5 Pro Tips For Cleaning Stucco Exteriors
Stucco has many benefits for your home, including its low maintenance, energy efficiency, and fire resistance. Stucco exteriors can be added to homes to increase their value or to qualify for lower home insurance rates. But, these sidings must be cleaned regularly to keep them in pristine condition.
It’s important to keep your exteriors clean regularly. This will ensure they last and resist the harsh weather conditions. It can be a difficult task on its own. It’s important to have some tips on how to clean exterior stucco, whether you decide to do the work yourself or hire cleaning professionals.
Here are a few ways to clean stucco surfaces effectively:
Pressure Washing Services
You can use a pressure washer to clean your exterior stucco faster and more efficiently than you could with a garden hose. Its pressure is strong enough to clean all surfaces of stucco in your home.
When cleaning stucco, it is best to use a pressure washer with a minimum of 1500 psi. Be careful with the distance between the nozzles to avoid damaging the finish. Be sure to cover or hide any nearby plants or garden beds before you begin a pressure-washing service.
Here are some tips to help you decide whether to do it yourself or hire pressure cleaning services.
Start by cleaning the surfaces.
When cleaning stucco, the pressure washer detergent tank must contain a cleaning solution that is mixed with water.
The angle and pressure of the nozzle should be controlled. The pressure washer should be aimed downwards at the siding to avoid driving water behind or beneath it.
Make sure that all detergents are washed away so that the stucco doesn’t dry out the soap. Rinse thoroughly the stucco from left to top and from right to left.
Repair Cracks On Stucco
Temperature variations often cause minor cracks in stucco or paint during seasonal changes. No plaster is immune to small cracks. In some cases, the sidings have been directly hit, causing small holes.
Fill all cracks and holes before you begin a cleaning session. Use a paintable acrylic waterproof caulk. Elastomeric paint is another option. Choose a paint that has a thicker consistency for a more effective way to cover cracks.
Repair all cracks before washing the stucco. Although you can repair some cracks, it is best to hire an expert to repair the larger ones. You can fix stucco yourself if you have the right resources. In cases of severe damage, it is best to consult a professional.
Remove Molds
Mold can also grow on stucco sidings. Mold can be removed by using an anti-mold product and a soft sponge or brush. Use these tips to remove mold. Before cleaning, it’s important to remove the properties and wash all of the stucco.
Let the solvent soak in water for at least one hour before rinsing. For best results, the solution should be applied again using the same technique. After a day, check the surfaces to see if all molds are gone.
Use Cleaning Solutions
It is important to know what cleaning solution to use for stucco stains, particularly if you have painted stucco. Avoid harsh chemicals, which can damage the quality of your siding. However, you also don’t need to use cleaning products that are too mild to remove dirt and grime. You’ll be amazed at how well some DIY solutions work around the house.
Mixing dish soap with water will remove stains. If there is stubborn dirt, you can use bleach and water. You can also use bleach mixed with a concentrated stain remover. These cleaners are available in home improvement stores. Be sure to read the label before use. Bleach can kill bacteria and mold.
When working with cleaning products and chemicals, always wear safety equipment. Next, apply the cleaning solution. You can also use a garden sprayer to apply the solution and water before cleaning the surface.
Scrub Gently but Thoroughly
Scrubbing can be optional, depending on your cleaning solution or method. Some stucco cleaners are powerful enough to remove stains and other debris on their own. However, in some cases, scrubbing may be necessary. Use a soft-bristled brush to clean the delicate stucco surface. Remember to brush the painted surfaces with only one stroke.
Conclusion
It’s not surprising that the number of houses with stucco sidings is increasing, given their benefits. It must still be cared for and maintained just like other siding materials. If you want your stucco to last, it is important to keep it. Apply the tips in this article to find a reliable contractor who can help you clean your stucco.
