In This Article
Stucco is a popular exterior choice for Florida homes, offering durability and classic aesthetics. With proper maintenance, stucco can last for decades. Here's how to keep your stucco in top condition.
Regular Inspections
Seasonal Checks
Walk around your home each season and look for cracks, stains, or damage. Catching problems early prevents them from becoming expensive repairs.
After Storms
Florida storms can damage stucco through flying debris or water intrusion. Inspect your exterior after any significant weather event.
Annual Professional Inspection
Consider scheduling an annual inspection with a stucco professional. We can spot developing issues that homeowners might miss.
Cleaning Your Stucco
Gentle Washing
Clean your stucco annually using a garden hose and soft brush. Avoid pressure washing, which can damage the surface or force water behind the stucco.
Mold and Mildew
Florida's humidity encourages mold growth. A solution of one part bleach to ten parts water can remove mold. Rinse thoroughly afterward.
Stubborn Stains
For tough stains, use a stucco-safe cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the surface or discolor the finish.
Protecting Your Stucco
Maintain Landscaping
Keep plants trimmed away from stucco walls. Vegetation traps moisture and can cause damage over time.
Check Irrigation
Make sure sprinklers aren't spraying directly on stucco surfaces. Constant water exposure leads to problems.
Address Drainage
Ensure water drains away from your foundation. Standing water near stucco walls causes damage from the ground up.
When to Call Professionals
Some maintenance tasks require professional help:
- • Crack repair and patching
- • Color matching for repairs
- • EIFS (synthetic stucco) issues
- • Water damage assessment
- • Complete recoating
Don't wait until small issues become big problems. Contact us today!