Stucco siding looks great, but like most things requires maintenance to ensure it stays that way. While it is a low maintenance option in comparison to other sidings available on the market, now and then it will be important to inspect it for cracks and address the inevitable dirt and grime that accumulates overtime. Regular maintenance and cleaning help ensure your stucco will hold up for decades, while still looking as good as the day it was installed. Continue reading to learn more about the best ways to care for your stucco!

Cleaning Stucco
Providing your stucco was installed correctly from the start, this material is durable and should not develop major issues of damage or deterioration. Thus, the focus should be addressing normal exposure to dirt, water, and contaminants to keep your home looking bright and clean. Regular cleaning helps to preserve the color and appearance of your stucco. Thus, regular maintenance is important, albeit a simple process to complete.

Cleaning on a Regular Interval
A good rule of thumb is to plan on washing your stucco siding at least two or three times during the year. This will help ensure your stucco continues to perform at its best for years to come. Furthermore, regular washings keep your stucco looking its best and prevents stains from setting in and becoming impossible to remove. There are several effective ways to complete the cleaning process.

Can You Power Wash A Stucco House?
When considering appropriate cleaning methods, many people wonder if it is safe to power wash their siding. The short answer is yes; however, you must take care to complete the process correctly to avoid causing damage to the surface of the stucco. Using a pressure washer is a fan favorite because it simplifies the cleaning process. It is a much quicker and less strenuous alternative to hand washing. Not to mention, the pressurized water is able to provide a superior clean.
Thus, should you decide you would like to clean your stucco with a power washer, be sure to use one that has at least a 1500 psi. While a 1500 psi machine is adequate to clean stucco, a more effective and quicker alternative is a more powerful pressure washer. You can safely utilize any pressure washer that is between a 1,500 and a 2,800 psi to clean your stucco.

Important Considerations
Prior to beginning the process of power washing your stucco, it is important that you have the correct tools to complete the job without causing damage. With this in mind, it is beneficial to utilize a 40-degree nozzle with your pressure washer. Be vigilant, during the entire cleaning process that no damage is forming as a result of the pressure. Due to the force propelled by the power washer, it is wise to keep your nozzle approximately 12-24 inches away from the stucco siding any time you are using a 40-degree nozzle. Take note that you can use other tips, such as a 25-degree nozzle to obtain a more concentrated water force; however, you must adjust your distance appropriately or you will create serious damage to the surface of your stucco.

In addition to protecting your stucco, be sure to protect yourself before embarking on a cleaning journey. Protect your eyes and ears with proper safety equipment so you remain unharmed while completing stucco maintenance.

Technique
Tailoring your technique to the cleaning needs of your stucco can be helpful in achieving better results. Simply put, after accounting for a safe distance between your nozzle and the stucco, a closer range will result in a more concentrated spray. This will enhance stain and dirt removing power but will reduce the amount of square footage you can clean at a time. While this may be the best option if your stucco is particularly dirty and time is in abundance, if the converse is true, holding your nozzle out further will ensure a wider range. Hence, you will get more square footage cleaned in half the time, although with less force.

Alternative Methods
If you lack access to a power washer or are concerned about improper use leading to damage, there is another option. While a garden hose will not be as effective at removing dirt and stains from your stucco, any form of cleaning is better than none at all.
Running the hose over every inch of your stucco, working from the bottom to the top, will get the worst of the loose dirt and grime off. Working from bottom up protects your stucco from staining due to its absorbent properties. This method is most effective if your stucco is not highly textured. If you wish to maximize the results of a rinse with the garden hose, invest in a stiff brush and a little elbow grease. While the process is long and arduous, rinsing followed by a good scrub and another rinse will render great results.

Can I Use Bleach on Stucco?
If your stucco is especially dirty or has pesky mold/mildew growth, you may be wondering what kind of cleaners are both safe and effective. A common question is whether bleach is a safe method. The answer is yes; bleach is a fantastic option to tackle tough stains, especially those generated by mold and mildew growth.
Depending on the needs of your stucco, you may want to use bleach as a generalized cleaner or a spot treatment for problem areas. If you wish to use it for the entire surface, put together a mixture of 10-20 parts water mixed with 1 part bleach. For problem areas, mix 5-10 parts water with 1 part bleach for a more concentrated, powerful cleaner.

Other Cleaning Agents
If bleach isn't your thing, another effective option is traditional dish soaps like Dawn, Palmolive, or another favorite brand. Soap helps remove dirt and provides a better clean than mere water.
If you prefer an option from the manufacturer, it is possible to obtain a premixed solution that attaches directly to your garden hose. This will dispense a powerful cleaner that is approved by the manufacturer specifically for stucco cleaning.

Taking care of your investment will help it to look great and last a lifetime. The value and appearance of your home is worth marking the planner with a regular cleaning schedule. Pick and choose from these great methods to best maintain sparkling stucco siding!