Many homeowners love the look of stucco on the outside of their house. Stucco is a siding with a combination of cement, sand, and water. It adds texture to the exterior of the home. According to Bob Villa, with proper maintenance, stucco can last longer than 50 years. With these tips, you should have long-lasting stucco on your house.

Tip 1: Inspect Your Stucco

Temperature changes can be difficult for stucco. You should inspect the stucco during cold and hot weather. This inspection can help you catch problem areas quickly. A crack that looks minor in one temperature may be more pronounced in a different temperature.

Tip 2: Look for Peeling

If you have painted your stucco and you notice it is peeling, this indicates that the stucco was not prepared properly before it was painted. In addition, this could be a sign that moisture is seeping between the stucco and the wall and causing water damage.

Tip 3: Repair Cracks

If you see small cracks, they may be caused by changes in temperature. Holes may be caused by impact to the stucco. You should fill them with waterproof and paintable acrylic caulk if you see either. If it is an extensive repair, you should contact a professional to address it.

Tip 4: Select Proper Products

It is critical that you use high-quality products. Stucco is prone to absorb water and moisture. Therefore, you should use waterproofing primer and paint to extend your stucco life. Acrylic latex paint is an excellent option for stucco. This paint provides the best coverage and retains color.

Tip 5: Keep Walls Clean and Dry

The best way to prevent build-up is to clean your exterior twice a year. Before any cleaning, you want to ensure no holes or cracks in your stucco. It would be best to use a regular hose and not a power washer to clean your stucco. You also want to ensure that water is not constantly hitting your stucco. Finally, you want to ensure your sprinklers are not spraying your stucco. Keeping water away helps to prevent mold and mildew from growing.

By following the tips listed above, you can avoid costly repairs to your stucco. Instead, you will have a beautiful home exterior for decades.