Expert Stucco Repair for Arizona Homes
Arizona's temperature swings cause stucco to expand and contract, leading to cracks and damage over time. Our stucco repair service addresses these issues before painting, ensuring a smooth, long-lasting finish. We expertly match existing textures and seal all repairs to prevent water intrusion.
What's Included
Our Stucco Process
A straightforward approach to delivering quality results
Damage Assessment
We inspect your exterior to identify all cracks, holes, and damage requiring repair.
Crack Preparation
Cracks are cleaned out, widened if needed, and prepared for proper patching.
Expert Patching
We apply stucco repair compound in layers, matching the thickness of surrounding areas.
Texture Matching
Once cured, we apply matching texture so repairs blend invisibly with existing stucco.
Professional Stucco Repair for Phoenix Homes
Stucco is the most common exterior material on Arizona homes—and Arizona’s climate is one of the hardest on stucco anywhere in the country. The constant cycle of extreme heat during the day and cooler nights causes stucco to expand and contract, eventually leading to cracks that worsen over time.
At John Claude Painting, stucco repair isn’t an afterthought—it’s a critical part of our exterior painting process.
Why Stucco Cracks in Arizona
Understanding why stucco cracks in Arizona heat helps you appreciate the importance of proper repair:
Temperature Cycling
Phoenix can see 30-40 degree temperature swings in a single day. Stucco expands in heat and contracts when it cools. This constant movement creates stress cracks, especially at corners and around windows.
Home Settlement
As homes settle, the slight foundation movement stresses the stucco shell. Settlement cracks typically appear at corners, above doors, and around window frames.
Impact Damage
Hail, thrown rocks, bumped ladders, and everyday accidents chip and crack stucco. These small damages become larger problems if not addressed.
Age & UV Degradation
Older stucco becomes brittle from years of UV exposure. The surface can crumble, allowing water intrusion.
Why Repair Before Painting?
Painting over damaged stucco is a waste of money. Here’s why:
- Cracks telegraph through paint - Within months, underlying cracks reappear in fresh paint
- Water intrusion continues - Paint doesn’t seal cracks; water still penetrates to your structure
- Paint adheres poorly - Damaged, chalky stucco provides a weak substrate for new paint
- Problems accelerate - Moisture trapped behind paint causes faster deterioration
Our Stucco Repair Process
1. Comprehensive Inspection
We examine your entire exterior, documenting every crack, chip, and damaged area. Nothing gets missed.
2. Crack Preparation
Small cracks are cleaned and widened slightly to accept repair material. Loose or crumbling stucco is removed back to solid substrate.
3. Proper Patching
We use professional stucco repair compounds specifically formulated for Arizona conditions. Patches are built up in layers to proper thickness.
4. Curing Time
Stucco repairs must cure 24-48 hours before painting. Rushing this step leads to paint failure. We build adequate curing time into our project schedules.
5. Texture Matching
This is where expertise matters most. We match your existing stucco texture—whether it’s smooth, sand finish, or heavy lace—so repairs blend invisibly.
Common Stucco Textures We Match
- Smooth/Fine Sand - Subtle texture common on newer homes
- Medium Sand - Classic Arizona stucco finish
- Knockdown - Flattened peaks creating a dappled effect
- Skip Trowel - Curved, organic patterns
- Dash/Roughcast - Heavy texture common on older homes
- Lace/Monterey - Deep, irregular patterns
When to Address Stucco Damage
Don’t wait until you’re ready to paint. Signs you need stucco repair now:
- Visible cracks - Any crack is a pathway for water
- Spalling or crumbling - Surface deterioration indicates deeper problems
- Stains below cracks - Water is already getting through
- Soft spots - Indicate moisture damage to underlying structure
- Cracks around windows/doors - These widen quickly without repair
Stucco Repair Pricing
Minor crack repairs are typically included with exterior painting projects. For homes with extensive damage, we’ll provide a separate line item in your estimate so you understand all costs before we begin.
Get Your Free Stucco Assessment
Worried about your stucco? Contact us for a free inspection. We’ll document the condition of your exterior and provide honest recommendations—whether you need immediate repair, should plan for painting soon, or can safely wait.
Stucco Gallery
See examples of our work throughout the Phoenix Valley
Before & After Transformations
See the dramatic difference professional painting makes
Before
After
All cracks repaired and texture-matched before painting
Before
After
Corner rebuilt and texture-matched perfectly
What Our Customers Say
Real reviews from homeowners across the Phoenix Valley
"Incredible attention to detail. They painted our entire exterior in Scottsdale and the prep work they did was far superior to anyone else we've hired."
"We had our dark kitchen cabinets refinished to a bright white. They look brand new! Saved us thousands over a full remodel. Highly recommend John's team."
"Professional from start to finish. They showed up on time, kept the site clean, and the final walk-through ensured everything was perfect."
Stucco FAQs
Common questions about our services
Arizona's extreme temperature swings cause stucco to expand and contract repeatedly. Over time, this movement creates stress cracks. Settlement of the home's foundation, impact damage, and age also contribute to stucco deterioration.
Painting over cracks is only a temporary fix. The cracks will telegraph through the new paint within months. Proper repair before painting ensures a smooth, long-lasting finish and prevents water from seeping into your walls.
Stucco repairs need 24-48 hours to cure before painting, depending on the repair size and Arizona humidity levels. We factor this into our project timeline to ensure proper adhesion.
Minor crack repairs are typically included in our exterior painting quotes. Extensive damage or large repair areas may be quoted separately. We'll assess during your free estimate and explain all costs upfront.
Related Services
Other services that might interest you
Cabinet Painting & Refinishing
Convert outdated wood cabinets to modern factory-style finishes using specialized spray techniques.
Commercial Painting
Professional interior and exterior painting services for offices, retail spaces, HOAs, and multi-family properties.
Exterior Painting
Specialized exterior painting using UV-resistant, heat-tolerant paints designed to protect your home from the harsh Arizona sun.
Ready for Professional Stucco?
Get a free, no-obligation estimate for your project. Same-day appointments available.
Same-day estimates available