How long to paint stucco

Hi,

I just stucco placed on my 20 year old block home that was originally painted, the stucco was also done over a gable with wire lath. A couple of questions:

1. Should I waterproof the stucco before priming? The original block is painted behind the stucco.

2. How long should the stucco cure before waterproofing or priming?

Thanks

 

I have heard different answers from different paint manufactures, anywhere from 3-30 days. It has been my experience that 3 days is plenty as long providing you use quality paint. 1 coat of cheap paint seems to fail no matter how long you let the stucco cure. I have primed and painted 2 day old stucco with quality materials and have it last well.

Don't waterproof the stucco. It may cause the paint not to bond. Use a good masonary primer. Most any quality latex will work good for a top coat. If waterproofing is a concern you can top coat with elastromeric paint [type of paint] It seals with an elastic type of coating. All the brands that I have used have held up well.

 

Any coating on stucco must be able to breathe, so be careful of any oil based coatings. Use products designed for stucco and masonry.

Dick