How To Keep The Outside Of A Dryvit Clean?

Dryvit coatings on buildings are designed to resist dirt pickup, but they can still get dirty. Dryvit, EIFS, or synthetic stucco can be safely and effectively cleaned using proper tools, training, and cleaning techniques. DryvitCARE offers tips for cleaning, repairing, and restoring EIFS, and can obtain a new system warranty through the Platinum Warranty Program.

Dryvit is an insulation system, making it more susceptible to damage than traditional building materials. To clean Dryvit, use a soft-bristled scrub brush and avoid using acid or acidic cleaners for general cleaning. The best way to clean Dryvit is to use a mixture of liquid dish soap and water to remove stains. If there is mold or mildew growth, stronger cleaners like bleach may be needed.

For dirt and mildew on Dryvit surfaces, a mix of bleach and alkaline soap is suitable. DryvitCARE offers tips for cleaning, repairing, and restoring EIFS, and the opportunity to obtain a new system warranty through the Platinum Warranty Program. The long-term appearance of any exterior wall depends on regular cleaning and proper maintenance.

How do you clean mold off Dryvit?

Dryvit finishes can be effectively cleaned using general cleaning compounds, followed by a mild pressurized water clean and rinse. No acidic cleaners are recommended. Enviro Klean® EIFS Clean ‘N Prep, manufactured by Prosoco, is a general-purpose cleaner suitable for Dryvit systems. It should be considered a starting point in selecting the appropriate cleaning compound. Working with the manufacturer of the cleaning compound is essential to achieve the most effective cleaning tailored to each individual home.

A test should be performed on a small, inconspicuous area before proceeding to general cleaning on a larger scale. If paint cannot be removed with proper cleaning techniques, it may be necessary to refinish or paint over it. Testing is essential to ensure the most effective cleaning tailored to each home’s specific needs.

Can you use bleach on Dryvit?

If mold and mildew are present, use bleach or cleaners to kill and remove them before applying Dryvit recoating. If efflorescence occurs due to moisture from underlying brick or cement, stop the moisture and try a general cleaning with a slightly higher pressure of water to remove a light deposit or a highly diluted acidic cleaning solution to remove a heavy deposit. Prewet the area, let it dwell, and brush it before rinsing. Start with distilled white vinager, oxalic, or citric acid. Thoroughly rinse, especially if any acid was used, to avoid adhesion problems for Dryvit recoating.

Can Dryvit be power washed?

The use of power washing equipment for the cleaning of Dryvit finishes is feasible, provided that certain precautions are taken, including the control of pressure, fan width, and spray distance from the surface.

Does Dryvit need to be painted?

The application of sealant is a relatively straightforward process that can be enhanced by the input of a professional to ensure a neat appearance, prolonged protection, and the safeguarding of the property. While Dryvit finishes may never require repainting, the addition of a new color can be made at any time should one desire to do so.

What is the best cleaner for Dryvit?

Prosoco’s Environmental Klean® EIFS Clean ‘N Prep is a general-purpose cleaning agent suitable for use on Dryvit systems. It can be used as a preliminary cleaning agent prior to selecting the most appropriate cleaning compound.

How do you fix a damaged Dryvit?

The Dryvit RapidPatch product is suitable for the repair of minor defects or damage measuring less than 3 in x 3 in (76 mm x 76 mm) in size. The application of a thickness of 3/4 in to 1 in allows for a rapid cure and may be applied on the same day under normal conditions.

What is the problem with Dryvit mold?

Dryvit stucco is prone to common issues such as caulking and sealing issues that go unnoticed over time, leading to serious mold growth and structural damage. Moisture can enter the building structure, causing costly damage and potential respiratory issues for residents. Mold spores can become airborne and travel through air duct vents, causing further damage. Improperly installed EIFS (Enveloped Infill Systems) can create a pathway for termites to enter homes, causing severe damage before it becomes noticeable.

Mold testing is crucial to prevent structural problems, attract insects and fungus, and prevent costly remediation. Mold can also cause respiratory issues and long-term health problems. Therefore, it is essential to address these issues to prevent mold growth and ensure the safety of your home.

What is the most common problem with Dryvit stucco?

The exterior finish of synthetic and hardcoat stucco homes has been criticized for its ability to collect moisture and not drain or evaporate. To address this issue, the EIFS industry has developed a more drainable system, which includes a secondary moisture barrier and a drainage mat with weep holes. A MoistureFree Warranty is needed to protect the home’s value, protect all parties in a stucco sales transaction, and provide buyers with peace of mind when purchasing a home.

The warranty covers repairs related to the stucco if elevated moisture levels are found during the warranty term, and pays to modify or repair the affected area to allow it to dry again. To purchase a warranty, the home must be inspected by a qualified moisture inspector following the MoistureFree Warranty Inspection Protocol, and the inspection report should be submitted to Moisture Warranty Corporation (MWC) for review.

MWC professionals will prepare a Certified Repair Analysis (CRA) on the home, detailing what needs to be done to make it eligible for the warranty. After completing these items, a second inspection is performed to verify the repairs have been completed and are correct, and the warranty is issued.

What is the life expectancy of Dryvit?

Dryvit EIFS are designed to have a lifespan commensurate with that of the building itself, with the actual longevity largely influenced by the maintenance program implemented. Some facades have demonstrated durability over a period of 50 to 60 years.

What is the problem with Dryvit?

Dryvit stucco is prone to common issues such as caulking and sealing issues that go unnoticed over time, leading to serious mold growth and structural damage. Moisture can enter the building structure, causing costly damage and potential respiratory issues for residents. Mold spores can become airborne and travel through air duct vents, causing further damage. Improperly installed EIFS (Enveloped Infill Systems) can create a pathway for termites to enter homes, causing severe damage before it becomes noticeable.

Mold testing is crucial to prevent structural problems, attract insects and fungus, and prevent costly remediation. Mold can also cause respiratory issues and long-term health problems. Therefore, it is essential to address these issues to prevent mold growth and ensure the safety of your home.