Complete Guide to Elastomeric Paint and Coatings for Exterior Surfaces

What Is Elastomeric Paint and How Does It Work?

Ever watched your freshly painted stucco develop hairline cracks within months, despite using “high-quality” paint? You’re not alone. Many homeowners spend thousands on exterior painting only to see water stains and peeling paint return faster than expected.

Regular house paint can’t handle the constant expansion and contraction from temperature changes, especially on stucco and masonry. Elastomeric paint solves this with a thick, flexible membrane that moves with your building, preventing the cracking and water penetration that destroys regular paint jobs.

Key Takeaways

• Elastomeric paint creates a highly effective coating that can bridge small gaps and hairline cracks in stucco and masonry.
• This specialized paint provides long lasting protection for 10-15 years, making it suitable for harsh weather conditions.
• Professional application by OnDemand Painters ensures proper thickness and surface preparation for optimal results.
• The flexible coating works on concrete, brick, metal, wood, EIFS, and Hardie Siding surfaces.
• Light-colored elastomeric coatings reduce cooling costs by reflecting heat away from buildings.
• Water-based formulations offer easy cleanup while solvent-based versions resist standing water better.

Understanding Elastomeric Coatings for Different Surfaces

Here’s what makes this coating special – it contains polymers that allow it to expand and contract without cracking. While regular paint creates a 2-3 mil coating, elastomeric paint forms a 10-20 mil layer with superior waterproofing properties.

The coating starts in liquid form but dries into a rubber-like membrane that stretches up to 300%. Think of it like a protective skin that moves with your building as temperature changes occur.

Elastomeric coatings work well on stucco, concrete, masonry, metal, wood, and brick surfaces, though each surface requires specific preparation steps to achieve the best results.

EIFS systems particularly benefit from elastomeric coatings because of their flexibility, while Hardie Siding also works well with elastomeric paint when properly prepared.

The key is making sure surfaces are clean and free from loose paint or debris before application, and metal surfaces often require special primers to prevent corrosion.

Best Surfaces for Elastomeric Paint

Stucco and masonry surfaces are ideal candidates for elastomeric paint since these materials develop hairline cracks over time. The thick coating fills these cracks and prevents water penetration.

Concrete and brick applications work well because these materials absorb moisture, while metal roof coating applications protect against rust and corrosion.

Wood siding protection requires careful surface preparation, and EIFS system compatibility depends on proper preparation and primer selection.

How Elastomeric Paint Bridges Hairline Cracks

Hairline cracks form in building materials as they age and settle, while temperature changes cause materials to expand and contract at different rates.

Bridge hairline cracks by filling them with thick elastomeric coating. The coating flows into crack openings and seals them completely, creating a waterproof seal that prevents moisture damage.

The waterproofing properties depend on proper thickness since the coating must be thick enough to span crack openings without breaking.

Small Cracks vs. Structural Issues

Small cracks under 1/16 inch wide are perfect candidates for elastomeric paint since the coating can bridge these cracks and prevent them from growing larger.

Larger cracks are a different story though – proper preparation is needed for structural issues, as cracks wider than 1/16 inch need repair work before any coating application.

Types of Elastomeric Coatings

Water-based elastomeric coatings offer easy cleanup and low odor, and these coatings work well on surfaces that drain properly.

Solvent-based formulations provide better resistance to standing water while curing faster and working better in humid conditions.

You’ll find different coating options including acrylic, polyurethane, and silicone formulations, though the choice depends on your specific application and environmental conditions.

Ask any contractor and they’ll tell you they prefer water-based elastomeric coatings for residential jobs because cleanup is easier, but when dealing with flat roofs that see standing water, they’ll switch to solvent-based every time.

Coating Options for Different Materials

Wood surfaces work best with breathable elastomeric coatings since these coatings allow moisture vapor to escape while preventing liquid water penetration.

Metal-specific formulations include corrosion inhibitors, while masonry and concrete applications benefit from high-build coatings.

Benefits of Elastomeric Paint for Harsh Weather Conditions

Here’s something most people don’t think about – UV degradation resistance protects surfaces from sun damage since the coating contains UV stabilizers that prevent breakdown from sunlight exposure.

Heavy rainfall protection comes from the waterproof barrier created by the coating, as the thick membrane prevents water penetration while still allowing the surface to breathe.

The expand and contract capabilities allow the coating to move with your building’s natural movement, and this flexibility accommodates temperature changes without cracking.

Mold growth prevention results from the coating’s resistance to moisture, while the impressive durability comes from that thick, flexible membrane that can last 10-15 years.

Here’s where it gets interesting for your wallet – homeowners regularly see cooling bill reductions of 15-20% by switching to light-colored elastomeric coating on exterior walls and flat roofs. One Arizona homeowner told us his attic went from unbearably hot to actually comfortable during summer afternoons.

Energy Efficiency and Building’s Appearance

Heat reflection properties help reduce cooling costs in hot climates, as light-colored elastomeric coatings reflect solar heat away from the building.

Color retention over time maintains the building’s appearance, while the thick coating also hides surface imperfections and creates an attractive appearance.

Application Process and Professional Requirements

Proper preparation steps are crucial for coating success since surfaces must be clean, dry, and free from loose material. Power washing removes dirt and chalk buildup.

Thickness application standards require careful attention to coverage rates, as most coatings need 20+ mils of dry film thickness for proper performance.

Equipment needs include airless sprayers for best results, and companies like OnDemand Painters have the expertise to deliver quality results that last.

Tools and Equipment for Elastomeric Coating

Spray application methods provide the most efficient coverage since airless sprayers can handle the thick consistency of elastomeric coatings.

Roller techniques work for smaller areas or touch-up work, and coverage rates typically range from 100-150 square feet per gallon – that’s about half what you’d get with regular paint, so plan accordingly.

Disadvantages and Considerations

Let’s be honest about the downsides – higher cost compared to regular paint will affect your project budget since elastomeric coatings cost 50-100% more than standard paint. The coverage rate is also lower, requiring more gallons per project.

You’ll need to stay on top of maintenance requirements including regular cleaning and inspection, while touch ups may be needed in high-wear areas after 10-15 years.

There are color limitations for darker shades in hot climates since dark colors absorb more heat and may cause coating stress – something to keep in mind if you’re set on a specific color.

When to Choose Elastomeric Paint vs Regular Paint

Moisture-prone areas benefit most from elastomeric coatings since buildings exposed to heavy rainfall or high humidity really need that extra protection.

Here’s how to think about the budget – consider both initial cost and long-term value, as elastomeric coatings cost more upfront but last much longer. The long run cost may actually be lower due to extended service life.

The best applications include stucco homes, commercial buildings, and any structures dealing with ongoing crack problems.

Maintenance and Longevity of Elastomeric Coatings

Expected lifespan ranges from 10-15 years with proper care, though quality coatings in good conditions can last even longer.

Routine cleaning requirements include annual washing to remove dirt and mildew, while regular inspection helps identify problems before they cause water damage.

Experienced professionals should handle major maintenance and repairs since professional maintenance extends coating life and protects the investment.

Conclusion

Elastomeric paint offers superior protection for exterior surfaces compared to regular paint, as the thick, flexible coating bridges hairline cracks and provides excellent waterproofing properties. While the upfront cost is higher, the impressive durability makes it a smart investment for the right applications.

Don’t worry about getting it right – success with elastomeric coatings depends on proper surface preparation and application techniques, which is why professional installation takes the guesswork out of the process and ensures the coating performs as designed for many years. For the best results, work with experienced professionals like OnDemand Painters who understand these specialized coating systems and can deliver the quality results your project deserves.

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