How To Spray Exterior Walls With Stucco?

Discover the best techniques and tips for spraying stucco on exterior walls with expert advice. This includes preparing and painting stucco, including caulking and back-rolling techniques. Stucco is a versatile and wet exterior material that has been used for centuries. To clean exterior stucco walls, apply a low-pressure spray to remove dirt and help paint stick. To clean, apply pressure washing detergent and let it sit for 10 minutes before setting a pressure washer.

Do-it-yourselfers can apply spray stucco on walls, covering every coat of stucco, from base coats to finish coats. The best way to paint a stucco exterior is to spray, brush, or roll it, using AURA® Exterior paint. Start at the ceiling or top of the wall and work downwards. Start spraying in one area and move in a slow, deliberate manner.

Stucco can be painted using a roller or airless sprayer, but a brush is not recommended. A roller works well for small jobs, but a heavy texture roller is recommended for larger jobs. Living in an area with stucco may require a roller first, and an 18″ roller is a time saver.

What ruins stucco?

Stucco crumbles can be caused by various factors such as age, stress, pest infestations, settling, water damage, vibrations, impact accidents, and improper installation. As more stucco crumbles away, the problem worsens, allowing water to seep inside. A stucco evaluation is necessary to identify the cause and provide remediation recommendations. Indentations or soft spots in stucco may indicate water damage beneath the plaster, which can require extensive structural repairs and complications like mold and rot. Annual evaluations are recommended to minimize future repairs. If stucco is EIFS or has EPS Plant-On bands, it may be affected by various factors.

What are the disadvantages of painting stucco?

The cost of painting stucco houses can be considerable, with estimates ranging from $3, 600 to $7, 200. This is due to the higher repair costs and potential for peeling over time that are inherent to the material. Notwithstanding these disadvantages, it is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution for stucco homes.

How many years does stucco last?

Stucco siding is a highly durable building material that can last over 50 years and even 80 years due to its ability to expand and contract with the weather. It is also resistant to rot, mold, and mildew. The longevity of stucco siding depends on several factors, including its maintenance. While it requires minimal upkeep compared to other materials, proper preservation can significantly reduce its life expectancy.

To maintain stucco siding, homeowners should periodically wash it to remove dirt or dust build-up and regularly inspect it for cracks, bubbles, and peeling. Failure to do so can result in a significant decrease in its lifespan.

Do you have to backroll after spraying stucco?

It is recommended by reputable professionals in the field of house painting that each coat of stucco paint, or at the very least the initial coat, be back-rolled in order to guarantee optimal protection and quality coverage. This method effectively addresses the numerous gaps, crevices, nooks, and crannies that are inherent to stucco.

Can you spray stucco with water?

To reduce cracking in newly installed stucco, apply an even coat of water to the walls for 2-3 days after installation. Use a fan-style hose attachment or your thumb to gently and evenly coat the walls, allowing the color coat to cure evenly and relieve stress on the wall. Avoid slamming doors or windows during the first few weeks to prevent cracking. Properly installed stucco requires minimal maintenance year-round.

To prevent dirt from splashing onto the wall for the first 30 days, lay down cover plastic on splash zones or redirect sprinklers. Once the contractor has finished their work, ask for extra plastic to use during rains. This will help prevent dirt from getting trapped in the texture and making it difficult to clean off the wall. Properly installed stucco requires minimal maintenance year-round.

Can you paint exterior stucco yourself?

To paint a stucco exterior, use spray, brush, or roll methods. Rent a paint sprayer if you don’t own one and use AURA® Exterior paint. Opt for a flat sheen to mask imperfections. Back roll or brush the stucco for an even finish. If painting by hand, cut in edges before applying an even coat. Use a roller nap that corresponds to the texture level of the stucco. Apply 30 to 50 percent more paint than usual due to its rougher texture. After the first coat is dry, apply a second coat and allow the stucco to cure fully before returning it to everyday use.

Can you spray stucco without backrolling?

It is recommended by reputable professionals in the field of house painting that each coat of stucco paint be back-rolled in order to achieve optimal protection and quality coverage, even when the application is conducted using a sprayer.

Is it better to spray or roll exterior stucco?

Stucco can be painted using a roller or an airless sprayer, with a brush not recommended. A roller is suitable for small jobs but can be overwhelming on larger projects. For larger jobs, consider using an airless sprayer. Use a deep nap roller (3/4 to 1″) to work the paint into the surface for a uniform surface. Stucco typically requires two coats due to its high absorption and to conceal cracks and other repairs. A deep nap roller is recommended for a uniform surface.

Can you spray on exterior stucco?

Stucco, a prevalent construction material, is composed of synthetic substances, including acrylic fiber, which impart durability and resistance to the elements. It is capable of withstanding a variety of climatic conditions and has a lifespan of several decades. The repair of cracks or holes may be accomplished through the application of new stucco.

Can you spray stucco with a texture sprayer?

Graco’s exterior texture sprayer offers flexibility for applying heavy coatings and synthetic stucco with aggregates up to 3mm. It features easy-to-disconnect couplings for quick pump replacement without special tools. The sprayer is factory tested and backed by a full warranty, ensuring reliable performance for years. The industry-leading warranty ensures the product’s quality and commitment to professional contractors, with over 80 years of experience in the industry.

Do I need to prime stucco before painting?

Apply a primer/sealer to every inch of stucco surface to improve adhesion, reduce porosity, protect against new stain alkalinity, and bind residual pigments. Professional painters use special equipment to spray elastomeric paints, which are thick and difficult to apply. Combining spraying with backrolling is the best method for desired paint thickness. For historic stucco homes, professional maintenance is crucial to prevent deterioration, and patching and repainting should be left to a professional.