30
Dec

Stucco Cleaning & Maintenance: A Homeowner’s Guide

Snow-covered stucco homes

Stucco is quite the durable and versatile material; it’s timeless and provides plenty of protection to homes and businesses alike. But durable still doesn’t mean invincible. Like any home exterior material, a bit of upkeep is needed to keep it in top condition. Without stucco cleaning, it will collect dirt and grime and risk falling into disrepair sooner than later.

If you’re reading this you’re likely in the Mid-Atlantic, where we provide our services. Here, stucco is exposed to all kinds of weather- and season-related conditions that have the potential to wear it away. That is, unless you stay on top of upkeep through your own efforts as well as those of professional contractors (like us). Here’s what you need to know about how to clean stucco and what we can do to help.

When & Why Stucco Needs Cleaning

Small issues can become big problems in what seems like the blink of an eye. Better not to even let those issues see the light of day, but how? There are a few telltale signs you can keep an eye out for:

  • Discoloration
  • Green or black algae spots
  • Mildew growth
  • Pollution buildup
  • Chalky residue
  • White powdery deposits called efflorescence

Thanks to the unpredictable weather in Maryland and its surrounding areas, moisture-related issues can pop up at pretty much any time of year. During the winter, however, the freeze-thaw cycles pose an additional threat. If you want to maintain your home’s curb appeal and overall exterior health (and save big bucks in the long run), regular stucco maintenance is a must.

How to Clean Stucco: Step-by-Step Basics

So you’ve taken a look at your stucco and noticed a clear sign of trouble to come. How do you go about cleaning it? Let’s take a look.

Step 1: Preparation

Don’t start cleaning just yet! There are a few things we need to do to prepare. Make sure nearby landscaping, windows, and other fixtures are covered with adequate protection. As you gather your stucco cleaning tools, keep in mind you want them to be gentle; opt for soft-bristle brushes and avoid wire ones.

Step 2: Cleaning Solutions

For basic dirt, choose detergents that are on the mild side, as they will be adequate for the common grime that typically appears on stucco. However, if you’re dealing with mildew or algae, you may need to get specialized cleaning solutions. Rust staining and efflorescence will require professional grade products. For such issues, consider giving us a call to inspect the extent of the blemishes.

Step 3: Safe Pressure Washing

Stucco cleaning may sometimes require the use of a pressure washer. If this is the case for you, be aware of safe practices regarding such a tool. Water can be powerful, and you don’t want to use settings that are too high. Too much pressure can crack the stucco and push water under the surface, causing additional damage over time.

Step 4: Rinse & Inspect

Once you’re finished cleaning, make sure you rinse the entire surface thoroughly to make sure all dirt and soap residue has been removed. As a final step, make sure there are no cracks or water entry points that may have appeared during cleaning.

Stucco Maintenance: Cleaning & Prevention

Cleaning is great and all, but prevention is oh so much better! Effective stucco maintenance will stop the problems before they have a chance to start.

  • Caulking and Sealing: Sealing the gaps around your windows and doors can prevent water from infiltrating where it isn’t wanted.
  • Crack Repair: Even small cracks present big opportunities for water intrusion and freeze damage, so repair them as soon as you notice them.
  • Protective Coatings: Use breathable sealers to avoid staining and dirt accumulation while preventing moisture from getting trapped.
  • Seasonal Checks: Getting a professional inspection during the spring and fall is essential to making sure your stucco is ready for the coming weather.

Why Professional Stucco Services Add Value

Some homeowners may attempt the more difficult tasks themselves, but certain repairs and maintenance are best left to the professionals. Why? Because not only is specialized knowledge required, but also expertise in performing repairs. Knowing how to handle stucco safely requires plenty of experience, and expert knowledge of stucco and EIFS systems can be a big boon for homeowners and the longevity of their exteriors.

We provide comprehensive stucco services such as:

  • Professional stucco cleaning
  • Surface restoration and crack repairs
  • Caulking and sealing
  • Preventative maintenance and protective coating

Trust Robey, the Stucco Maintenance Masters

There are plenty of ways you can keep the stucco on your home in top condition, but as we just discussed, some situations call for the professionals. Robey has been in the businesses for decades, so we know a thing or ten about stucco cleaning and maintenance. To schedule stucco maintenance or installation, get in touch with us today!