Surface Prep: Repairing
- Cracked or Peeling Paint
Remove any loose, peeling paint. Scrub all surfaces to remove dirt, grease, oil, ect. Rinse surface well and allow it to dry. Apply appropriate patching material to cracks, nail holes, or other surface imperfections, sand smooth, and remove sanding dust.
- Cracks in Stucco
Use a latex caulking compound and then paint with acrylic latex paint. For wider cracks, use an all-purpose filler such as premixed patching compound, according to label directions. For deep holes, build up the patch with several layers, allowing each to dry before applying the next. Backer rods are recommended for cracks deeper than 1/2”. Try to match the texture of the patch to the surrounding surface by touching it up with a float or a small brush.
- Efflorescence (mineral leaching) on Stucco or Masonry
You can remove the powder with a wire brush, but unless you stop the source, it will continue to develop. Efflorescence is caused by moisture that penetrates walls and other masonry surfaces, so the presence of efflorescence indicates that there’s a moisture problem and further damage may occur. Check for leaks or standing water and take measures to correct the cause of the leaching before cleaning and repainting.
- Holes and Cracks
Use your finger or a putty knife to fill nail holes or very small holes. When the filler is dry, sand smooth and spot-prime. Hairline cracks should be gouged out with a putty knife to about 1/8" wide. Then use acrylic latex caulk to fill. Allow the caulk to dry before painting or further cracking may occur as caulk dries and shrinks.
- Sags, Drips, and Runs
Sand to smooth sags, drips, or runs. Use a damp, lint-free cloth to remove sanding dust.
