Stucco homes are popular for their elegance, durability, and practicality. They work well in different climates, be it tropical or hot and dry. Stucco has excellent insulation capabilities and curb appeal. However, like other building materials, it requires care and maintenance to keep it in good condition.
If you live in a stucco home and want to learn how to effectively clean it or gain knowledge in this subject, read on. We share some easy, workable solutions to primp up your stucco home. So, let’s start.
Regular Cleaning
The exterior of your stucco home can deface over time. Dust, debris, and other pollutants can mar its beauty. Regular cleaning is the best way to keep it in its best appearance.
How To Clean Stucco Homes
You can use the following methods to clean your stucco home.
- Pressure washing: It is very effective in cleaning your home. The key is to use a good-quality pressure washer with a low or medium setting to avoid damaging the stucco.
- Scrubbing: Scrubbing is useful for stubborn stains or hard-to-reach areas. Again, use a soft-bristled brush with soapy water to avoid damaging the stucco.
- Mild Cleaner: Do not use a harsh chemical. Opt for a milder formula that maintains the natural look of stucco. Special chemicals made for stucco should be used.
Repair Cracks
Despite its robust nature, stucco can decay. Weather, settling of the home, and other factors affect it, and it develops cracks. These cracks can exacerbate over time and allow water seepage, which can affect the structure of the house.
How To Repair Stucco Cracks
Here’s what you can do to repair stucco cracks.
- For Small Cracks: If the cracks are hairline thin, you can apply a stucco patching compound with the help of a putty knife.
- For Large Cracks: Large cracks call for professional help. Hire a contractor who can do this job and restore the facade of your stucco home.
We recommend stucco inspection twice a year to check for cracks. It is easier and cheaper to repair cracks when they are small.
Keep Gutters Clean
Choked gutters can lead to many complications. They encourage mold growth, compromise the sewerage system, and even break plumbing pipes. The excessive moisture caused by clogged gutters can also impair the stucco and make it look stained and discolored.
How To Clean Gutters
Keeping your drainage system flowing is not hard. Here’s what you can do.
- Clear Debris: Dirt, twigs, and dry leaves can accumulate in gutters. Regularly remove the debris to keep the water running. If leaves constantly fall near the gutter, consider relocating it.
- Check Downspouts: The downspouts should direct water away from stucco walls. Check them regularly and make sure they are not clogged or broken.
Stucco Inspection
It is advisable to have regular stucco inspections to look for issues with your home. You can also hire experts to do this job, as they are trained to do it and have an eye for details. Issues like water infiltration, cracks, or even pest infestation can compromise your stucco home’s stability. Here’s what happens during a typical stucco inspection.
- Finding Cracks And Gaps: Look for visible cracks or any signs that could pose problems in the future.
- Moisture Check: Excessive moisture inside the house can lead to many problems. It promotes mold and mildew, stains the walls, and produces a stale and stuffy feeling. There are specialized tools to detect moisture levels and trace their source.
- Assessing Its Condition: Experts will also check the stucco’s color, texture, and stability, which will help them assess its overall condition and longevity.
Schedule stucco inspection at least once a year. It is especially important if you live in an area that receives frequent rains or storms. Extreme weather conditions can depreciate your stucco quickly.
Conclusion: Your Stucco Homes Need Constant Care
Stucco homes have stood the test of time. Their popularity continues to grow because they are resilient, practical, and energy efficient. However, they do require maintenance to ensure they remain in good condition.
Regular cleaning, finding cracks and gaps, and cleaning gutters can help keep your stucco home in top condition and livable for a long time. Remember, a little maintenance will go a long way in keeping your home livable and saving on expensive repairs. Schedule a stucco inspection at least once a year to learn if everything is alright in your home. At 1st Rate Inspections, we perform professional and comprehensive home inspections to ensure your stucco home is well-maintained and stays safe for living. The time to fix problems is when they’re minor and easily fixable, not when they gradually become large and unmanageable. For your stucco inspection, hire the best stucco inspection company available in your area; contact 1st Rate Inspections today.
