Month: June 2025
7 Warning Signs Your Exterior Stucco Needs Repainted
You can detect when your stucco may need a new coat of paint before obvious damage appears by regularly inspecting for subtle, early warning signs and changes in appearance or texture. Here’s what to look for:
1. Fading Colors: If the color of your stucco appears noticeably duller or faded compared to protected areas (like under eaves), this often means the paint’s UV protection is wearing thin, even if there’s no visible cracking or peeling yet.
2. Chalking: Run your hand over the stucco. If you notice a white, powdery residue on your fingers, this “chalking” suggests the paint is breaking down and losing its protective qualities, signaling it’s time to repaint.
3.Loss of Sheen or Surface Texture: If the finish looks flat, patchy, or inconsistent—especially after rain—this can be an early sign that the paint film is thinning and no longer providing a uniform barrier.
4.Minor Hairline Cracks: While small cracks are common and not always urgent, their appearance can indicate the paint’s flexibility and protection are diminishing. If you see new or multiplying hairline cracks, it’s a good time to consider repainting before moisture intrusion becomes a problem.
5.Soft or Spongy Areas: If an area of the stucco doesn’t quite look right gently press on the stucco. If it feels soft or spongy, even without visible damage, moisture may be getting through the paint layer, suggesting the protective coating is compromised.
6.Caulking Deterioration: Check the caulking around windows, doors, and trim. If it’s cracked, shrinking, or pulling away, it can allow water behind the stucco, and it’s wise to repaint after re-caulking.
7.Blistering or Bubbling: Raised or bubble-like areas—even if small—can be an early sign of trapped moisture under the paint, which can eventually lead to peeling or more severe damage.
Be Proactive
If your stucco paint is more than 7–10 years old, or you notice any of the above issues, it’s a good idea to schedule a repaint before major problems develop. Regular inspections and early action help maintain your home’s appearance and prevent costly repairs.
At SCPC we are very proud of our reputation built over the last 22 years.
Stucco Painting Methods Used By Professional Painters
The proper application method is essential for obtaining professional results and durability when painting stucco exteriors. An experienced painter should use the following key application techniques where appropriate.
Paint Selection:
Acrylic latex paint is the best choice for stucco applications. In most cases, a flat-finish paint should be applied to preserve the stucco’s natural appearance.
Proper Surface Preparation:
The painters should ensure the stucco surface is free from dust and debris. In some cases, using pressurized air to remove dust works well. If the stucco is several years old, pressure washing is required.
Spraying Plus Backrolling:
Most professionals select airless sprayers for large exterior stucco surfaces because they provide complete, highly efficient surface coverage.
Backrolling:
You will observe a painter spraying, and then following right behind are other painters using rollers with a long nap between 1/2″ and 3/4″ to force the wet paint deeply into every crevice and divot. This method ensures that the paint adheres to the stucco for long-lasting protection.
Why is this information important to know?
By understanding these techniques, you will know the right questions to ask when choosing a professional stucco painting company.
SCPC has been painting stucco exteriors for 22 years in Sedona, Cottonwood, Jerome, Clarkdale, and other areas in the Verde Valley.
Check out our A+ rating on the Better Business Bureau:
https://www.bbb.org/us/az/cottonwood/profile/painting-contractors/scpc-paint-company-1126-1000077977