Should You Power Wash Stucco?
Stucco is the most popular exterior wall finish for homes, giving them a unique and attractive look. But over time, stucco can become dirty and covered in mildew and grime. To keep it looking its best, you may wonder if pressure washing in Woodstock, GA, is a good option.
Read on to understand some signs that your stucco may need power washing and the best way to ensure safe and effective cleaning.
Signs You Need to Power Wash Your Stucco
Stuccos help protect your home from the elements and need to be cared for properly. It’s important to know when to power wash your stucco to keep it looking new and extend its life. Here are signs you may need a good power washing:
1) Stains –
Stains on stucco can be tough to remove. Power washing can help get rid of tough, set-in stains.
2) Discoloration –
If you notice that your stucco is discolored, or has lost its original color, power washing can help restore it to like-new condition.
3) Cracks –
Power washing can help get rid of dirt and other debris that may be stuck in small cracks, which can cause them to become bigger.
4) Mildew/Mold –
If you notice any signs of mildew or mold on your stucco, power washing can help get rid of it and keep it from coming back.
5) Peeling Paint –
If you’ve painted your stucco and it’s starting to peel, power washing can help remove the old paint and prepare the surface for a new coat.
What Is Power Washing and How Does It Work?
Power washing is a process that quickly and efficiently removes dirt, grime, and other contaminants from surfaces. It does this by using high-pressure jets of water to blast away the build-up. The pressure created by the water is what makes power washing so effective at removing stubborn buildup from surfaces. This method of cleaning can be used in both interior and exterior applications and can be used on a variety of surfaces such as wood, stone, stucco, and concrete.
Tips For Power Washing Stucco
Due to the power of the water jets, it is essential to use caution when power washing stucco. Here are tips to keep in mind when tackling the job:
1. Be sure to use a low-pressure setting. While it may be tempting to go with a higher pressure setting, the risk of damaging the stucco is too significant. When cleaning stucco, aim for between 500 and 1,500 PSI (pounds per square inch).
2. Avoid using harsh chemicals to clean stucco. Not only can they be bad for the environment, but they also may damage the stucco over time. Using a mild detergent is usually the best solution in most cases.
3.Work from top to bottom when pressure washing stucco, and keep a consistent distance from the stucco surface. Moving too close can damage the material, while too far away may not clean it effectively.
4. Go over each section of stucco at least twice and use even strokes when cleaning. This will ensure that any dirt or debris is removed correctly and that the surface is evenly cleaned.
5. For more challenging spots or stains, such as rust, mildew, and oil, use a brush attachment on the pressure washer to work out any stubborn areas. Be sure to avoid using wire brushes as these can damage stucco surfaces.
Contact Aqua-Nomics for professional power washing services in Alpharetta, Cumming, and Johns Creek, GA. Our expertise extends to cleaning various stucco surfaces, from roughcast to hardcoats and beyond. Rest assured, our team possesses the necessary knowledge and experience to safely clean your exterior stucco without causing any damage.