As our professional painters at Evercrest Painting are aware, no two homes in and around Colorado Springs are exactly alike. That’s especially true when it comes to residential exterior surfaces. Whether your home features a classic stucco exterior or durable exterior siding, selecting the right paint (and the right painters!) is key to achieving a long-lasting, attractive finish. In this guide, we’ll break down the unique challenges and best practices for painting stucco vs. siding to help you make the most informed decision for your home.
Understanding the Differences
Stucco is a cement-based material known for its textured look and excellent insulation. It’s especially popular in dry, high-elevation climates like Colorado Springs or in desert settings which are also dry in nature.
Siding, on the other hand, can be made of vinyl, fiber cement, wood, or aluminum. Siding offers a smooth or semi-textured finish, depending on the material used.
Both stucco and siding require specific paint types and preparation steps to ensure adhesion, weather resistance, and ultimately, visual appeal and beauty.
Painting Stucco: What You Need to Know
Unlike most other types of exterior materials, stucco breathes—it absorbs and releases moisture. That means your paint choice needs to accommodate this natural process.
Best Practices:
- Use Paints like Elastomeric or Masonry Paints: These flexible coatings bridge hairline cracks and allow moisture vapor to escape.
- Surface Prep for Stucco is Crucial: Pressure washing and patching damaged stucco ensure paint adheres properly.
- Choose Matte or Flat Finishes for Stucco: These finishes enhance the natural look of stucco and hide imperfections better.
Pros of Painting Stucco:
- Great for energy efficiency when properly sealed
- Offers excellent soundproofing
- Textured look adds character to a home
Challenges:
- Susceptible to cracking without proper maintenance
Requires specific paints that can expand and contract with the material
Painting Siding: What You Need to Know
Painting non-stucco siding is usually more straightforward than stucco but still requires careful planning depending on the siding material. Stucco painting.
Best Practices:
- Use Acrylic Latex Paints: These offer durability and flexibility, especially for fiber cement, wood, or aluminum siding.
- For Vinyl Siding: Choose vinyl-safe paints that are lighter than the original color to prevent warping.
- Priming May Be Needed: Especially for older wood siding or chalky surfaces.
Pros of Painting Siding:
- Easier to clean and maintain than stucco
- Available in various materials and styles
- A smooth finish for a modern look
Challenges:
- May peel or warp if painted incorrectly
Needs more frequent repainting, depending on material
How Colorado Springs’ Climate Affects Your Exterior Paint
At over 6,000 feet in elevation, Colorado Springs surfaces face increased UV exposure, dry air, and wide temperature swings between day and night. These climate-based factors demand premium-quality paints and professional techniques to ensure your paint job lasts.
At Evercrest Painting, we only use exterior paint brands that are formulated for high-altitude climates. Whether your home is finished in stucco or siding, we make sure the paint stands up to everything from intense summer sun to winter’s freeze-thaw cycles.
Which is Easier to Maintain?
Stucco often requires more upfront prep, but when painted properly, it can go 10–15 years without needing more than a touch-up. Siding, depending on the material, may need repainting every 5–10 years.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Feature | Stucco | Siding |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | High | Moderate to High |
| Maintenance | Medium | Low to Medium |
| Paint Lifespan | 10-15 years | 5-10 years |
| Finish Options | Limited | Wide variety |
When to Call a Professional Painter
If your stucco is showing signs of cracking or your siding is peeling or faded, it’s time to bring in the pros. At Evercrest Painting, we provide:
- In-depth, free exterior assessments
- Free expert recommendations based on your home’s materials and condition
- Top-tier paint and application techniques tailored to each surface
- On-time, respectful service from insured painters with over 10 years of experience in the community in and around Colorado Springs
We’ve painted homes across Colorado Springs, from stucco ranch-style homes to fiber cement-sided homes and everything in between!
Final Thoughts: It’s Not Just About the Paint—It’s About the Prep
The secret to a flawless exterior paint job—whether on stucco or siding—isn’t just the paint itself. It’s the prep work. That’s where Evercrest Painting excels. We take the time to patch, caulk, prime, and properly seal every surface so the paint can do its job—look great and last for years. Stucco painting is one of our specialties.
Get Expert Help from Evercrest Painting with Your Stucco or Siding Painting Project
Whether you’re looking to modernize your stucco home with a new earthy tone or freshen up your siding with a bold, contemporary color, Evercrest Painting is here to help. Our team has the experience, tools, and knowledge to tackle any exterior surface and deliver stunning, lasting results.
Contact Evercrest Painting today for a free estimate and let us help you protect and beautify your home the right way.
Further Reading:
- Colorado State University Extension – Home Maintenance and Weather
- U.S. Department of Energy – Exterior Wall Materials and Paint
Related blog topics you may be interested in:
A Fresh, Modern Update: The Power of a Cohesive Interior Repaint
The Importance of Professional Commercial Interior Painting for Colorado Springs Businesses
Christmas in July? 7 Times of Year You Never Thought to Book a Painting Project (But Should)
When is the Right Time to Paint My Home Interior
Top Color Trends for Commercial Interiors in Colorado Springs