How to Clean Stucco and EIFS Safely
Stucco and its synthetic cousin EIFS show up on some Brentwood estates and many commercial buildings. Both are porous, both show mildew streaks, and both are easy to damage.
Why pressure is risky
Traditional stucco can be etched and pitted by pressure. EIFS is a foam-backed system with a thin finish coat, so pressure can gouge it or drive water behind it, where it causes rot in the wall.
Soft wash is standard
A diluted cleaner applied at low pressure, a dwell time and a gentle rinse removes mildew and dirt from stucco without affecting the texture.
Check for cracks first
Hairline cracks let water in. Note them before washing and avoid spraying directly into them.
What you can try yourself
- Wet the wall first.
- Apply a stucco-safe cleaner with a pump sprayer.
- Rinse with a garden hose.
What to avoid
- Pressure washers on EIFS.
- Scrub brushes that abrade the finish coat.
When to call a professional
Large stucco walls and EIFS on commercial buildings should be soft washed by pros familiar with the system. See our house washing service.
What customers say
"I completed a quote sheet online for an estimate to pressure wash my house. First- Clean Pressure Washing responded quickly. Chris called me to discussed what service I need. He looked at my house on the Internet so he was able to see clearly the size of the house. I also added my driveway to the cleaning process. I was given a quote, verbally and written, which I signed on a DocuSign. They communicated with me via text and were right on time based on the schedule provided. They had a truck that had the solution in it for cleaning my house, which I was really happy about because they didn’t use my water. My driveway was really messy and they did a very good job on my house and driveway. I felt the quote was fair and competitive. They got all of the mildew off the house. It looks great so I shouldn’t have any problem with my HOA for a couple years. Thanks so much, Chris. I really appreciate the service you provided!!!"
Karla J. · Google Review
"After I was blindsided by an HOA violation I quickly called 1st Class Pressure Washing. They were there the next day and cleaned the exterior of my house to perfection. I’m glad to know I’ll always have them on call for any needs going forward!"
David C. · Google Review
"1st Class did a great job cleaning the windows and vinyl on my home. The windows were in rough shape and they helped me remove the old screens and get all of the dirt and cobwebs that had built up. Would definitely recommend and use them again!"
Cassanora L. · Google Review
96 Google reviews from homeowners and businesses across Middle Tennessee. Read them all on Google.
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