Can you paint stucco?

17 August 2024

Revitalizing your home’s exterior can improve its curb appeal and boost its overall value. If your home features stucco, you may wonder about the best way to enhance its longevity and appearance.

At Alderson Elite Painting, we have provided you with all the information you need on painting stucco. Continue reading and decide for yourself if this is a task you want to tackle!

Can you paint stucco?

Many clients often wonder if they can paint stucco due to the porous and rough surface. We always give an outstanding yes.

You can easily refresh the exterior stucco of your home by painting. Whenever your home starts looking dull or dingy, you want to update it.

Yet this can be daunting for most homeowners, and many tend to shy away from repainting stucco.

How to prep exterior stucco for painting?

Start by cleaning off any dust or grime. Using an appropriate degreaser or cleaner will get into all the grooves, nooks, and crannies of stucco. A stiff brush can also help clean the surface. Optionally, you can pressure wash the surface with hot water and soap to deep clean it. Once clean, allow the stucco to dry for 24 hours.

Visually inspect the stucco for small cracks or loose pieces. Before filling any small cracks with masonry caulk, remove and patch loose pieces with the proper material.

How to paint stucco

You may use a napped roller or a paint sprayer to prime and paint the stucco. It is ideal to cut in the edges and corners with a synthetic brush. An acrylic primer is an excellent choice since it adheres well to rough, uneven surfaces like stucco.

You may want to apply a second coat of primer for the best results.

You should also be cautious to allow enough time for drying between coats to prevent dripping.

Now you are ready to paint. Apply the paint in the same manner as the primer.

You may need twice as much paint to cover the stucco completely.

Conclusion

When it is time to update your exterior stucco with a fresh look, painting is one of the easiest options. As with any painting project, preparation is part of the job, and we understand that details matter.

Whether you have decided to complete your exterior revitalization or hire a professional team, we are here.

Why choose Alderson Elite Painting?

We have over 20 years of experience and expertise.
We have an outstanding reputation across Mississauga and the surrounding area.
We use the latest tools and practices to ensure every homeowner is satisfied.
We are dedicated to customer care and satisfaction.

If you are in the Mississauga area, contact Alderson Elite Painting to refresh your exterior. We have the right team to tackle the job.

Understanding Paint Drying and Curing Times

Before discussing wait times, it’s essential to differentiate between drying and curing:

Drying: This refers to the evaporation of solvents in the paint, allowing it to become touch-dry.
Curing: This is the chemical process where the paint hardens to its maximum durability.

Different types of paint have varying drying and curing times:

Latex (Water-Based) Paint:
- Dry to Touch: 1 hour
- Recoat Time: 4 hours
- Cure Time: 2-3 weeks
Oil-Based Paint:
- Dry to Touch: 6-8 hours
- Recoat Time: 24 hours
- Cure Time: 7 days

Source: The Sprucesrkchwsvtglubpi.blogspot.com+2The Spruce+2Angi+2

Factors Influencing Drying Times

Several factors can affect how quickly paint dries:

Humidity: High humidity levels slow down the evaporation process, extending drying times.
Temperature: Cooler temperatures can delay drying, while warmer conditions speed it up.
Ventilation: Proper airflow helps in the evaporation of solvents.
Paint Thickness: Applying thick coats can trap solvents, prolonging drying.
Surface Type: Porous surfaces like wood absorb paint differently than non-porous ones like metal.

Tip: Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines on the paint can for specific drying and recoating times

Recommended Wait Times Between Coats

Adhering to recommended wait times ensures optimal adhesion and finish:

Latex Paint: Wait at least 4 hours before applying a second coat.
Oil-Based Paint: Allow 24 hours between coats.

Source: Angi

For specialty paints or finishes, consult the product’s technical data sheet or the manufacturer’s website.

Best Practices for Applying Multiple Coats

To achieve a professional finish:

Surface Preparation: Clean and sand surfaces to ensure proper adhesion.
Primer Application: Use a suitable primer, especially on new or repaired surfaces.
Thin Coats: Apply thin, even coats rather than one thick layer.
Drying Time: Respect the recommended drying times between coats.
Environmental Control: Maintain optimal temperature and humidity levels during painting.

Note: Using tools like a moisture meter can help determine if surfaces are ready for the next coat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Rushing Between Coats: Applying a second coat too soon can lead to peeling or bubbling.
Ignoring Environmental Conditions: Painting in unsuitable temperatures or humidity can affect drying.
Skipping Primer: This can result in poor adhesion and uneven color.
Overloading the Brush or Roller: This can cause drips and uneven application.
Neglecting Surface Preparation: Dirty or glossy surfaces can prevent paint from adhering properly.

Insight: Patience and attention to detail are key. Taking the time to do it right the first time saves time and resources in the long run.

Conclusion

Understanding how long to wait between coats of paint is crucial for achieving a lasting, professional-looking finish. Whether you’re a homeowner tackling a DIY refresh or a property investor preparing a unit for resale, following proper drying times ensures your paint adheres well, looks smooth, and lasts longer.

At Alderson Elite Painting, we take pride in delivering flawless results by following industry best practices—every time. From interior painting services to exterior transformations, our experienced team ensures every coat of paint is timed and applied with precision.

If you’re unsure about your next project or want guaranteed results, explore our full range of residential painting services or request a free quote today. Trust Alderson to make your next coat your best coat.