What is the green on my siding?

THE CAUSES BEHIND YOUR GREEN SIDING



Vinyl siding is quite durable; however, one of the biggest flaws is that it is susceptible to algae, mildew, and mold growth.

In certain ways, it is inevitable. After a certain amount of exposure, some growth is normal. There is a distinct difference between mold and algae. They appear quite similar. They're so alike; it's impossible to discern the differences between them.

Algae could be either green or brown. It is generally simple to get rid of since it is moist on the vinyl's surface. Algae isn't usually harmful to vinyl, but it isn't pleasant and can spread quickly, particularly during the summertime.

Mold has a distinct matter. It is prevalent in areas where there is much moisture. It can result from a drainage pipe leaking or leaking, which is another reason it's crucial to keep your gutters in good condition and free of debris. Like harmful algae, mold can be extremely dangerous, even if it's just in the exterior of your house. If you spot mold, it is imperative to take it to care of promptly.

Long term damage

The danger of creating mold over your home's siding can be the possibility that it could expand. It's short for mold to grow outside the house to reach the interior. All it takes is a split or tear, and it'll spread within and underneath your siding, which could cause damage to the structures of your house. As time passes, mold can eat away at the drywall and wood. 

It can take a long time to reach this stage, but it's entirely preventable by removing the green matter from the exterior of your home as it first shows up. If not, you are at risk of it spreading. If it is spread to your ventilation system, it could release spores into the air, resulting in serious health issues for your family and you.

It's crucial to be aware that mold and other green things in your home's exterior will only stay out if you get rid of them. It will make its way in the end, eventually lowering its value on your home and causing your family and you to get sick.

METHODS FOR REMOVAL

There are many ways to rid your home of the green and moldy stains on your home's exterior, including some at-home solutions.

Home Remedies

If you've got a small space of greenery located in a small and easy-to-access space, you can use a few options to maintain it on your own.

Bleach. Make a mixture of one part bleach and a ratio of four to. Spray the mix on the green stuff, then scrub. You typically want the bleach concentrate to be around 1-2% in strength.

Vinegar

Mix a solution of about 30% vinegar and 70%% water. Dip a scrubber into the solution and scrub away the green.

Oxy-Clean

Oxy-Clean is an excellent alternative to bleach that is regular. Combine between 4 and 6 ounces Oxy-Clean into a gallon of water. Spray it on the green stuff, and scrub.

Dawn

You can use Dawn or similar dish soap to remove the green stuff that can be found in your house, particularly when you're struggling with mildew or algae. Add a bit of Dawn to an empty bucket of water and scrub. Dish soap is the first item you try. If it isn't working, move on to one of the more effective cleaning techniques mentioned earlier.

soft wash to remove mildew from the siding of the home

POWER WASHING VS. SOFT WASHING

If you're dealing with a larger issue than you can handle with a scrubber, as per House Wash Pa, "You need to hire a company that has experience in soft washing."

One of the greatest advantages of vinyl siding is how simple it is to wash. A gentle wash can remove the mold and make your siding look brand new. It's possible to do it yourself using an attachment for your garden hose. However, it's better to work with an expert. Derek stated, "We don't touch anybody's house with more than 150 PSI of pressure, which, just to give you an idea of your garden hose in a city spigot, is going to be about 40 to 50 PSI."

Many people are familiar with power washing. However, soft washing is less well-known. The difference lies in the degree of pressure utilized. The water used for power washing has a pressure of 2500 PSI that is suitable for hard surfaces like concrete, brick, and a few stones.

Soft washing requires more pressure and an effective cleaner to make your vinyl look clean. Derek says, "Companies should never use a pressure washer on your house siding. That's why we soft wash." Excessive pressure can cause damage to your siding, and that's why low pressure is the best option in conjunction with biodegradable soaps.

Maintenance and Prevention

Is often a question that people ask what the duration of the professional soft wash will last. Derek clarifies, "The easy answer to this is that it's going last for a long time, anywhere from 1 year to three years depending on various conditions at your property, the direction your house faces to the sun in combination with trees nearby, and humidity." Soft washing isn't a one-time solution, but something you need to be aware of to avoid the growth of mold and prevent the spread of mold from your home.

If you're tired of seeing the green stuff that covers your property and wants expert help getting rid of it, contact Derek at House Wash Pa. #housewashpa