How do i know if my siding has algae and mildew on it.
Algae on siding.
Algae on vinyl siding occurs because organic materials such as dust dirt pollen bird droppings and spider webs accumulate on the siding and algae uses it as a food source.
The algae may appear brown or green in color and remain damp diminishing the appearance of your home and spreading out over time.
These stains occur naturally over time.
It appears to make mildew vanish but on porous surfaces such as wood or vinyl siding chlorine evaporates too quickly to get to the fungi s roots guaranteeing regrowth.
Bleach is commonly used to clean dirty siding and is especially effective at remove mold mildew and algae from the surface.
Stains are the most common sign that you have algae or mildew.
Brown stains on wood siding can signal that moisture is forming underneath the wood.
Oxygen bleach hydrogen peroxide.
Mold mildew and algae are just a few of the causes of dirty vinyl siding.
Unlike mold this type of growth is mainly cosmetic and can be removed using minimal force and a few basic materials.
While algae stains on exterior walls are principally a cosmetic concern and can be cleaned using scrubbing mild soaps or more aggressive tsp substitute cleaners or detergents there may remain a hidden problem.
However if the algae is left to flourish it could permanently stain lighter colored siding with unsightly green brown or black spots.
Green stains on siding are usually the result of mold mildew algae or moss.
Less volatile than chlorine it removes mildew on and below the surface as well as algae dirt and oxidized paint but won t harm plants or clothing.
Algae growth is most common in areas that are shaded and due to the lack of sunlight remain damp for longer periods of time after it rains.
Any building wall that stays damp and shaded may be at higher risk for hidden insect or rot damage.
Let s discuss how to remove the algae from the siding.
How to remove algae from siding 1.
Will algae harm your siding.
To prevent stains you will need to clean your siding thoroughly to kill the algae and prevent it from returning.
Fortunately algae on vinyl siding will not affect the function of your siding or cause it decompose.
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Algae is found on siding that is shaded and stays damp.
Fortunately siding can be cleaned to remove not only green stains but other dirt and stains that may be taking over the homes exterior.
The stains can be different colors which can often tell you what is causing the growth.
Chlorine can also damage foliage and stain clothing.
Black stains are usually a sign of mildew algae mold or fungus.