What You Need to Know About Stucco
Some Colorado Springs homeowners prefer stucco on their home’s exterior due to its beautiful appearance, low upkeep, and high level of durability. Here we will cover some of the most common questions we hear from our loyal and valued customers who are considering this as the covering for the exterior of their home.
Can Stucco Be Painted?
Yes, stucco siding can be painted, or you can also purchase stucco that comes already colored. If you choose to paint it yourself, you want to select a cement-based paint as they are made from similar materials. Acrylic paints affect the breathability of the stucco, so they aren’t recommended for this particular material.
Can You Clean Stucco?
Dirty stucco can be cleaned and, because it is porous, it is best to wet it first to loosen the dirt and then work from the bottom of the wall, moving up as you go. You can use either a regular garden hose or, if you prefer more power, there are fan-shaped sprayers that work well too. Just make sure you spray the water evenly to avoid damaging the stucco finish and if you want to use cleaners or a brush, start with a small area to make sure they don’t damage the stucco either.
How Can I Tell If I Have a Moisture Issue Under My Stucco Siding?
Unfortunately, there is no real way to tell whether your stucco siding is accumulating water in your walls other than to have a professional do an inspection for you. This starts by doing a visual inspection, looking for things such as the use or lack of head flashing and kick out flashing, and any visible water stains or cracking.
The next step is to do a more invasive test which requires drilling ¼ inch holes into the walls (which are filled once testing is complete) to check for moisture inside, taking out actual sections if a problem is suspected and further investigation is needed. Sometimes, a scanner or infrared camera may be used to assist with this process.
The main goal is to determine whether or not your walls are holding water. This can occur either due to damage, or if the original installers engaged in poor attention to detail. Regardless, any water issue needs to be resolved in order to protect the integrity of your home.
How Can We Help You?
The reliable and expert Home Improvement Specialists at Seamless Choice Siding are dedicated to providing you with the best service, workmanship, and products, no matter what your home’s exterior needs. So, if you have more questions about stucco, or anything else related to your home building, repair, or remodeling projects, just give us a call at (719) 445-7888.
We offer free consultations and estimates, which means you have nothing to lose and everything to gain by setting up your appointment today! Seamless Choice is a local Colorado Springs licensed and insured contractor committed to meeting all of your house siding, replacement windows, seamless gutters, soffit, and fascia needs.
