Here's what most pressure washing companies won't tell you: stucco is one of the easiest exterior surfaces to damage if it's cleaned the same way as concrete or brick. That's why many contractors quietly avoid it, or they give you a sky-high quote to make the decision for you.
If you own a stucco home in Mocksville, North Carolina (or anywhere in Davie County and nearby areas), this matters. Our humid seasons make algae and mildew common, but cleaning stucco the wrong way can lead to water intrusion, peeling paint, and costly repairs.
Stucco Isn't "Just a Wall", It's a System
Stucco looks tough, but it's often part of a layered assembly. Once water gets pushed into small cracks or around windows and trim, it can get trapped behind the surface. That's where the expensive problems start.
This is the big reason many "driveway-first" pressure washers don't want stucco on the schedule: the liability is higher, and the work requires more care.
Why Pressure Washing Stucco Goes Wrong So Often
Most damage happens when someone uses high PSI and gets too close. Common issues include:
- Etching or striping (uneven clean lines you can't unsee)
- Chipped or loosened finish coat
- Paint failure (bubbling, flaking, peeling)
- Water intrusion around cracks, light fixtures, vents, and windows
In places like Mocksville, Clemmons, Advance, Bermuda Run, Statesville, Salisbury, and Winston-Salem, we also see recurring green growth on shaded sides of homes, so homeowners feel pressured to "blast it off." That's usually the wrong move.
The Real Reason Pros Avoid Stucco: It Takes Skill (and Time)
A lot of companies are set up for fast jobs: driveways, sidewalks, maybe vinyl siding. Stucco requires a different approach, more prep, the right cleaning solution, controlled rinse pressure, and extra attention around any openings.
So you get one of two outcomes:
- No one wants the job, so your stucco stays stained longer and worsens over time; or
- The wrong person says yes, treats it like concrete, and the surface (or what's behind it) gets damaged.
The Safer Method: Soft Washing Stucco in Mocksville NC
In many cases, the best results come from soft washing stucco, which relies on appropriate cleaning solutions and low-pressure rinsing, not brute force.
A safer stucco cleaning plan typically includes:
- Treating algae/mildew with the right mix
- Allowing dwell time so growth releases
- Rinsing with low pressure and the correct tip
- Avoiding aggressive spraying near cracks and seals
If you're comparing companies, ask directly whether they use soft washing for stucco and how they protect windows, doors, and penetrations.
Real Results: Before & After Stucco Cleaning
Here's what proper stucco cleaning looks like when done right:
Before
After
Same chimney. Same stucco. Different approach. When you use the right technique and the right solution, the difference speaks for itself.
When You Should NOT Wash Stucco Yet
If you notice any of the following, cleaning should start with an inspection:
- Visible cracks you can catch a fingernail on
- Loose or hollow-sounding areas
- Failing caulk around windows/doors
- Interior water staining on the same wall
A reputable exterior cleaning pro in Davie County NC will talk through those risks instead of rushing to spray.
Quick FAQ: Stucco & Pressure Washing
Can you pressure wash stucco?
Sometimes, but it should usually be low-pressure and paired with the correct detergents. High PSI can cause damage.
How often should stucco be cleaned in North Carolina?
Most homes in the Mocksville area benefit from cleaning every 12–24 months, depending on shade, trees, and moisture exposure.
What causes green stains on stucco?
Typically algae/mildew, common in humid NC weather, especially on north-facing or shaded walls.
Need Stucco Cleaning in Mocksville or Nearby Counties?
If you're looking for pressure washing in Mocksville NC (and you have stucco), make sure the company is equipped to clean it safely, often with a soft wash approach.
Learn more about our professional exterior cleaning services and how we handle stucco with care.
Ready to get your stucco cleaned the right way? Contact us today for a free assessment. We'll evaluate your stucco and explain exactly how we'd approach it, no pressure, no surprises. (336) 335-4027