A freshly plastered exterior looks stunning and adds long-lasting durability to your home. Plaster has a smooth and even appearance. But more than that, it acts like skin that protects against the elements, water, and general damage. Regular maintenance is essential to keep the plaster in good condition and performing well for many years.
Whether your home has traditional cement plaster or, more recently, acrylic finishes, good maintenance with the help of exterior plasterers in Auckland can help manage the overall cost of repairs later. Here are some essential tips to keep your plastered exteriors immaculate.
Maintenance Tips to Follow
1. Regularly Inspect for Cracks and Damage
The primary step in maintaining your plaster exterior is regular inspection. Temperature fluctuations, settling foundations, or minor impacts can cause hairline cracks in your plaster. Every few months, walk around your house and inspect wall corners, window frames, and other junctions where two materials meet. If you notice any cracking or chipping, please address it promptly. Fixing it early can help prevent water from entering the wall surface, mould from growing underneath the plaster, or worse issues of structurally damaging your home.
2. Clean the Surface Regularly but Gently
Dirt, mould, and mildew can accumulate on plaster surfaces. They also harm the home’s structural integrity and compromise its appearance. Keeping the exterior clean and fresh will help identify an issue on time. Use a soft-bristle brush or a low-pressure hose to remove dust and dirt. For more stubborn staining, apply a mild cleaning detergent with water.
3. Repaint or Recoat Every Few Years
All plaster-coated surfaces, even the highest quality, should be repainted periodically. In general, a refresh (depending on the exposure and the type of coating used) will be needed every 7-10 years. It includes painting, updating, or rewaxing to keep the protective layer and aesthetic effect fresh.
When it comes to coatings, choose breathable, waterproof coatings that will still allow moisture trapped under the coating to escape. But it will keep new water out, thus protecting the structure underneath.
4. Respond to Moisture Issues as They Arise
Moisture is one of the greatest risks to plaster’s integrity. Efflorescence (a white powdery deposit), blistering, or discolouration are usually signs of moisture trapped behind the finish.
These concerns may stem from a leak, poor drainage, or a crack that allows water to penetrate the surface. Identifying the source and rectifying moisture issues is critical before undertaking any cosmetic repairs to the finish. Otherwise, the sign of moisture will eventually return and continue to damage the plaster beneath the surface.
Often, a professional plasterer can identify the elements causing the problem, repair the affected area, and apply any coatings that will make the plaster more resistant to moisture. In any case, remediation should be completed immediately to prevent further damage and protect the finish of your home for years.
5. Trim Back Plants Growing Against the Wall
Though climbing plants and dense shrubs may add charm to the finish of plastered exteriors, they can present some challenges. Constant contact with decaying leaves and stems traps moisture and provides a suitable environment for mould growth, eroding the plastered surfaces.
Leaving at least a thirty-centimetre to fifty-centimetre distance between the vegetation and the plaster wall surface. It will help keep the vegetation trimmed back, allow airflow, and decrease the humidity around the house.
6. Check Sealants Around Openings
Doors, windows, and vents are the most common places where water can enter. Over time, the sealants around these places can dry out, crack, and allow water to infiltrate the plaster system. Seal adherences should be checked each year. They should be replaced with the same sealant quality or better if they appear damaged.
7. Have Scheduled Professional Maintenance
Even with the best care and maintenance, a professional maintenance routine is recommended every few years. Professionals can carry out thorough external inspections and identify early signs of deterioration. They will resolve them before they become problematic.
Plaster specialists are familiar with the properties of various plaster systems, from traditional stucco to more modern thin acrylic or texture coatings. They assure that any remedial work may be warranted and that all elements work optimally. Plaster specialists also apply exterior protective finishes and reseal where necessary.
8. Safeguarding Against Impact Damages
While plaster is strong, it does chip or crack under impact. A lawn tool, a ladder, or sporting equipment could impact the plaster surface. Practice care in such areas and take precautions in busy spaces like your garage or courtyard.
Conclusion
A plastered and well-maintained exterior will do wonders for the aesthetic appeal of your home. It will also protect your property from harsh weather extremes. Good maintenance practices, like cleaning, regular inspections, and professional maintenance, will help your plastered exterior walls remain structurally sound and visually stunning for many decades. Call exterior plasterers with experience that can quickly and professionally assess, repair, and protect your home’s finish.
