Is your stucco starting to show cracks, fading, or chalky paint? Many property owners don't realize that stucco is not entirely maintenance-free. It's a painted surface that needs care over time. Left untreated, those small hairline cracks can grow, and faded paint leaves stucco exposed to the elements.
That's where a fresh coat of paint and careful prep come in. At Roe Painting, we've been helping home and business owners keep stucco surfaces looking sharp and protected for over 25 years, from repairing minor cracks to applying high-quality coatings built for durability.
In this article, we'll cover what you need to know about painting stucco, handling cracks, and keeping your exterior in great shape for years to come.
What is Stucco and Does It Need to Be Painted?
Stucco is a cement-based exterior finish that's valued for its durability, texture, and classic look. You'll often see it on older homes, custom builds, or as an accent on homes in places like Boise and northern Nevada.
What many people don't realize is that stucco isn't maintenance-free. Stucco is porous, which means it naturally absorbs moisture, dust, and UV damage over time. Most new stucco these days comes with intergral color, meaning, the pigment of the chosen color is mixed into the stucco and there is no need to paint the stucco after it is installed. However, the intergral color does not last forever, and just like paint, it can fade, chalk (powdery substance releasing) and crack over time. Older stucco surface have typically been painted over for these reasons.
Just like siding or wood trim, intergral colored stucco or painted over stucco needs to be repainted every 7-10 years, depending on climate and sun exposure. In areas with strong UV rays or freeze-thaw cycles, repainting may be needed a little sooner to prevent damage.
Regular painting doesn't just improve curb appeal. It extends the life of the stucco itself. Without that protective coating, stucco can chalk, fade, or even start to crumble in spots, leading to more costly repairs down the road.
Signs Your Stucco Might Need Help
Like any exterior surface, stucco changes with age. Most people first notice issues with the paint, like fading, discoloration, or a chalky film that rubs off your hand. These are signs that the protective paint layer is wearing down and the stucco underneath is exposed.
Another common concern is cracks. Small, hairline cracks up to about 1/8 inch are typical as stucco expands and contracts with the weather or from settling of the building. These can usually be repaired as part of a professional paint job. Larger cracks, crumbling areas, or sections pulling away from the wall are more serious and often require a stucco specialist before painting can begin.
Other problems to keep an eye out for include:
- Stains or streaks from water runoff
- Dark patches that may indicate trapped moisture
- Uneven texture where stucco has worn away
Catching these early is key. A fresh coat of paint combined with minor crack repair can protect your home for years, while delaying maintenance can lead to more extensive (and expensive!) repairs later.
Can Small Stucco Cracks Be Repaired Before Painting?
Here's how to evaluate if your stucco is in need of just a simple repair and fresh coat of paint, or if something more major is required.
Crack Type |
What it Means |
What Roe Painting Can Do |
When to Call a Specialist |
| Hairline (less than 1/8") | Normal settling or weathering | Fill and seal before painting | |
| Small (1/8" to 1/4") | Early signs of stress | May be sealed with flexible patching products, then painted, however filled cracks will show differently | Stucco contractor recommended if you don't want to see the repairs |
| Large (over 1/4") | Possible structural issues or water damage | Stucco contractor recommended | |
| Crumbling/loose stucco | Surface failure | Stucco contractor required before painting |
Roe Painting can handle the minor cracks that naturally occur, but bigger problems need a stucco specialist before paint goes on.
Can You DIY Stucco Crack Repair?
Technically, yes. There are DIY stucco repair kits available at most hardware stores. However, there are a few important drawbacks to keep in mind:
- Color and texture rarely match. Even if you seal the crack, the patch often stands out once painted.
- Durability is limited. Many DIY fillers don't bond as well as professional-grade products, which means cracks can reopen.
- Prep matters. If the crack isn't cleaned and sealed properly, paint won't adhere the way it should
For small hairline cracks (1/8" or less), property owners can try a DIY kit if they want a quick fix. But for the best long-term results and to ensure the paint job lasts, it's best to have cracks repaired professionally as part of a full stucco painting project.
DIY can work in a pinch, but a professional repair gives you a seamless look and longer protection.
What Kind of Paint Works Best on Stucco?
Not every exterior paint is right for stucco. Because stucco is porous and expands and contracts with the weather, it needs coatings that are flexible, breathable, and highly durable.
Some of the most common paints for stucco include:
- Elastomeric Coatings- Known for flexibility and water resistance. It will help hide hairline cracks and will move with the stucco to a certain point. However, elasotmeric coatings are soft and flexible and will hold dirt over time, making them hard to keep clean.
- Acrylic Masonry Paint- Breathable, durable, and UV-resistant. This is your typical exterior flat paint. Always opt for a high-quality product and ensure it's 100% acrylic for the most durable results.
- Elastomeric Coating with an Acrylic Topcoat - Want the best of both worlds? Start with one coat of elastomeric coating to hide the cracks and give you the flexibility, and then topcoat it with a high-quality acrylic coating that won't hold dirt and will be easier to clean or recoat down the road.
At Roe Painting, we carefully select paints designed specifically for stucco so your finish not only looks great but also stands up to Boise's sun and freeze-thaw cycles and Elko's harsh desert climate.
How to Keep Stucco Surfaces Looking Great and Functioning Well
Once your stucco is painted, a little upkeep goes a long way toward keeping it in great shape:
- Inspect annually for new cracks, fading, or chalking.
- Wash gently with a hose or low-pressure washer to remove dust and dirt. You can use a mild house cleaning solution like Jomax if desired.
- Repaint every 7-10 years, depending on sun exposure and climate.
- Address small cracks quickly to prevent them from spreading.
- Redirect sprinklers so water doesn't spray directly on stucco and trim back bushes or trees that hold moisture against the walls.
Regular maintenance not only keeps your home looking sharp, but it also extends the life of the stucco itself, saving you from more costly repairs down the road.
Bring New Life to Your Stucco with Professional Painting
Stucco is one of the most durable and timeless finishes you can have on a home, but like any painted surface, it needs the right care. A fresh coat of paint not only restores color and curb appeal, but it also protects your stucco from cracks, moisture, and weather damage.
At Roe Painting, we help homeowners and property managers in the Treasure Valley and northern Nevada keep their stucco looking its best. From repairing minor cracks to applying high-quality coatings designed for stucco, our team ensures your exterior is both beautiful and protected for years to come.
Ready to refresh your stucco? Request a complimentary quote and let us help you bring lasting color and protection to your home.
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