Stain removal and prevention on stucco exteriors
Known for its durability and natural look, stucco is a fantastic choice for home exteriors. It is made from eco-friendly materials like limestone, concrete, and sand. However, like any material exposed to the elements, stucco can get dirty over time.
Stucco’s textured surface collects dirt, mold, and algae more easily than smoother surfaces. This buildup doesn’t just make your house look less appealing; if left unchecked, it can damage the structure over time.
Let’s examine how to clean and protect your stucco so it looks great for years.
Step 1: Inspect your stucco before cleaning
Before you grab a hose or cleaning solution, it’s essential to inspect your stucco for damage. Over time, stucco is prone to cracks or small gaps, especially around corners, windows, or edges. These cracks can let water in, which can lead to more serious damage if not addressed.
Take a few minutes to walk around and examine the stucco up close. Look for any visible cracks, chips, or gaps in the surface. You can even run your hand over the stucco to feel for irregularities. If you spot any areas that need attention, make a mental note so you can fix them before you start cleaning.
Step 2: Repair any small cracks and gaps
Minor repairs are usually easy to handle on your own. You’ll just need a caulk gun, some exterior acrylic caulk that matches the color of your stucco, and a putty knife.
Fill in any cracks or gaps using the caulk gun and smooth it out with the putty knife. If you want to blend the repair seamlessly, you can add a bit of sand to the wet caulk to match the texture of your stucco. Just let everything dry completely before you move on to cleaning.
Step 3: Give it a good rinse
Once your repairs are completed, it’s time to rinse off the stucco. Rinsing the surface helps remove loose dirt, dust, and other accumulated debris. This step is important because if you start scrubbing without rinsing, you could accidentally push debris into any remaining cracks, making things worse.
Step 4: Apply the proper cleaning solution
The cleaning solution you need depends on the stains you’re dealing with. A simple dish soap and water mix should do the trick for lighter stains, like general dirt or grime.
If you have mold or mildew, you’ll need something more substantial. A solution of bleach and water works well to kill mold and clean away those stubborn spots. If you’re not a fan of bleach, you can substitute it with a mix of Borax and dish soap, which is less toxic but still effective.
Once you’ve chosen your solution, spray it onto the stucco and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. Be sure to keep the area damp—don’t let the solution dry out, as that will make rinsing more difficult.
Step 5: Scrub away tougher stains
Now comes the part that requires a bit of elbow grease. Some stains won’t come off with a rinse and cleaning solution, so you must scrub them away.
Use a soft-bristle brush to scrub the stains gently. If you’re dealing with really stubborn spots, you might want to use a rotating brush attachment. Remember to be gentle; stucco can be delicate, and you could damage the surface if you scrub too hard.
Step 6: Rinse it all down again
Once you’ve finished scrubbing, it’s time to rinse everything off one last time. This step is crucial to ensure no cleaning solution is left behind, which could cause damage if allowed to sit on the stucco.
Start at the top of the wall and work your way down, rinsing thoroughly with your garden hose or pressure washer. This final rinse will wash away all the grime and cleaning solution, leaving your stucco fresh and clean.
Preventing future stains
Now that your stucco is clean, it’s time to think about how to keep it that way. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your stucco clean. You should clean your stucco two to three times a year to prevent dirt and grime from building up. You might even consider applying a clear stucco sealant to add an extra layer of protection. This sealant will help repel dirt and moisture, making future cleanings easier.