaned and Repaired Stucco
After you have repaired any small holes or cracks, you should seal and protect the stucco with a waterproofer. If you are using DRYLOK® Extreme, you get the benefit of having both the paint and sealer in the same can.
It is mildew resistant, guaranteed to stop water up to 15 psi and resists Category 4 (140+ mph) hurricane winds. DRYLOK® also backs their product with a 15-year warranty, so your customers can rest easy knowing their siding is in good hands.
5. Apply the Chosen Paint
DRYLOK® Extreme is easy to apply and can be used above or below grade. Two coats are recommended as a minimum to meet the warranty requirements. It is an extremely versatile product and can be applied to damp or dry surfaces, although dry is preferred. When you’re starting to paint, be sure to adhere to the following guidelines:
Make sure the temperature is above 50 degrees.
Paint when there is no rain in the forecast for at least 24 hours.
If applying the first coat to bare masonry, use a ¾ nap roller and back brush. If using a brush instead of a roller, use a high-quality nylon bristle brush.
Give the first coat at least two hours to dry, and then apply the second coat with a roller, brush or sprayer.
Do not dilute the paint.
Maintenance to Keep Stucco Looking Great
Stucco is a great way to update the look of a home, but it requires some regular maintenance to keep it looking new. Here are a few maintenance tips you can share with your customers:
Clean the stucco regularly by pressure washing it. This will remove any dirt, dust or debris on the surface.
Repair any small holes or cracks with DRYLOK® Masonry Crack filler. It is a quick and easy fix that will seal the cracks and prevent them from getting bigger.
Keep any plants and trees away from the stucco, if possible. To avoid damage or staining, they should be pruned regularly by a professional.
Utilize DRYLOK® to Properly Seal and Waterproof Freshly-Painted Stucco Homes
DRYLOK® masonry paint and sealers will protect stucco exteriors from the elements by inhibiting UV rays, as well as mold and mildew. Once the stucco is painted, you can apply a coat of DRYLOK® Siloxane 7 penetrating sealer to help control efflorescence and surface staining while minimizing the deterioration caused by moisture. It is clear and won’t affect the underlying stucco color, and it helps your customers enjoy the stucco-look for years to come.
Ready to get started? Contact us today for more information on our complete line of products and where you can find and purchase them.
