If you’re like most people, you take great pride in your home and want to make sure it looks its best at all times. One way to achieve this is by keeping your stucco exterior looking new. Stucco is a popular siding material because it’s durable and can last for many years with proper care.
When not properly cared for, stucco can become dull, stained, and cracked. But don’t worry, there are some easy things you can do to keep your stucco exterior looking like new. In this article, we will provide 6 tips for keeping your stucco exterior looking its best!
Why Is Stucco Used?
Stucco is a type of plaster that is used as a finish coat on walls and ceilings. It is made from Portland cement, sand, and lime. It can also be mixed with water to make it more pliable. Stucco is applied wet and then left to dry. Once it dries, it becomes hard and durable.
Here are some of the reasons why stucco is used:
- Cost-effective: Stucco is a very cost-effective option for finishing a home. It is cheaper than other types of finishes, such as brick or stone.
- Durable: Stucco is a very durable material. It can last for many years if it is properly applied and maintained.
- Easy to apply: Stucco is very easy to apply. It can be applied by anyone with basic DIY skills.
- Versatile: Stucco is a very versatile material. It can be used on both interior and exterior surfaces.
- Paintable: Stucco is very paintable. This means that you can change the color of your stucco finish at any time.
- Fire retardant: Stucco is a fire retardant material. This means that it will not catch fire easily.
These are just some of the reasons why stucco is used. If you are thinking about refinishing your home’s exterior, then stucco might be the right option for you. Talk to a contractor today to see if stucco is right for your home.
How to Keep Your Stucco Exterior Looking Great
Now that you know some of the reasons why stucco is used, let’s take a look at how to keep your stucco exterior looking great. By following these tips, you can ensure that your stucco exterior will look new for many years to come.
1. Inspect Your Exterior Regularly
The first tip is to inspect your exterior regularly. This means that you should take a look at your stucco finish every few months. Look for any cracks, holes, or other damage. If you see any damage, then you should repair it as soon as possible. By repairing the damage early, you can prevent it from getting worse.
If you are not sure how to repair the damage, then you should hire a professional. A professional will be able to repair the damage quickly and correctly. At Old Pueblo Stucco, we recommend that you have your stucco inspected at least once a year.
During your inspection, you should also look for any stains. Stains can be caused by dirt, pollen, or other materials. If you see any stains, then you should clean them as soon as possible.
2. Clean Your Exterior Regularly
Stucco, like any other material, will get dirty over time. This is why it’s important to clean your stucco exterior on a regular basis. By regularly cleaning your stucco, you can prevent dirt and grime from building up.
There are many ways to clean stucco. You can use a pressure washer, garden hose, or even a brush. Just be sure to use the proper cleaners and techniques.
Pressure washing is one of the most effective ways to clean stucco. If you decide to pressure wash your stucco, be sure to use a low pressure setting. Using too much pressure can damage the stucco.
3. Repair Any Damage Immediately
One of the best ways to keep your stucco exterior looking like new is to repair any damage as soon as it occurs. Cracks, chips, and other types of damage can not only ruin the aesthetic of your home, but they can also lead to more serious problems down the road if left unaddressed.
Fortunately, most stucco repairs are relatively easy and inexpensive to fix, so there’s no reason to wait. If you do notice any damage on your stucco exterior, be sure to contact a professional stucco repair company as soon as possible to get started on the repair process.
4. Choose the Right Paint
If you decide to paint your stucco exterior, it’s important to choose the right type of paint. Not all paints are created equal, and using the wrong type of paint on stucco can lead to a number of problems, including peeling, chipping, and flaking.
To avoid these issues, make sure to use paint that’s specifically designed for stucco exteriors. These paints are formulated to adhere to the rough surface of stucco and will provide long-lasting protection against the elements.
When choosing a color for your stucco exterior, remember that light colors will reflect heat while dark colors will absorb it. If you live in a hot and sunny climate, light-colored paint will help keep your home cooler by reflecting some of the heat away.
5. Reseal Your Exterior Finish
A good quality sealer will help to keep your stucco looking fresh and new by repelling water, dirt, and other debris. Be sure to reseal every few years to keep your stucco in top condition.
When it comes to choosing a sealer, be sure to pick one that is specifically designed for use on stucco. This will ensure that it does not damage the material.
Applying sealer is a simple process, but you will need to take care to avoid getting it on any surrounding surfaces. Once it is applied, be sure to allow it to dry completely before painting or applying any other treatments to your stucco.
6. Keep Water Directed Away From Your Home
Water can cause a lot of damage to stucco, so it’s important to keep it directed away from your home. This can be done by making sure your gutters and downspouts are clear and in good working condition. You should also make sure that there is proper drainage around your foundation. If water is allowed to pool around your home, it can seep into the stucco and cause damage.
It’s also a good idea to keep an eye on any trees or shrubs near your home. Over time, their roots can grow and cause cracks in your foundation or damage to your gutters. If you notice any problems, be sure to have them addressed as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Stucco is a great material for exterior walls, but it does require some maintenance to keep it looking its best. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your stucco exterior will stay in top condition for years to come.
If you have any questions about caring for your stucco exterior or need help with a repair, be sure to contact our team of experts at Old Pueblo Stucco. We’re always happy to help!