It may not stop traffic, but a fresh coat of paint can do wonders to transform a house finished in stucco. On a porous substance like stucco, the paint to use is acrylic, which will allow the surface to breathe so moisture doesn’t get trapped and cause cracking and peeling. A paint facelift has a unifying effect that can transform an ordinary house while protecting its surface.
A painting contractor will charge $600 to prepare and paint a 1,000 square-foot house with two coats of an acrylic paint designed for stucco surfaces, such as Drylock. You can buy the materials for $130 and do it yourself and save 78 percent.
For the best results, schedule the job so you’re not working in direct sunlight. Begin by cleaning the stucco with a mild wash down using a power washer and siding cleaner to remove dirt and mildew. Don’t blast it with high pressure; give the textured surface a gentle cleaning. When the stucco is dry, patch any holes or cracks with a stucco mix or acrylic latex caulk designed to seal the openings. Then prime the patched areas and let them dry before painting. Apply the paint by spraying it or using a good quality bristle brush or thick nap masonry roller.
To find more DIY project costs, and to post comments and questions, visit
and
on smartphones.
Pro Cost — DIY Cost — Pro time — DIY Time — DIY Savings — Percent Saved
$600 — $130 — 18.9 — 16.5 — $470 — 78 Percent