What NOT To Do When Painting Stucco

Peak Pro Painting • September 25, 2017

Stucco projects are highly specialized and therefore, have special needs. When painting stucco, it is important to pick the right paint finish for the job. In this blog Peak Pro will let you in on the biggest mistake you can make when painting stucco homes.

 

Why you should never use a satin or high gloss paint:

High gloss paints are great for high traffic areas that need to withstand cleaning products and normal wear and tear. Although it might sound tempting that you could cover your exterior stucco home in gloss paint and never worry about difficult cleaning again. Read this article to understand the proper methods of cleaning stucco(it can be pretty tricky). However, high gloss paint doesn’t have the same efficacy on stucco, and Peak Pro would NOT recommend using gloss paints on stucco exteriors. Painting stucco with high gloss paint is the biggest mistake you can make when painting stucco! High gloss paints highlights irregularities, this is the last thing that you would want when it comes to stucco. Stucco looks best with a matte paint or semi-gloss paint to mask imperfections.

 

Why Peak Pro uses a flat paint finish when painting stucco

Although options such as a satin finish may seem attractive, it is important to be aware of a phenomenon called shadowing. Shadowing occurs on stucco when a glossier finish is applied on a porous stucco surface and the reflection of light creates the illusion of dark inconsistencies on the paint surface. To avoid this, it is best to use a flat finish paint. A flat finish has significantly less sheen, therefore reducing the reflection of light on the paint and therefore the shadowing. This is just another example of knowing your project and knowing your product.

 

Chose the right type of paint

It is important to avoid all oil-based paints when painting stucco exteriors. Oil paints do not breathe like water-based coatings. Moisture within your home should be able to evaporate through the exterior walls and oil based paints will hinder this process, resulting in bubbling and peeling paint.

If you have a stucco home but are tackling this job yourself, Peak Pro has the expertise to help you power wash the exterior of your home and give you a fresh coat of paint. The best Denver commercial painting company and our professional team of painters for homes will put a fresh coat of paint on your home! Request a quote  here  for exterior/interior painting Denver or Denver commercial/residential painting. Our painters for home exteriors will give your home a new look with fastest and cheapest estimate you can find! Also serving Austin Texas!

Ready to work with Peak Pro Painting?

Let's connect! We’re here to help.

Send us a message and we’ll be in touch. 

Or give us a call today at 720-399-7325

Agency Contact Form

More Painting Tips, Hacks and Suggestions

By Peak Pro Painting July 6, 2026
Explore the ins and outs of exterior latex paint. Discover common challenges homeowners face, and learn how Peak Pro Painting can ensure your home looks stunning and stands up to the elements.
By Peak Pro Painting July 6, 2026
Homeowners often wonder about the best time to repaint their homes to maintain aesthetic appeal and protection. Discover the factors influencing repainting frequency and how Peak Pro Painting can assist in the process.
By Peak Pro Painting July 6, 2026
Learn how to paint your patio concrete with our step-by-step guide. Contact Peak Pro Painting for expert help in enhancing your outdoor space.
By Peak Pro Painting July 6, 2026
Explore cabinet painting vs replacement for your home. Get expert advice from Peak Pro Painting to make the best choice today!
By Peak Pro Painting July 6, 2026
Learn how to paint brick for beauty & durability. Get expert tips from Peak Pro Painting for your next project!
By Peak Pro Painting July 6, 2026
Get expert tips on choosing the perfect white exterior paint for your home. Contact Peak Pro Painting for professional guidance today!
By Peak Pro Painting July 6, 2026
Get expert tips for interior & exterior painting. Trust Peak Pro Painting for quality results. Contact us for your home transformation!
By Peak Pro Painting July 6, 2026
Enhance your outdoor space with our patio painting guide. Get expert tips from Peak Pro Painting for a stunning finish.
By Peak Pro Painting July 6, 2026
Master pergola staining with expert tips on stain types & application. Contact Peak Pro Painting for professional help in transforming your outdoor space.
By Peak Pro Painting July 6, 2026
Learn the 7 signs your home needs painting. Contact Peak Pro Painting for expert services in the Denver Metro Area today!