Have you ever wondered what that green stuff is on the side of your house? You know it’s ugly, but is it causing any damage? What is it exactly? How can you get rid of it?

Let’s take a closer look at what’s causing this, why it’s bad for your home, and what you can do to get rid of it.

The Causes: Green Mold, Green Mildew, and Algae

Many homeowners in northeast Ohio find their home’s exterior prone to green mildew, algae, and mold growth. In some ways, this growth is inevitable. After a certain amount of exposure, some green growth is to be expected. But there’s a difference between algae and mold. They look very similar. So similar, in fact, that it’s hard to tell the difference between them.

Algae may be brown or green, or even somewhere in the middle (like olive green) in color. It’s generally easy to remove as it stays moist against the surface. Algae in and of itself doesn’t usually harm the siding, but it is unsightly and it can spread rapidly, especially in the warmer months.

Mold is a different story. Mold grows in areas where there is excess moisture and may result from a leaky gutter or drain pipes, another reason why it is so important to keep your gutters clean and free of debris.

Is green mold dangerous?

Is green mold dangerous? In a word, yes. Green mold on your home’s siding can pose several dangers so it’s important to address it promptly. The mold can weaken the structure of your home, as it feeds on organic materials such as wood that are used to construct your siding. This can lead to costly repairs if the issue is not resolved in a timely manner.

Additionally, mold can cause a number of health issues. Continuous exposure is particularly harmful to the respiratory system. Exposure to green mold can trigger asthma attacks and allergic reactions. If disturbed, it can release mold spores into the air that can be inhaled and cause health problems.

Methods for Removal

There are multiple ways to remove mold and other green stuff on the outside of your home.

Home Remedies

It’s important to keep in mind that while some home remedies can be effective in removing mold, they may not be sufficient for a massive mold infestation. If you have a large mold infestation or if the mold is affecting areas of your home that are difficult to reach, it’s recommended to seek professional cleaning or mold remediation services.

Bleach

Mix a bleach solution of one part bleach to four parts water. Spray it on the green stuff and scrub.

Baking Soda

Start by mixing 1/4 tablespoon of baking soda with a cup of water, then spray it onto the affected area, letting it sit for a few minutes. Next, use a scrub brush or sponge to scrub the moldy area and remove the mold from the surface. After scrubbing, rinse the area with water to remove any remaining mold and baking soda solution.

Vinegar

To continue the cleaning process, mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the affected area with the vinegar solution and let it sit for a few hours. Finally, rinse the area with water to remove the vinegar solution and any remaining mold.

Professional Cleaning Services

For a more massive mold infestation, reach out to a professional. It takes proper training to ensure large growths are completely removed from your home.

Power washing is a cleaning method that uses a high-pressure water spray to clean dirt, grime, and other debris from surfaces. When it comes to green mold on the exterior of your home, power washing can be an effective method of removal.

Preventing Green Mold Growth

Power washing is not only effective in removing existing mold, but it can also help prevent future mold growth by removing the organic material that mold can feed on. Having your home regularly pressure washed can help prevent mold growth as it removes dirt, debris, and other organic material that mold can feed on from your home’s exterior surfaces.

Trimming plants and other vegetation around your home is another way to prevent green mold growth. Moisture-rich environments (or environments with high humidity) can create ideal conditions for mold growth. Overhanging trees or bushes can create shade and trap moisture against your home’s exterior surfaces, creating a breeding ground for mold. Trimming back any vegetation around your home’s exterior can promote airflow and prevent moisture buildup.

Finally, fixing any leaks is essential to preventing mold as moisture from leaks can promote growth. Inspect your home regularly for any signs of leaks, and fix any issues promptly to prevent moisture from entering your home’s structure. This can include fixing leaky roofs, repairing damaged gutters, and sealing any gaps or cracks in your home’s exterior.

Trotta’s Power Washing Can Help

Concerned about the green growth on your home’s exterior? Our expert cleaning team uses powerful solutions that cut through the green stuff quickly and safely, leaving you with a home that looks beautiful.

Nobody works harder or treats your home with more care than Trotta’s. Call Trotta’s Power Washing today at (330) 940-3705 to schedule your power washing services.