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The Daily Insight

What causes rust spots on stucco?

Author

James Stevens

Updated on March 03, 2026

There can be several causes for this phenomenon including the sand source, shipping, the water source or an external debris source on the plastered wall prior to painting. These iron deposits will rust when aggravated by the caustic stucco cement, water and air. It is a fairly rare occurrence, but it does happen.

What years was EIFS?

EIFS started to be used in North America in the 1960s, at first on commercial masonry buildings. EIFS became very popular in the mid- 1970s due to the oil embargo and the resultant surge in interest in insulating wall systems that conserve energy used for heating and cooling.

Why is my stucco turning black?

Black Stains on Stucco: Causes Rain water – It can wash down contaminants from roof surfaces and windows. These get absorbed into untreated stucco, causing stains and deterioration. Rotted wood – This, or deteriorating felt paper, can also “bleed” out from under the stucco.

How do you get rust off stucco?

Rust Stain Removal: Stucco

  1. Step 1 – Buy a Rust Remover. Get a commercial rust remover.
  2. Step 2 – Mix the Solution. If the solution requires mixing then follow the directions on the product.
  3. Step 3 – Spray the Area. Spray on the rust remover solution to the affected area thoroughly.
  4. Step 4 – Wash it Away.

How long will EIFS last?

Dryvit EIFS are designed to last for the typical design life of a building. The actual longevity on any specific building will depend mainly on the building maintenance program. Some EIFS facades date back 50-60 years.

Can you pressure wash EIFS?

The good news is EIFS can be cleaned if your pressure washing contractor is trained like Sparkle Wash technicians are. Unskilled power wash operators tend toward use of high pressures or harsh chemicals, either of which can damage the finish coat of the material.

Can I pressure wash stucco?

Stucco is a great alternative to your standard siding, brick or stone walls. Unfortunately, the textured surface of stucco is notorious for accumulating dust and dirt over time. Luckily, the power of a pressure washer can blast the stains away and make your walls look new again.

What are the risks of EIFS installation?

EIFS installers may also have difficulty obtaining insurance coverage due to the high degree of risk and the possibility of litigation. EIFS manufacturers that are sued by homeowners generally deny the claims and attribute moisture problems to improper installation. The latest generation of EIFS is purported to address moisture buildup issues.

Why are EIFS lawsuits so difficult to litigate?

Since the 1990s, homeowner across the country have filed EIFS lawsuits seeking compensation for water damage and other losses. As with other types of construction disputes, these cases can be difficult to litigate due to the many parties involved.

What is exterior insulation and finish System (EIFS)?

But many homeowners have learned the hard way that what they thought was stucco is, in fact, a synthetic stucco known as Exterior Insulating and Finish System (EIFS). EIFS prone to water-related defects that can cause major headaches—and expenses—for homeowners.

Do EIFS cause moisture buildup and damage homeowners insurance?

EIFS manufacturers that are sued by homeowners generally deny the claims and attribute moisture problems to improper installation. The latest generation of EIFS is purported to address moisture buildup issues. But insurers don’t always differentiate between older “barrier” EIFS and newer “drainable” EIFS.