How to Fix a Stucco Ceiling

Whether you're dealing with water stains, or severe damage to a stucco ceiling, getting the texture to match can be complicated. However, there are a few techniques that you can use to ensure that your repaired ceiling will look as good as new, and you won't be able to tell where the repair took place.

Things You'll Need

• Drywall Compound
• Stucco Sprayer
• Paint to Match Ceiling Color
• Ladder or Scaffolding

Instructions

Fix a Stucco Ceiling

1. Start by determining just how badly the ceiling has been damaged. If it is a case of discoloration, you may be able to simply stucco over the spot. However, if there is severe water damage, or you have a hole in the ceiling, you will need to cut that section out and replace it.

2. Begin by turning off the electricity to the home at the main circuit breaker. This will reduce your chance of electrocution if there are any electrical lines in the ceiling.

3. Raise your ladder or scaffolding directly under the affected area and examine it closely. Using a ceiling knife, cut away the portion that needs to be removed. Keep the cut area as small as possible to make the repair easier.

4. Take your drywall compound and spread it over the area. It is best to start with a thin layer and build on top of it, rather than slapping on too much compound at once. Allow it to dry in between coats until you have reached the same level of thickness as the original stucco ceiling. Wait until the drywall compound is completely dry before proceeding.

5. Practice with your stucco sprayer outside of your home if you have never sprayed stucco before. It takes a light touch and it's best to practice on an area that will not suffer permanent damage. Spray lightly back and forth until you have reached the desired thickness and texture.

6. Spray over the drywall compound, replicating the technique you just used with the practice board. Again, it is best to be very sparing with the stucco and add multiple coats until it matches the surrounding areas. Allow the stucco to dry completely.

7. Paint the area that you have newly stuccoed if necessary. This ceiling texture will absorb paint differently than a wall, but you will still need to use a light hand and add several coats to ensure a perfect match.