[quote=svelte][quote=duncbdunc]
re stucco: I understand that you are not supposed to paint over stucco. If you want to refresh color you need to apply a new layer of stucco. Apparently stucco is supposed to breath or it will rot inside from water damage. Paint seals the stucco.
[/quote]
I’ve known many people who have had their stucco painted with no ill effects. One family has had their house 20 years now since it was painted without a problem inside or out. Maybe in moister climates it would be a problem (like Seattle) or maybe if you are just blocks from the ocean. Otherwise I think you’re fine.[/quote]
Stucco is not water-proof. It is not designed to be. Neither is standard paint. The water-proofing comes from the paper, when properly applied. Stucco assemblies with a color coat are not designed to be painted, however painting won’t damage the integrity of the assembly.
Stucco is often painted with elastomeric paint (including sometimes for new contruction), which is water resistent, but usually vapor permeable. (Most of the non-vapor permeable elastomerics are off the market, but there still are some available.) It can even be used to effectively fill small cracks. It’s important to follow manufacturers application instructions.
The rotting (or more commonly, mold) is a problem when there is moisture in the studs from improper water-proofing. It is possible that a combination of improper waterproofing, along with bad timing of the application of a non-vapor permeable coating can lead to mold. Mold needs moisture and organic material to grow. If the assembly is water-proof and it can “breath” (vapor permeable) any moisture will evaporate, and there won’t be mold damage.
