Preparing Your Home for Painting in a Coastal Climate

puertoricopainting
May 5
2 min read

Painting a home near the coast in Puerto Rico isn’t the same as painting one inland. The mix of salty air, moisture, high UV, and wind exposure means your prep process matters as much as the paint itself. Whether you're repainting stucco in San Juan or refreshing a wood-trimmed home in Dorado, proper preparation is key to a smooth, long-lasting finish.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting your home ready before the first coat goes on.

Step 1: Power Washing Is Mandatory

Salt residue, mold, mildew, and chalky old paint will prevent new coatings from sticking. That’s why we always begin with a full power wash.

Removes dirt, debris, algae, and pollutants
Opens up pores in stucco or concrete for better primer adhesion
Reduces the risk of bubbling or peeling later

Allow 24–48 hours of dry time after washing before painting begins.

Step 2: Inspect & Repair Surfaces

Look closely for:

Cracks in stucco or plaster
Rust spots on metal railings or trim
Rot on wood siding or fascia boards
Gaps or failed caulking around windows and doors

These must be repaired before priming and painting. We patch, sand, and reseal with elastomeric caulk or stucco filler, depending on the material.

Step 3: Use the Right Primer

In coastal environments, priming isn’t optional.

We use:

Masonry primers for stucco and concrete
Stain-blocking primers over old paint
Rust-inhibiting primers on metal
Bonding primers on slick or sealed surfaces

This ensures full adhesion and better long-term protection against humidity, UV, and salt.

Step 4: Pick Paints Designed for Coastal Homes

For Puerto Rico’s coastal areas, we recommend:

🔹 Sherwin-Williams Loxon XP

Great for stucco, concrete, and masonry. Breathable and moisture-resistant.

🔹 Sherwin-Williams Duration® Exterior

Resists peeling, fading, and mildew—ideal for harsh sun and sea exposure.

Avoid using general-purpose or interior-grade paints outdoors—they simply won’t last in this environment.

Step 5: Plan Around Weather

In Puerto Rico, it’s important to time your project around:

Rainy season patterns
High humidity (typically early mornings)
Wind and dust from passing storms

Bonus: Maintenance After Painting

To keep your paint job looking sharp:

Schedule annual power washing
Plan touch-ups every 2–3 years, especially near the coast
Apply roof sealant annually to protect concrete or clay tiles

📞 Call us today at 787-339-2115 to schedule a free consultation

Let’s make your property look its absolute best.