Can You Pressure Wash Stucco?

Pressure washing is a great option for cleaning surfaces such as concrete sidewalks, driveways, and outdoor furniture, and while the technical answer to whether or not you can pressure wash your stucco is yes, our team is going to explain why you really should not do so. Pressure washing works by using a tremendous amount of water pressure to penetrate any dirt and grime and clean surfaces. Stucco is a porous material that cannot withstand the pressure of this method of washing, and it may cause damage to the surface of your stucco. The pressure washer could cause cracks and chips, which leaves the surface more susceptible to water damage that could leave mold or mildew beneath the surface of your siding. In addition to the pressure being an issue, pressure washers may also use chemicals to clean surfaces and without the proper chemical mixture, these cleaning agents could also cause damage to your siding. Even if you are able to use low pressure, improper use of chemicals on the surface of your siding could cause costly damage to your stucco. DIY blogs may make you think pressure washing your stucco is not that risky, and while we could not disagree more strongly, if you insist on pressure washing your stucco, it is important to follow a few rules. First, check your stucco siding for signs of cracks or damage. If there are signs of damage, cracks, or chips, do not pressure wash this area. The pressure washing could cause further damage and make the repairs much more costly. Second, check the PSI of your pressure washer prior to using it. You should only use a pressure washer with a PSI of between 1,500 and 2,500 when working on your stucco. You should also keep the nozzle at least two feet away from the wall when working with it, and do not connect with the wall at a 90-degree angle. Spraying at a 45-degree angle will help lessen the pressure on your siding. After pressure washing your stucco, it will take a while to completely dry. The drying time can be anywhere from 24 hours to three days, depending on the climate at the time of pressure washing. If you’re planning on painting or working with your stucco post-pressure washing, ensure the stucco is completely dry before starting any projects. As discussed above, there can be major risks to pressure washing your stucco, including:

• Damage due to High Pressure: Pressure washers can expel water at extremely high speeds and pressures, with some spraying water at a speed of up to 243 MPH. This level of pressure can easily penetrate the porous surface of your siding and cause small chips or large cracks. These chips and cracks can leave the siding open to things like water damage or further cracking. Allowing water to seep beneath the surface of your stucco can result in mold or mildew developing, which can lead to thousands of dollars in repair costs.
• Damage due to Chemicals: If you decide to lower the pressure of your pressure washer and spray at a lower angle from further back, you may be able to handle the pressure washer without causing damage due to the speed of water. But most pressure washers contain cleaning agents that will not interact well with stucco. These chemicals could lead to chemical damage, stains, or other issues on the surface and deeper within your stucco siding.

Since stucco is a very porous material, it can be susceptible to becoming dirty, especially depending on the areas surrounding your home. Dirt, mold, and mildew may accumulate on your home over time, and cleaning is important to ensure your stucco looks nice and continues to provide protection for the rest of your home. If possible, cleaning your stucco siding two or three times a year is ideal for keeping it in excellent shape. However, many homeowners opt to clean it only once per year, which also works well for keeping stucco in good shape. If you opt to clean your stucco only once a year, there are a few tips and tricks you can follow to keep it clean longer. Dirt can cause stains around your home, so if you have dirt touching the bottom of your siding, consider covering it with rocks or mulch. If you notice any cracks or small holes in your siding, quickly repair them by spot cleaning the area, letting it dry, and covering it with caulk to avoid further damage. If you are planning on cleaning your stucco and notice some damage, or just notice any damage in general, it is worth speaking with a professional to discuss the severity and your options. Our team of stucco experts can provide you with information about your options when it comes to repairs, cleaning, or any other questions you may have about your stucco siding. Contact the team today to learn more.