During summer, the heat can wreak havoc on exterior surfaces such as stucco. Stucco is a great choice for siding, but if it isn’t properly maintained, it can become vulnerable to cracking, bubbling, staining, and other common issues. This article will explain what common stucco problems occur in summer and how to avoid them, the benefits of proper stucco maintenance, what materials you should use, and whether you can do the task yourself or need to hire a professional. So read on to learn more about keeping your stucco looking great.
Common Stucco Problems That May Occur in Summer
The hot summer months can put extra strain on stucco, leading to a variety of issues. Here are some of the most common problems that can occur:
Blistering (Cracking)
As stucco is exposed to extreme temperatures, it may begin to crack and blister. Blistering occurs when the underlying substrate begins to expand, pushing against the stucco and creating an air pocket beneath it. To prevent this from happening, it is important to inspect your stucco regularly and fix any weaknesses or cracks that have formed before they get worse.
Soft Texture
Often, stucco can become soft and spongy with too much moisture. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, including leaking gutters or improper sealant usage. If you notice that your stucco has begun to feel softer than usual, check your gutters and apply a fresh coat of paint or sealant to protect the material.
Bubbling (Paint Rising)
Bubbling occurs when moist air gets trapped beneath the layers of paint and causes it to lift up. If not taken care of quickly, paint can start chipping off. To avoid this issue, ensure that the area where the stucco is installed is adequately ventilated and avoid using overly thick layers of paint.
Mold
Mold can start to grow on stucco if there is an excessive amount of moisture present. To prevent this problem, take steps to reduce the chances of moisture buildup in the area.
Heavy Staining
Stains can occur if water isn’t able to properly drain away from the stucco. Be sure to clean the area around the stucco regularly and consider installing a drainage system if necessary.
Missing Pieces
Over time, pieces of stucco may come loose due to weather or regular wear and tear. To keep your stucco looking its best, inspect it regularly for signs of damage and replace any missing pieces as soon as possible.
Efflorescence (Chalky, White Residue)
Efflorescence occurs when moisture passes through the stucco and evaporates, leaving a white, chalky residue behind. To prevent this, be sure to seal the stucco annually and clean it regularly.
Dampness
Moisture buildup can occur if a house isn’t properly sealed. This can lead to a variety of problems, including rotten wood and mold growth. To avoid this, make sure all windows and doors are properly sealed.
Cracking
Hot temperatures can cause the stucco to become weak and brittle. If this happens, it’s important to strengthen the material by applying a protective coating or patching any weakened areas.
Benefits of Properly Maintaining Stucco During Summer
Not only does properly maintaining stucco during the summer help avoid common problems, but it can also help extend its lifespan and keep it looking great for many years. Here are some of the potential benefits of properly maintaining your stucco:
Improved Lifespan
By taking care of your stucco during summer, you’ll help extend its lifespan and keep it in good condition.
Pleasant Aesthetic
Maintaining your stucco during summer will ensure that it retains its attractive appearance and helps maintain curb appeal.
Fewer Repairs
If minor issues with your stucco are fixed promptly, they won’t have the chance to become major problems in the future. This will save you both time and money down the line.
Mold & Mildew Prevention
Keeping your stucco clean and dry during the summer months will help prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
Reduced Fading
Protecting your stucco from direct sunlight will help prevent it from fading over time.
Basic Steps to Appropriately Maintain Stucco in Summer
Maintaining stucco in the summer months isn’t difficult but should still be done cautiously. Here are some basic steps that you should take to ensure your stucco stays in tip-top shape:
Inspect Annually
Inspect your stucco every year for holes, significant cracks, or separations. If repairs are needed, address them quickly to prevent further damage.
Clean Regularly
Stucco is naturally porous and can absorb stains. Be sure to regularly clean the surface to remove dirt, rain, and other environmental buildups.
Don’t Delay Repairs
It’s important to fix any small issues with your stucco before they become bigger problems. Otherwise, you could end up having to pay for much costlier repairs in the future.
Seal It Regularly
A fresh coat of sealant can help protect your stucco from moisture and humidity.
Repaint When Necessary
Repainting your stucco will help keep it looking great and also help preserve its color over time.
Keep Out of Direct Sunlight
Direct sunlight can cause your stucco to fade and weaken, so try to keep it in the shade whenever possible.
Materials Needed To Do Stucco Maintenance During Summer
To properly maintain your stucco during summer, you’ll need the following materials:
Mild Cleaner
A mild cleaner such as dish soap or laundry detergent can be used to remove dirt, grime, and other stains from stucco.
Soft Bristle Brush
An old toothbrush or other small brush can be used to scrub away stubborn dirt and grime.
Repair Materials
Materials such as mortar mix or patching compound can be used to fill in any cracks or holes in the stucco.
Sealant
Using a quality sealant will help keep moisture and humidity out of the stucco and protect it from further damage.
Paint
A fresh coat of paint can help protect the stucco from sun damage and give it a new look.
Is It Better to Hire a Professional For Stucco Maintenance?
In some cases, it may be better to hire a professional to handle your stucco maintenance. While some homeowners feel comfortable doing it themselves, hiring a professional will ensure the job is done correctly and helps reduce the risk of making a costly mistake. Additionally, a professional can identify potential problems with the stucco structure and make recommendations for repairs.
Conclusion
Stucco is a durable and attractive siding but must be maintained properly to keep it in good shape. During summer, stucco can be vulnerable to common issues such as blistering, bubbling, staining, and cracking. To keep your stucco looking its best and reduce the risk of serious damage, it’s important to take steps to maintain it. This includes inspecting the stucco regularly, cleaning it, and sealing it. In some cases, it may be beneficial to hire a professional to handle your stucco maintenance. By following these tips, you can keep your stucco looking attractive and make it last longer.