Introduction:
Stucco is the most common exterior finish for homes in Las Vegas, prized for its durability and classic desert look. However, the constant exposure to intense sun and temperature fluctuations can lead to hairline cracks and damage. Many homeowners think a fresh coat of paint is all that’s needed to cover these flaws, but that’s a critical mistake. Here’s why professional stucco repair is the most important step before painting.
What Causes Stucco to Crack?
In Las Vegas, stucco damage is typically caused by:
- Thermal Expansion and Contraction: The dramatic temperature swings from day to night cause the material to expand and contract, leading to stress cracks.
- Foundation Settling: Minor shifts in your home’s foundation can create larger, more structural cracks.
- Moisture Intrusion: While rare in our dry climate, rain from monsoon storms can seep into tiny cracks, weakening the stucco from within.
Why Painting Over Cracks Doesn’t Work
Simply painting over cracks is a temporary fix at best. Here’s what happens:
- Cracks Reappear: Paint is a liquid coating; it is not a structural filler. The underlying crack will almost always reappear, sometimes within just a few months.
- Moisture Gets Trapped: Painting over a crack can seal moisture inside the wall, leading to bigger problems like bubbling paint, water damage, and even mold.
- It Wastes Your Investment: An exterior paint job is a significant investment. Without proper prep, you’ll be paying to have it redone much sooner than expected.
The Professional Stucco Repair Process
At Eclipse Painting, our preparation process is meticulous because we know it’s the key to a lasting finish. Here’s how we handle stucco repair before a single drop of paint is applied:
- Inspection: We identify all areas of damage, from tiny hairline cracks to larger chips.
- Cleaning: The surface is thoroughly power washed to remove dirt and debris.
- Repair: We use high-quality elastomeric patching compounds that are specifically designed for stucco. This material is flexible, allowing it to move with the house and prevent the crack from returning.
- Priming: Repaired areas are primed to ensure the new paint absorbs evenly for a uniform finish.
Conclusion
A beautiful exterior paint job begins with a solid foundation. By investing in professional stucco repair before painting, you are not just improving your home’s appearance—you are protecting its structural integrity and ensuring your paint job lasts for years to come.
Have stucco cracks on your home? Contact Eclipse Painting for a free estimate that includes expert prep and repair!