Our 1963 Toronto semi has the classic combination: brick on the front, stucco on the sides and back. Repainted the stucco and all trim last summer. Full breakdown.
The Condition Before
Stucco: last painted approximately 2008 (16 years prior). Significant chalking - could rub white off on fingers. Small hairline cracks throughout. Two larger cracks (1/4"+) at window corners.
Trim: peeling at soffit on north side, likely moisture infiltration from a gutter issue we had fixed the previous year.
Contractor Selection
Got 4 quotes ranging from $4,200 to $7,800. Chose the $5,900 quote - not the cheapest, but they were the only ones who specifically mentioned stucco patching as part of their scope.
Work Done
Week 1 prep:
- Pressure washed all stucco surfaces (50-foot sides + back)
- Scraped and sanded all peeling trim
- Applied elastomeric stucco patch to all cracks, feathered smooth
- Replaced two sections of rotted fascia
- Caulked all window perimeters and trim joints
Week 1-2 painting:
- Prime coat on all patched areas and bare wood
- 2 coats Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior on stucco (Regal Select used on trim)
- Colour: stucco in Revere Pewter (BM HC-172), trim in Chantilly Lace white
Total Cost
Painting: $5,900
Fascia replacement (not in original scope): $380
Total: $6,280
Two Years Later
No peeling, no cracking at repaired areas, still looks fresh. The elastomeric patch on the stucco cracks has held perfectly.
What I Would Do Differently
Nothing major. The prep week was worth every dollar - the houses nearby that were painted the same summer and skipped prep are already showing hairline cracking through the paint at the same spots.
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