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Stucco will dry in two to three days, but you should wait one to two months to allow it to cure fully before you paint it. The curing process is slow, but leaving the material exposed to air and natural moisture will help it reach its maximum strength. If you live in a hot, arid climate, wait a month before painting. Wait two months before painting if you live in a more moderate or wet climate.

The decision to repair or replace stucco depends on the extent of the damage. For minor issues like small cracks, holes, dirt, stains, or discoloration, a repair is typically sufficient and more cost-effective. These issues can often be resolved with a simple repair, a deep clean, and possibly a new coat of paint. However, for more significant problems such as large cracks, peeling, mold, algae, or structural water damage, a replacement might be necessary. In these cases, it is best to call a professional stucco contractor for an inspection. An expert can assess the severity of the damage, determine if there are deeper issues, and advise whether a repair is adequate or if replacing a section or an entire wall is the more cost-effective, long-term solution.

The curing time for stucco typically takes several weeks to fully complete. During the curing process, the stucco undergoes a chemical reaction and gradually hardens. It's important to note that curing is different from drying. While the surface of the stucco may dry relatively quickly within a few hours or days, the curing process continues beneath the surface, strengthening and solidifying the stucco. 

It's best to avoid excessive moisture exposure during the curing period, as it can impede the curing process. The exact curing time can vary based on factors such as temperature, humidity, and the specific stucco mixture used.

It’s not advisable to use CLR on stucco. CLR is a powerful acidic cleaner designed for removing tough mineral stains. Stucco is a porous material commonly made of cement, lime, and sand. The acidic nature of CLR can potentially damage or etch the stucco surface, leading to discoloration or deterioration. 

It is best to use cleaning solutions specifically formulated for stucco or mild household cleaners mixed with water to clean stucco siding. Always test any cleaning product in a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire stucco surface.