Stucco is a composite of cement, sand and lime, and it’s a building element long prized for its versatility, durability and low cost. Stucco can be bumpy and rough, almost as fine as plaster or any texture in between depending on how it is mixed and applied. Mold growing on exterior stucco walls is not only unsightly, it can cause larger problems if it gets in between your home’s exterior stucco and framing. Preventing mold is best, but the sooner you identify and treat exterior mold, the longer your stucco will last and the better it will look.

Preventing Stucco From Developing Mold

There are several ways to prevent mold on exterior stucco. First, make sure water cannot pool anywhere along the base of the walls, or run down them because of improperly installed or leaking gutters. Check often for cracks or tears in the surface of your stucco, because mold can feed on the framing behind the stucco. Wash your exterior walls with diluted dish liquid, and and rinse with a pressure washer. This will remove the dust, dirt and stray plant matter that mold loves to feed on.

Identifying Exterior Mold on Stucco

Mold on exterior stucco looks pretty much like mold on anything else. It can present as green, dark brown or black patches and streaks, or fuzzy-looking stains. Check around your gutters, around windows and doors, and along the base of your walls. Mold thrives in damp areas where there is a lot of plant matter on which to feed, so check carefully around and behind any bushes, flowers and trees that grow close to your home.

Removing Exterior Mold From Stucco

Brush away any dirt and debris with a stiff-bristled brush. Inspect your stucco to make sure there are no deep cracks or large tears. If there are, you will need to have a professional come and inspect your exterior walls to make sure no mold has developed between the stucco and the framing.

Mix together a solution of 5 parts water to 1 part oxygen bleach. Chlorine bleach will also work, but it can damage nearby plants. Wear rubber gloves and long sleeves to protect your hands and arms, and spray the mold with the bleach solution. Use a sponge to scrub away the mold, and then rinse the area thoroughly with clear water. You can use a pressure washer, but a garden hose will also work.

When to Call a Professional

If the mold on your exterior stucco resists oxygen bleach, keeps coming back even when you are proactive in your prevention efforts or is concentrated in cracks and tears in your stucco, it is time to call in a professional.

Cracked Brick and Stucco Repair from CDP Stucco

CDP Stucco has repaired cracked stucco for homeowners throughout Florida. If you are unsure if the cracks indicate foundation failure, a representative from CDP Stucco can provide an inspection to give you back peace of mind.

Contact us today for an inspection of your cracked stucco repair! If you are interested in Stucco Installation or Stucco Repair, call the experts at CDP Stucco now at 850-259-2283