Stucco is an excellent choice for people looking for durable and low maintenance exterior finishes. These are just two of the many benefits which a stucco finish can bring to your house alongside its fire-resistant qualities and the fact it will add value to your property.
Generally, stucco can last between 60 and 80 years if you keep on top of any maintenance as it arises. It is important to deal with any cracks or structural damage as soon as possible, and you will also have to think about touching up the paint every five years or so. When that time arises, it is useful to know what is the better option for stucco – painting or color coating.
The Pros and Cons of Painting Stucco
The major advantage of using paint is that it can protect the surface against moisture, which can lead to cracks and structural damage. In most cases, painting the exterior surfaces is cheaper than color coating, especially if you do the job yourself.
The elastomeric paint complements the robust nature of the stucco by guarding against dirt and other pollutants, which can stain and damage the stucco.
Before you get out the paintbrushes, bear in mind that it can be a big job as you will need to do some serious prep work before applying the coat. You will need to strip the existing layer, clean the surface, prime it, and give the stucco time to cure. All of which can mean a lot of time and effort, which may be too much for some DIY enthusiasts.
The Pros and Cons ofColor Coating
Color coating offers one significant advantage over painting – it lasts much longer, typically 15 years. For people who are not excited about regular painting jobs, this is an ideal option. It can also be applied much sooner than paint, meaning the surfaces aren’t left exposed to the elements as long.
As the coating penetrates the surface layers, any wear and tear will be less visible than paint. However, color coating is more porous, so it is possible that water will get into the stucco causing damage below the surface. This also means that color coating stains more easily which means that you will have to repaint any affected areas.
What Is the Best Choice for Me
As you can see from the above, there are pros and cons for both options, so the best choice for you would depend on several factors. The location of your house regarding weather patterns and proximity to trees and other dirt sources will have a significant impact on the decision.
The condition of the existing surfaces and the age of the house may play a role in how big the job is and what is the best choice.
The best thing to do initially is to call in the experts to take a look at the existing surfaces and surrounding area. From there, they will be able to advise you on the best way to proceed.