How much paint?
Real coverage numbers from the paint makers, the coats you'll actually need, and a buying plan you can take to the store. Interior rooms or a stucco exterior.
Wall paint2 gallons
Coverage: Sherwin-Williams puts a gallon at about 350–400 sq ft; Behr rates its elastomeric masonry coating at 75–125 sq ft per gallon, two coats required. Doors count as 21 sq ft and windows as 15 sq ft. Rough or textured surfaces drink more. Buy the same product in one batch and mix (box) the cans so the color matches.
Before you paint stucco in Miami
From the manufacturer's directions for elastomeric masonry coating, the most common choice for Miami stucco.
- New stucco and masonry need 30 days to cure before painting.
- Pressure-wash off chalk and dirt; treat mildew stains first.
- Route out and patch cracks wider than 1/16 in with an elastomeric patch.
- Caulk around windows, doors and trim with acrylic caulk.
- Prime patched, chalky or bare areas before the topcoat.
- Paint when air and surface are between 50 and 90 °F, so early mornings in summer.
- No rain or heavy dew expected for 24 hours. Watch the afternoon storms in the rainy season.
- Two coats at the same spread rate; a third may be needed for full film thickness.
Source: Behr Premium Elastomeric Masonry, Stucco & Brick Paint, product directions. Follow the label of the product you buy.