What paint should I use to paint stucco?
Stucco is porous and it expands and contracts with heat and cold, so it needs a coating that is flexible, waterproof against rain, and still breathable. A proven choice is Sherwin Williams Loxon XP Elastomeric. This coating forms a high build flexible film that stretches to bridge hairline cracks, shields against wind driven rain, and helps block water intrusion while allowing water vapor to escape. It resists alkali and efflorescence common on masonry, and it can be tinted to a wide range of colors from light neutrals to deeper accents so you are not limited to off white.
Prep is the key. Start with a careful wash or soft wash to remove dirt, mildew, and chalk. Repair cracks with an elastomeric patch and address any loose or hollow areas. If the surface is chalky or freshly cured, use the appropriate masonry primer from the Loxon system so the finish bonds evenly. New stucco should be allowed to cure and have its pH checked before coating unless the primer is rated for early application.
Most stucco looks best in a flat or low sheen because it hides surface variation and keeps glare down. Remember that elastomeric products bridge only hairline movement, not structural cracks, so repairs come first. With the right prep and a true elastomeric like Loxon XP you get richer color options, stronger protection against storms, and a longer lasting stucco finish.
