**Phoenix Pools: Stucco Dust Breeding Lung Mold?**

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 12, 2026

The desert air hangs heavy, thick with the promise of a monsoon downpour. It’s a welcome relief, but for Phoenix homeowners with stucco-lined pools, it can also be a recipe for disaster: Aspergillus mold. This isn’t just an aesthetic issue; it’s a potential health hazard lurking in plain sight. Let’s dive into how to protect your family and your investment.

Aspergillus thrives in warm, humid environments, and Phoenix monsoons deliver that in spades. The dust storms that precede the rain carry organic matter, which lands on your stucco and in your pool. Poor pool maintenance exacerbates the problem, creating the perfect breeding ground for mold.

First, let’s talk identification. Aspergillus isn’t always obvious. Look for these telltale signs:

• Discoloration on your stucco, often green, brown, or black. It might appear as spots, streaks, or a fuzzy coating.
• A musty or earthy odor, especially noticeable after rain.
• Visible mold growth around the waterline of your pool, or on pool equipment.

DIY testing can give you a preliminary indication. Purchase a mold test kit from a local hardware store like Home Depot or Lowe’s in Phoenix. Follow the instructions carefully, taking samples from affected areas on your stucco and around the pool. These kits typically involve sending the samples to a lab for analysis.

A common mistake is only testing the visible mold. Aspergillus can grow behind stucco, so consider testing adjacent areas as well.

Prevention is key. Here’s a step-by-step approach to minimize Aspergillus growth:

1. Regular Pool Maintenance: This is non-negotiable. Skim the pool daily, vacuum weekly, and ensure proper chemical balance. Aim for a pH of 7.2-7.8 and chlorine levels of 1-3 ppm. Neglecting this is like inviting Aspergillus to a buffet.
2. Stucco Inspection and Cleaning: Inspect your stucco regularly for cracks or damage. These are entry points for moisture and organic matter. Clean your stucco at least twice a year, ideally before and after monsoon season. Use a pressure washer with a mild detergent, being careful not to damage the stucco.
3. Proper Drainage: Ensure that water drains away from your pool and stucco. Poor drainage creates damp conditions that promote mold growth. Check your gutters and downspouts, and consider landscaping to improve drainage.
4. Ventilation: Improve ventilation around your pool area. This helps to reduce humidity and prevent mold growth. Trim back vegetation that blocks airflow.

For cleaning, the EPA recommends several solutions, but you need to be careful around your pool. Bleach is effective, but it can damage pool liners and affect water chemistry.

Here’s a safer, EPA-approved alternative:

• Borax Solution: Mix 1 cup of Borax per gallon of water. Apply the solution to the affected areas with a scrub brush. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with water. Borax is a natural fungicide and is less harsh than bleach.

Always test any cleaning solution in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage your stucco or pool liner.

Now, let’s talk about when to call a professional. If you have extensive mold growth, or if you suspect mold behind your stucco, it’s time to call in the experts.

Here’s why:

• Hidden Mold: Professionals have the tools and expertise to detect and remove mold behind walls and in other hard-to-reach areas.
• Health Concerns: Aspergillus can cause respiratory problems, especially in people with asthma or allergies. Professionals can ensure that the mold is removed safely and effectively.
• Structural Damage: Mold can damage your stucco and other building materials. Professionals can assess the damage and recommend repairs.

When choosing a mold remediation service in Maricopa County, look for these qualifications:

• Certification: The company should be certified by a reputable organization, such as the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC).
• Experience: Choose a company with a proven track record of successful mold remediation projects in the Phoenix area.
• Insurance: Make sure the company has adequate insurance coverage to protect you from liability.

Don’t just go with the cheapest option. Mold remediation is a complex process, and you want to make sure it’s done right.

Here’s a real-world example: A homeowner in Scottsdale noticed discoloration on their stucco pool wall after a particularly heavy monsoon season. They tried cleaning it themselves with bleach, but the mold kept coming back. They eventually called a professional mold remediation service, who discovered extensive mold growth behind the stucco. The professionals removed the affected stucco, treated the underlying structure, and installed new stucco. The homeowner was relieved to have the problem resolved and to know that their family was safe.

A common pitfall is trying to DIY a large-scale mold problem. This can actually make the problem worse by spreading mold spores to other areas of your home. It’s also important to address the underlying cause of the mold growth, such as poor drainage or inadequate ventilation.

Another challenge is dealing with insurance companies. Many homeowners insurance policies exclude mold damage, or they have strict limitations on coverage. Be sure to review your policy carefully and to document the mold damage thoroughly.

In conclusion, dealing with Aspergillus mold around your stucco-lined pool in Phoenix requires vigilance, proactive maintenance, and a willingness to seek professional help when needed. By following these steps, you can protect your family’s health and preserve the value of your home. Don’t let the monsoon season turn your backyard oasis into a moldy mess.