How to Maintain Your Outdoor Stucco Fireplace in Cherry Creek
When it comes to outdoor fireplace care, there are five main steps to follow.
1. Dust Routinely
Colorado is known for having wild weather, and neighborhoods like Cherry Creek are no exception. Whether it's wind, rain, hail, snow, or sun, outdoor fireplaces have to endure it all. That can lead to excessive amounts of dust, dirt, and debris coating the exterior fireplace. A broom works well for getting into all the little nooks and crannies and is long enough to reach the higher places, like along the chimney.
2. Repair Cracks in the Stucco
Stucco is a sturdy material, but it can be prone to cracking. You should be regularly checking your outdoor stucco fireplace for hairline cracks. Smaller lines can be repaired with exterior caulk, but if they get any bigger, you'll need more extensive work. At that point, moisture can get past the barrier and will need a stucco contractor to come out to provide effective repairs.
3. Gently Clean the Exterior
We already touched on this a little with the dusting recommendation, but after enough time and use, every fireplace needs a little more cleaning than just brushing off dust. Use a non-abrasive brush or cloth along with mild dish soap and cool water from the garden hose to wash away things like soot and stains from wood stacked against the exterior. You can also use a low-powered pressure washer and stand at least 10 inches away.
4. Reapply Sealer
Stucco is porous, meaning there are thousands of tiny gaps in the surface. Because of this, it's essential to seal any stucco exterior. A contractor will do this during the installation; however, sealer doesn't last forever. Cherry Creek homeowners should plan on resealing their stucco fireplaces every 7 to 10 years. This timeline can always change based on several factors; if you're unsure when to reseal, call Orix Contractors for an inspection.
5. Invest in a Cover
Depending on the size and style of your outdoor stucco fireplace, a cover could be a smart investment. This would keep the exterior clean and protected when not in use and limit how often you would need to care for the fireplace. You can also use a fireplace screen, which will stop popping embers from landing on the exterior and leaving behind marks.
Trust Orix with All Your Stucco Needs
From home exteriors to outdoor fireplaces, Orix has all your stucco needs covered. We specialize in this material, so we provide high-quality installation and repairs across Denver and the Cherry Creek area. With a decade of superior craftsmanship and services focused on honesty and integrity, you can rely on our team.