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.
Algae on siding.
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.
Stains are the most common sign that you have algae or mildew.
Algae is found on siding that is shaded and stays damp.
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.
Unlike mold this type of growth is mainly cosmetic and can be removed using minimal force and a few basic materials.
Fortunately algae on vinyl siding will not affect the function of your siding or cause it decompose.
Black stains are usually a sign of mildew algae mold or fungus.
How do i know if my siding has algae and mildew on it.
The algae may appear brown or green in color and remain damp diminishing the appearance of your home and spreading out over time.
Green stains on siding are usually the result of mold mildew algae or moss.
The stains can be different colors which can often tell you what is causing the growth.
Fortunately siding can be cleaned to remove not only green stains but other dirt and stains that may be taking over the homes exterior.
When house siding begins to turn green it diminishes the exterior appearance of the home.
Cleaning vinyl siding will preserve the appearance of the exterior of your home.
Mold mildew and algae are just a few of the causes of dirty vinyl siding.
These stains occur naturally over time.
How to remove algae from siding 1.
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.
However vinyl siding that is left damp can result in the growth of unsightly algae.
Oxygen bleach hydrogen peroxide.
However if the algae is left to flourish it could permanently stain lighter colored siding with unsightly green brown or black spots.
Chlorine can also damage foliage and stain 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.
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.
Any building wall that stays damp and shaded may be at higher risk for hidden insect or rot damage.
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