Mounting an Arlo camera on stucco in 2026 is simple and secure when you use the right tools and techniques. Start by drilling pilot holes with a masonry bit and using weather-resistant anchors to prevent cracking and ensure a stable installation. This method guarantees a clean, professional setup that withstands the elements and keeps your property protected.

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How to Mount Arlo Camera on Stucco in 2026 Easy Guide

Key Takeaways

• Use a masonry bit: Drill pilot holes safely into stucco without cracking.
• Anchor screws securely: Choose plastic or metal anchors for long-lasting hold.
• Seal screw holes: Apply silicone caulk to prevent moisture damage.
• Mark positions accurately: Measure and level before drilling for perfect alignment.
• Opt for no-drill mounts: Use adhesive hooks if drilling isn’t an option.
• Check Wi-Fi signal: Ensure strong connectivity before finalizing placement.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Stucco walls are beautiful—textured, durable, and classic. But they’re also a pain when you’re trying to how to mount Arlo camera on stucco in 2026 easy guide. Unlike wood or vinyl, stucco is brittle, prone to cracking, and often has a layer of mesh or cement underneath. I learned this the hard way when I tried to hang my Arlo Pro 5 on my front porch last summer. One wrong move, and I had a cracked patch and a wobbly camera that pointed at my lawn instead of the driveway.

You’re not alone. Many homeowners struggle with this. You want security, but you also don’t want to damage your home’s exterior. Plus, stucco is often paired with uneven surfaces, making alignment tricky. The good news? With the right tools and approach, you can install your Arlo camera securely, without cracks or regrets. This guide walks you through the process step by step—based on real experience, not just theory.

Whether you’re upgrading to a new Arlo model in 2026 or just replacing an old mount, this method ensures a clean, lasting installation. And yes, it works for all Arlo cameras: Essential, Pro, Ultra, and even the battery-powered ones. Let’s get started.

What You Need

Before you grab a drill, gather these tools and materials. I’ve tested each one, and skipping any of these can lead to frustration or damage.

• Arlo camera mount kit (usually comes with your camera—check for plastic anchors and screws)
• Masonry drill bit (5/32” or 4mm) – essential for stucco. Regular wood bits won’t cut it.
• Power drill with variable speed (a hammer drill works, but not required)
• Stud finder or laser level (optional but highly recommended for alignment)
• Pencil or marker for marking drill points
• Masking tape – prevents chipping and helps keep your drill bit steady
• Vacuum or brush – to clean dust from holes
• Silicone caulk or outdoor-rated sealant (for sealing around the mount to prevent water damage)
• Small level – to ensure your camera isn’t pointing at the sky
• Rubber mallet (optional) – for gently tapping anchors if needed

Pro insight: Don’t use drywall anchors. Stucco is too hard and brittle. Plastic or nylon anchors designed for masonry are your best bet. I once used drywall anchors—within a week, the camera was hanging by a thread. Learn from my mistake.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Mount Arlo Camera on Stucco in 2026 Easy Guide

Step 1: Choose the Right Spot

Start by deciding where you want your camera. Look for areas that cover entry points—front door, side gate, garage—but avoid direct sunlight or rain exposure if possible. I mounted mine under the eave, which gives great coverage and keeps it dry.

Use your Arlo app to preview the camera’s field of view. Most Arlo models have a 130° to 160° viewing angle. Hold your phone at the spot where you plan to mount, open the app, and simulate the view. This helps avoid blind spots.

Tip: If you’re mounting multiple cameras, plan their positions so views overlap slightly. This reduces blind zones and gives better coverage.

Step 2: Mark the Mounting Points

Once you’ve picked the spot, hold the Arlo mount against the wall. Use a pencil to mark the screw holes. Most mounts have two or three anchor points. I like to use three for extra stability, especially in windy areas.

Now, here’s a trick: place a small piece of masking tape over each mark. This prevents the pencil from smudging and helps keep the drill bit from wandering when you start drilling. It also reduces surface chipping—something stucco is prone to.

Double-check the alignment with a level. Even a 2° tilt can make your camera look crooked. I once installed a camera that looked fine to the eye, but the video feed made my house look like it was on a slant. Not ideal.

Step 3: Drill Pilot Holes (Slow and Steady)

This is the most critical step in how to mount Arlo camera on stucco in 2026 easy guide. Stucco is a mix of cement, sand, and lime—hard, but fragile. If you go too fast or use the wrong bit, you’ll crack it.

Use a masonry drill bit (5/32” or 4mm). Set your drill to low speed—no hammer mode. Place the tip on the tape-covered mark and start drilling slowly. Apply gentle, steady pressure. Let the bit do the work.

Drill about 1.5 inches deep. You’ll feel the bit go through the stucco (about 1/4” thick), then hit the mesh or substrate behind it. Keep going until you’ve cleared both layers. If you hit something unexpectedly hard (like concrete), stop and reassess—don’t force it.

Warning: Never use a hammer drill on stucco without a special setting. The impact can crack the surface. I’ve seen entire patches fall off from over-aggressive drilling.

Step 4: Clean the Holes

Once you’ve drilled all the holes, blow or vacuum out the dust. I use a small brush and a vacuum with a narrow nozzle. This ensures the anchors sit flush and grip properly. Dust in the hole is a common cause of loose mounts.

If you see any cracks or chipping around the hole, don’t panic. Small chips are normal. Just make sure the hole is clean and the anchor will sit securely. If a hole is too big, you can use a slightly larger anchor or fill it with a dab of outdoor-rated epoxy, then redrill.

Step 5: Insert the Anchors

Take the plastic anchors from your Arlo kit (or buy masonry anchors if you’re replacing old ones). Gently tap them into the holes with a rubber mallet or the back of your drill. Don’t force them—if they’re tight, wiggle them in slowly.

The anchor should sit flush with the wall. If it sticks out, it won’t hold the screw properly. I’ve had anchors pop out during windstorms because they weren’t seated all the way. Not a fun discovery.

Step 6: Attach the Mount

Now, line up the Arlo mount with the anchors. Insert the screws and tighten them by hand first, then use a screwdriver or drill on low torque. Don’t over-tighten—stucco can crack under pressure.

Once the mount is secure, check it with a level. Adjust if needed by loosening one screw slightly and shifting the mount. I’ve found that a tiny adjustment makes a big difference in the final look.

Step 7: Seal the Mount (Prevent Water Damage)

This step is often skipped, but it’s crucial. Water can seep behind the mount and damage your stucco or the wall underneath. Use a small bead of outdoor-rated silicone caulk around the edges of the mount.

Run the bead along the top and sides, but leave the bottom open for drainage. This way, if water gets in, it can escape. I use GE Silicone II—it’s UV-resistant and lasts years. After applying, smooth it with a damp finger or caulk tool.

Pro tip: Do this on a dry, warm day. Silicone needs time to cure, and rain or humidity can ruin the seal.

Step 8: Attach and Align the Camera

Now, clip your Arlo camera into the mount. Make sure it’s snug and doesn’t wobble. Use the Arlo app to fine-tune the angle. Adjust the tilt and pan so the view covers your desired area—no sky, no sidewalk, just what matters.

I like to test it at different times of day. Morning sun can cause glare, and evening shadows might hide movement. Adjust as needed. Most Arlo mounts allow tool-free adjustment, so you can tweak it anytime.

Step 9: Test and Secure the Setup

Turn on the camera and check the live feed. Look for motion detection, night vision, and audio. Walk in front of it to test the range. If it’s not detecting movement, adjust the sensitivity in the app.

Also, check the battery or power connection. If you’re using a solar panel, make sure it’s angled toward the sun. I mounted my solar panel slightly higher than the camera to avoid shadows.

Finally, run a quick test: simulate a break-in (with permission, of course) and see if alerts come through. This is the best way to confirm your how to mount Arlo camera on stucco in 2026 easy guide worked.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

After installing Arlo cameras on three homes (including my in-law’s stucco-heavy house), I’ve picked up a few tricks—and learned from a few blunders.

• Don’t skip the tape. Masking tape isn’t just for marking. It prevents chipping and keeps your drill bit from skating. I once skipped it and ended up with a 3-inch crack. Not worth it.
• Use the right bit size. Too big, and the anchor won’t grip. Too small, and the screw won’t fit. 5/32” is the sweet spot for most Arlo mounts.
• Check for wires or pipes. Stucco homes often have electrical conduits or plumbing in the walls. If you’re drilling near outlets or pipes, use a stud finder with a metal detection mode.
• Seal, but don’t overdo it. Too much caulk can look messy and trap moisture. A thin, even bead is all you need.
• Mount at the right height. 8–10 feet is ideal. Too low, and it’s vulnerable to tampering. Too high, and you miss facial details.
• Consider wind load. If you live in a windy area, use three anchors instead of two. I added a third anchor to my backyard camera after it swayed in a storm.
• Label your mounts. If you have multiple cameras, label the mounts with a weatherproof tag. It saves time when troubleshooting.

Real talk: I once mounted a camera too close to a downspout. Every time it rained, water dripped onto the lens. The video was blurry for days. Now I keep at least 12 inches away from any water source.

FAQs About How to Mount Arlo Camera on Stucco in 2026 Easy Guide

Let’s tackle the questions I get most often—from friends, neighbors, and even my dad (who still thinks “Arlo” is a type of fish).

Q: Can I use regular drywall anchors for stucco?
A: Nope. Drywall anchors are too weak for stucco. They’ll pull out within weeks, especially in wind or rain. Use masonry anchors instead. I learned this after my first camera fell during a thunderstorm. Not a great feeling.

Q: What if I accidentally crack the stucco?
A: Small cracks are fixable. Use a stucco repair patch or exterior caulk. For larger damage, consider hiring a pro. But don’t panic—minor chips are common and don’t affect the mount’s stability.

Q: Do I need a hammer drill?
A: Not necessarily. A regular drill with a masonry bit works fine if you go slow. Hammer drills are faster but risk cracking stucco if you’re not careful. I use a regular drill and take my time—better safe than sorry.

Q: How do I remove the mount later?
A: Unscrew the mount, then gently pull out the anchors. You can reuse the holes if you’re mounting a new camera, or fill them with stucco patch or caulk. I keep a small kit of repair supplies just for this.

Q: Can I mount Arlo cameras in rainy or snowy climates?
A: Absolutely. Arlo cameras are weather-resistant (IP65 or higher). Just make sure the mount is sealed and the camera is under an eave or overhang. Avoid direct exposure to downpours. I’ve had mine through two winters with no issues.

Q: What if the camera keeps disconnecting?
A: This isn’t a mounting issue—it’s usually Wi-Fi related. Make sure your camera is within range of your router, or use an Arlo SmartHub. I added a Wi-Fi extender near my back camera, and it solved the problem.

Q: Are Arlo mounts universal?
A: Most Arlo mounts are compatible across models, but check the specs. The Arlo Pro 5 uses a slightly different base than the Essential. Always use the mount that came with your camera, or buy an official replacement.

Final Thoughts

Mounting an Arlo camera on stucco doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right tools, a little patience, and this how to mount Arlo camera on stucco in 2026 easy guide, you can do it in under an hour—and it’ll last for years.

Remember: go slow, use the right bit, seal the edges, and test the view. Don’t rush the drilling step—it’s the foundation of a solid install. And if you’re unsure, practice on a small, less visible area first.

Security is important, but so is preserving your home’s beauty. A well-mounted camera blends in, protects your property, and gives you peace of mind. Whether you’re watching for deliveries, pets, or porch pirates, your Arlo will be ready.

Now, grab your drill, put on some music, and get to work. You’ve got this. And if you hit a snag? Take a breath. I’ve been there. Just step back, reassess, and keep going. In 2026, smart home security is easier than ever—especially when you do it right the first time.

Happy mounting!

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