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When you are looking at how to clean stucco, there are several steps you need to take to get the job done right.
Using a pressure washer makes the job relatively quick and easy, but it is critical that you use the pressure washer correctly. This will ensure that all stains are removed and that you can keep your stucco looking like new.
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Why Use a Pressure Washer for Clean Stucco
Stucco is a very porous and textured material, making it hard to clean. Dirt and grime settles into the stucco, leaving it discolored and looking dirty.
To get into the pores and remove all of the dirt and grime, you need to use something with power and this is where a pressure washer comes in. It is able to get into the areas of pores and texture to essentially force out the dirt and grime for a thorough cleaning.
Preparing for Clean Stucco
You will start by getting your pressure washer together and ready for the job. Next, inspect the stucco for problems, such as chips or cracks. It is important to avoid pressure washing these areas because it can make them worse.
You can avoid these areas during the cleaning, or better yet, fill them and allow this to set prior to using a pressure washer on your home. If you do fill first, you have to wait approximately one week before using a pressure washer on these areas.
The Cleaning Process
Start by diving your home into sections and do the detergent rinsing per section. When you clean a section at a time, this prevents the detergent from drying so that there is no leftover residue. It is best to apply the detergent from bottom to top and then rinse each section top to bottom.
This allows for all of the dirt and grime to go downward so that it does not re-stain the areas that you have already cleaned. Use a moderate PSI and a 20-degree nozzle to cleanse your house, both during the detergent and the rinsing stages.
Dealing with Stains and Rust
If you have areas of stains and rust, you will need a little more power to get the job done. After applying your detergent, use a rotating scrub brush to loosen up the stains and rust in the area.
Once you get to the rinsing, the stains and rust will rinse away. If they do not rinse away immediately, which is common with rust, you may need to scrub and rinse multiple times to fully remove it from your stucco walls.
As you can see, when it comes to how to clean stucco, using a power washer offers the easiest and most effective method. Just make sure to follow the steps in order so that you get the most effective clean.
This will allow the dirt and debris to cascade down so that you do not have to keep re-rinsing areas on your home.