If you want to raise your home’s curb appeal, painting your exterior plaster and stucco walls are an excellent option. Plaster and stucco walls are durable and long-lasting, which means splashing a new coat of paint can make them look brand new again.
However, painting these surfaces can be trickier than painting other types of walls because they have textured surfaces and can be more prone to cracking and peeling. However, plaster and stucco walls can look stunning and increase your home’s value when done properly.
Here are five tips to help you get the best results when painting your Bay Area home’s exterior plaster and stucco walls.
1. Clean the Walls Thoroughly
Before painting, you must ensure your walls are clean and debris-free. Take off dirt, dust, and grime from the surface using a power washer or a hose with a high-pressure nozzle. You can also scrub away any stubborn spots using a stiff-bristled brush. Dry the walls completely before proceeding to the next step.
2. Repair Any Damage and Defect
If you notice any cracks, holes, and other defects on your plaster or stucco walls, you must repair them before you begin painting. Use a patching compound or stucco repair kit to remove any gaps or cracks, and then smoothen the surface with a putty knife. Allow the repair to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
3. Prime the Surface
Before you start painting, it’s important to prime the surface to aid the new coat of paint in adhering to the surface properly.
To prime your plaster and stucco wall, use a high-quality primer designed for plaster and stucco surfaces, and apply it with a paintbrush or roller. Cover the entire surface evenly, and let the primer to dry completely before grabbing your brushes and paint in the next step.
4. Choose the Right Paint
The exterior walls of your home are subject to various weather conditions, including rain, sun, wind, and snow, which can cause them to look dull and unattractive. Painting your exterior walls is an excellent way to enhance the appearance of your home and protect it from the elements.
This makes picking and using the right paint for your exterior walls crucial to ensure long-lasting results. The best paint for exterior walls is a high-quality, 100% acrylic paint designed for exterior use. Acrylic paint is durable and long-lasting, making it an excellent choice for exterior walls exposed to harsh weather conditions. It also dries rapidly and is resistant to chipping, cracking, and fading.
5. Use the Right Tools and Techniques
When painting plaster and stucco walls, using the right tools and techniques is important to get the best results. It’s best to use a roller or a sprayer to apply the paint, and work in small sections to ensure the paint goes on evenly. Use a paintbrush to fill any areas the roller or sprayer missed. Be sure to apply at least two successive coats of paint. As always, allow the first coat to dry completely before applying the second.
Conclusion
Painting exterior plaster and stucco walls can be an excellent way to give your Bay Area home a fresh, updated look. Following these five tips, you can ensure that your exterior and stucco painting project goes smoothly and that you achieve the best possible results.
If you’re uncomfortable taking on this project, consider hiring a professional painter with experience working with these surfaces. With a little effort and the appropriate tools and techniques, you can transform the look of your home and increase its curb appeal.
Transform your home’s exterior with One Stop Plastering’s expert application of exterior plaster and stucco. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a beautiful and durable finish for your home.
