Homeowners in South Florida frequently choose stucco as their home exterior due to its fresh, timeless appearance. However, if this material is left for too long without a fresh coat of paint or stucco sealer, it may become worn down. In the case of unpainted stucco, a clear stucco sealer should be applied at least once every ten years. This is, however, dependent on the climate in which you live, among other factors.
UCI Paints is the leading manufacturer of paints and stucco sealers in South Florida. Our products will keep your home looking pristine for years to come. All you need to know is how often to apply them. Continue reading to find out if now is the time to apply a fresh coat of sealer to your stucco surfaces.
Without a layer of sealer to protect your stucco against the elements, the surface may begin to absorb water. This could wreak havoc on the structural integrity of your home if it is left unprotected for an extended period of time. Additionally, you may start to notice a buildup of mold on the exterior or interior of your house.
One of the first signs of water damage is the presence of salt. Salt will appear on the stucco surface in powder form once moisture evaporates in the heat. If you notice white marks, then you are long overdue for a new coat of stucco sealer. Make sure you have a professional assess the water damage prior to adding new sealer.
While stucco home exteriors come with many benefits, these types of surfaces often struggle to withstand extreme humidity. As a result, the material may expand and crack in high temperatures, allowing moisture to enter your home, and compromise the existing layer of stucco sealer. For this reason, homeowners residing in humid regions like Fort Lauderdale, FL should be proactive by applying a fresh coat of clear stucco sealer to their home once every five years.
Paints and sealers vary in quality and ability to withstand the elements depending on the manufacturer, ingredients, and intended use. Depending on the specific products that were previously used on your home exterior, you may need to apply a new layer of stucco sealer much sooner than expected.
For example, some homeowners make the mistake of using leftover indoor paint as an inexpensive way to coat the exterior of their home. Paint intended for indoor use will however, have a much shorter lifespan than long-lasting products like our clear stucco sealer at UCI Paints, which is designed to withstand the adverse weather conditions in South Florida. If you have recently moved into a new home, you may want to ask the previous owners when the stucco surfaces were last maintained, and which products were used. If you are not able to retrieve this important information regarding your stucco surfaces, we recommend hiring a professional to perform a paint inspection.
In addition to using premium products, hiring a top-rated paint contractor is another way to ensure your stucco has the protection it needs for as long as possible. A professional South Florida painter will be able to recommend the best products and ensure the stucco surface is in good condition prior to coating it with a clear seal. Finally, painting contractors will make sure that every inch of your home is covered, so that you do not wind up with water damage or other problems. Contact us today to learn more about what we offer!