Painting Brick, Stucco, and Wood: What Works Best in Houston Homes

If you live in Houston, you know that the homes in the area come in many different styles, from classic brick to concrete and stone with traditional wood siding. The homes definitely have a ton of charm and character, however with the Texas humidity and climate, painting these types of materials requires more than just paint and a brush. The right type of preparation and application, combined with paint selection ensures that your home looks great and is also protected from the elements that can cause wear and tear.

Understanding Houston’s Climate Challenges

Houston and the surrounding area is impacting by climate that stretches from intense heat to high humidity and rainfall. Because of this, exterior paint can be constantly under a level of stress and can peel, fade or blister quickly. Mold and mildew can even grow if surfaces are not prepared properly and effective sealing isn’t completed.
Texas homeowners should consider the building materials of their home when they are ready for exterior painting services. Brick, stucco and wood all react differently to moisture and changes to temperature. That makes it essential to choose the right approach in order to get great results that are equally long-lasting.

Best Practices for Painting Brick, Stucco, and Wood

If you were to consider the “dos” and “don’ts” of painting materials like brick, stucco or wood in Texas, there are a few best practices to consider.

1. Plan the time: choose a time of the year that has lower humidity and mild temperatures
2. Prepare thoroughly: make sure to properly prep the area, whether that is power washing, patching cracks or removing loose materials and efflorescence
3. Cure: any new stucco, concrete or masonry requires the right amount of time to settle and cure before applying any finishing coats
4. Prime the surface: use the right primers that bond and help with adhesion as well as sealing
5. Use the right coatings: it’s important to use 100% acrylic, elastomeric paints that work with Texas elements
6. Inspect and maintain: watch the details like the joints, corners and flashings and make sure they are well treated. Make the small repairs to prevent later failures

Exterior Brick Painting

Ever notice paint bubbling on brick after a rainy season? Brick is essentially a porous material and will absorb moisture. Because the climate in Texas is humid, that moisture can get trapped between paint layers and lead to bubbling and peeling.

What Works Best

Brick must be thoroughly cleaned with a power washer to remove dirt and mildew. Any cracks should be filled with masonry caulk before applying a breathable masonry primer. Paints designed specifically for brick or masonry allow trapped moisture to escape, protecting both the look and structure of the home.

What to Avoid

Avoid non-breathable coatings that will completely seal the brick and trap moisture. According to The Brick Industry Association, trapped moisture equals deterioration. Maintain weep holes, flashing and cracks that can impact even the best paint job. Also ensure that appropriate curing or drying has occurred before applying coating.

Exterior Stucco Painting

Just like brick, stucco is also porous and is very vulnerable to the heat and humid climate. Since stucco is already a mortar-based finish, it is often more forgiving than brick and you can get good durability in the Houston climate with this type of building material.

What Works Best

Make sure to allow time for curing before applying any finishing coats. Thorough prep is a must, including power washing. Inspect for cracks and properly repair by patching and skimming as needed. Elastomeric paints are flexible and great for stucco, as well as high-build 100% acrylic coatings. These types of paints are designed for stucco and can stretch and bridge hairline cracks as well as resist water intrusion.

Also make sure to prime with a high-quality product, especially over any areas that have been patched. A professional will know proper techniques on how to apply paint to stucco to get the best coverage. If you are curious about how often you should repaint stucco in Texas, the average timeframe is between 5 to 10 years depending on the quality of the paint and the overall maintenance of the home.

What to Avoid

Again, just like brick you want to avoid a non-breathable coating that can trap moisture and lead to bubbling. You want to avoid painting too soon or painting in extreme weather, especially if rain is expected to fall. Avoid skipping the prep work or ignoring any windows, penetrations or joints that can be common leak paths.

Exterior Wood Painting

Wood siding brings warmth and character to many Houston homes. But because wood expands and contracts significantly with changes in humidity, it also presents a unique set of challenges and requires the most maintenance.

What Works Best

With painting any exterior wood surfaces in Texas, the proper prep work is a non-negotiable. Before painting, wood should be sanded, cleaned, and primed with an oil-based or stain-blocking primer. Special attention must be given to sealing gaps and joints to prevent water infiltration. Using durable, exterior-grade paints such as 100% acrylic latex paints, that help resist UV and Houston’s harsh climate while maintaining its curb appeal.

What to Avoid

Do not paint on damp wood or wood that has not been properly cured. Use a moisture meter to check the dryness because any trapped moisture will cause issues like blistering or peeling and even mildew. Avoid skipping primers and using cheap paint – lower quality paint types cannot resist the UV impact of Texas heat along with climate swings. Also, if paint dries too fast it can cause cracking, so it is important to consider the timing when painting and avoid painting in extreme heat and direct sun.

Choosing the Right Paint for Long-Lasting Results

We’ve talked a little about the right paints already, but let’s make sure to cover paint types in more detail, because not all paints are created equal.

• 100% Acrylic Exterior Paint – flexible, durable, and UV resistant
• UV/Fade Resistance – protects color from intense Texas sun
• Mildew/Algae Resistance – critical for Houston’s humidity
• Moisture Resistance + Breathability – repels rain but allows vapor to escape
• High Pigment & Solids Content – better coverage, opacity, and durability
• Strong Adhesion/Bonding – use with appropriate primers for each surface
• Long Warranties – often reflects better quality (10–20+ years)

What Are Some Product Options That Work Best For Exterior Painting?

Wondering what is the best paint for exterior brick in Houston? Homeowners should look for paints labeled as 100% acrylic latex, as these offer superior adhesion, flexibility, and resistance to fading. For stucco homes, elastomeric paints provide the best protection against cracks and water damage. For brick and wood, breathable, mold-resistant formulas are key. Color selection also plays a role in durability. Lighter shades tend to reflect heat better, reducing the chances of fading and surface damage compared to darker colors that absorb more sunlight.

• HGTV Home by Sherwin Williams Weathershield Exterior — 100% acrylic, includes stain blocking, and is advertised for weather protection and fade resistance.
• HGTV Home by Sherwin Williams Everlast Exterior — higher end, flexes with substrate changes, good for long life.
• PPG Sun Proof Exterior House & Trim — specific for exterior, good adhesion, mildew resistance.
• Benjamin Moore Ben Exterior 100% Acrylic — premium acrylic, good brand support.
• Glidden High Endurance Plus (Paint & Primer) — paint + primer, solid option for budget-conscious but still expecting decent life.
• Glidden Premium 100% Acrylic Exterior — full acrylic, good baseline quality.
• BEHR Premium Plus Exterior Paint & Primer — the “one coat” or “paint + primer” choice with solid reputation.
• HGTV Home Weathershield Semi Gloss — good for trim or areas needing easier cleaning and more sheen.

Why Hire a Professional Painting Company in Houston

Thinking about a DIY paint job? Thinking about a DIY paint job? Here’s why that can be a bit tricky. Although it seems that anyone can paint, the climate challenges in Texas require expertise and proper application. A professional painter like the team at Guaranteed Painting Company understand this and know the right types of paints that work best on Texas home exteriors. They also understand the prep work needed to handle mold, mildew, cracks, and water damage, as well as how to time a project to avoid painting in peak humidity or during rainy stretches.

Our painting contractors specialize in painting brick, stucco, and wood homes across Houston and throughout Brazos County. We only use top-quality paints designed for Texas climates, ensuring your home not only looks beautiful but is also protected for years to come. From surface prep to final coat, we take the steps necessary to guarantee results that last.

Contact Guaranteed Painting Today

Are you in need of exterior painting services? Contact Guaranteed Painting Company today. Whether your home is brick, stucco, or wood, choosing the right paint and preparation techniques is essential in Houston’s challenging climate. By understanding the unique needs of each surface—and working with experienced professionals—you can give your home long-lasting beauty and protection.