Stucco is a cement-based decorative plaster finish that can be applied over brick, concrete, wood, and other rough exterior or interior surfaces. Stucco has been utilized since ancient times as a protective covering for homes and shelters in hot and dry climates. There are many advantages to applying stucco to your modern home exterior, as it imparts a durable and lasting finish.

An experienced painter can create beautiful textures and apply exterior paint to stucco, providing your home with a stunning makeover. The professional team at Arias Painters in Burnsville, MN, explain the benefits of stucco and the best time to paint over your stucco surface.

A Guide to the Benefits of Stucco & the Best Time to Apply Exterior Paint

What Are the Benefits of Stucco?

Stucco homes exhibit improved energy efficiency. The layers of stucco form a concrete “cocoon” around your home, which means that the house will require less energy to keep heated during the winter and less energy to stay cool during the summer months. Stucco reduces street noise levels and acts a fire retardant. Depending on your climate, exterior stucco can last for over 50 years and pays for itself over time.

When Is Best Time to Apply & Cure?

For exterior surface applications to be successful, the stucco plaster should be damp and loose enough to be troweled. Sun and wind remove moisture from fresh plaster, causing it to dry out too fast. Overcast days when the temperature is around 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit are ideal for applying the plaster. Curing temperatures should be between 40 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit to reduce the risk of the wet plaster freezing and cracking in cold weather or drying too fast in hot weather, which weakens the material.

When Is the Best Time to Paint Stucco?

Wait four to five weeks after the stucco has cured and the moisture has evaporated before you apply exterior paint. Use a latex concrete primer that can be brushed or sprayed. Brush application will ensure that the primer covers all of the crevices. Once the primer dries, a top coat can then be applied with a spray machine or roller brush. If you are applying exterior paint to old stucco siding, you will likely need to hire a power washing service to remove surface dust and dirt that has accumulated over the years. A painting contractor will be able to perform the service or offer a qualified referral.

If you’re considering stucco or other interior and exterior paint services in Dakota County, call Arias Painters at (952) 210-2032. Visit their website for more information on all of their residential and commercial painting services.