How to Clean Stucco Like a Pro

Tools and Materials

Tools

Materials

Steps to Clean and Wash Stucco

Follow the below steps to remove tough stains on any stucco surface:

Caution

Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for stucco to know the recommended cleaners.

If you are wondering how to clean stucco, start by inspecting for any cracks on its surface. Also, look for any signs of weather damage, chips or small gaps. Pay attention to areas near the door and base of the wall.

You must cover all these cracks before washing stucco to prevent any moisture from getting into the cracks. Once the water gets inside, it will freeze and thaw frequently, which will result in enlarging the smaller cracks. In the long run, this process can weaken the integrity of the structure.

Examine the cracks in the stucco wall. You may need a ladder for this task. Ask someone to hold the ladder while you work on it. First, use a soft-bristled brush to remove any dust or grime in and around the cracks. Then, squeeze a generous amount of silicone sealant from a caulking gun into the cracks or small gaps. Use a caulking tool to smooth out the sealant. You can also use your fingers to reach smaller cracks but make sure you are wearing protective gloves.

Caution

Wear safety goggles and safety gloves when applying a sealant.

Tip

While silicone is a commonly used sealant, it is specifically used to seal small cracks. If you see any large cracks or gaps in the stucco wall, it is better to get it repaired immediately by a professional.

Attach the spray nozzle to your garden hose. Wash the stucco from the top to the bottom with plain water. You can also use a pressure wash to wash stucco. Set the washer to a low-pressure setting and stand at least 10 inches away from the stucco surface. Spray the stucco with the water stream angled at 45 degrees.

Caution

Never use high-pressure water because it can damage the porous surface of stucco. Follow all safety precautions mentioned in the user manual of the power washer.

Take a tank sprayer and prepare a diluted cleaning solution as per the manufacturer’s instructions. For most cleaning solutions, you must mix a few cups of the solution in one gallon of plain water. Others might need to be diluted with equal parts of water.

Caution

Wear safety glasses, safety gloves and a respirator when preparing the cleaning solution as its fumes are extremely hazardous. Also, take maximum precaution by wearing protective gear to prevent the cleaning solution from coming in contact with your body. Never let children or pets contact the stucco cleaning solution. Keep them away while using it and store the solution appropriately.

How Often to Clean Stucco

You must clean stucco two or three times a year if you live in a region with high rainfall, high humidity or a lot of dust. It will help to prevent mold, mildew and stains from the stucco surface. For areas with low rainfall and low humidity, it would be sufficient to clean the stucco once every year.

Tips to Keep Your Stucco Clean Longer

Once you have cleaned the stucco, you can maintain it for a longer duration using the following tips:

Any overhanging branches or vines can transfer dirt, pollen and water drops to the stucco wall. Trim the branches and vines to keep them away from the stucco surface.
Inspect the stucco for any cracks on a regular basis. You must patch up even the small cracks using a good quality sealant to avoid any moisture buildup.
Check the stucco for any bird droppings, stains or mold growth. Make it a point to clean them immediately with a soft-bristled brush and water. You can follow the above steps to clean the stubborn stains.

FAQs

1. What is the best cleaner for exterior stucco?

The best cleaner for exterior stucco is one that can remove dirt as well as mold and mildew stains. This will reduce the effort and time spent on cleaning the dirt and stains with separate cleaners. You might need specialized stucco cleaners if you are dealing with rust stains or thick grime buildup.

2. How do you clean stucco by hand?

Stucco can be cleaned using your hands by using a soft-bristled brush. Spray a cleaning solution in the targeted area, then gently scrub it to loosen the dirt and debris. Work in circular motion and apply minimal pressure. Thoroughly rinse the surface with water after scrubbing.

3. Should you pressure wash stucco?

While pressure washing can be an effective way to clean stucco, it must be done carefully. Using high pressure can damage the porous texture of stucco and even lead to cracks. Always remember to change the settings to low pressure when using a pressure washer to clean stucco.

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