How to Maintain Concrete and Stucco

Wash the surface of the stucco or concrete at least once a year. Remove all built-up dirt, mud or other debris, and examine the surface for any cracks that might be beginning to form. Thoroughly clean concrete with a pressure washer, but use a garden hose for more delicate stucco.

Examine the surface for any cracks. Hairline cracks can often be left alone, but if they seem to be growing longer or wider, they may need to be repaired with filler material. Look for any chipping in the material that will need to be sealed to prevent further erosion.

Repair any cracks that are more than 1/8 inch wide. For concrete, use a chisel or hammer to gently break away the concrete along the sides of the crack to expose solid material that has not been damaged by water yet. Remove loose material with a stiff brush, apply a bonding adhesive, then fill with a commercial patching compound. For thin cracks in stucco, apply a commercial sealant to prevent the cracks from spreading.

Clean off any spots of mold or mildew that may be forming. Getting rid of spots when they're small will help prevent them from spreading and permanently damaging or staining the stucco and concrete. Use a cleaner made specifically for stucco or concrete and a hard scrub brush.

Apply a sealant to the material. Select a sealant that is made specifically for either concrete or stucco, and apply as needed. Seal the entire structure if it hasn't been done in a few years. Apply sealant sparingly if the structure has recently been sealed, and cover any newly repaired cracks with sealant.