Mold and mildew

Web Address: Johnson's Home Renovation, Inc.

Northern VA area, mildew and mold are common problems in many homes. These fungal growths most commonly appear on siding and gutters, creating unsightly brown, green, or black streaks and patches. Since mold/mildew can grow on nearly any surface, decreasing the visual appeal of your home and potentially posing a health hazard, it is important to know how to remove it.

The most common solution to these growths on siding is not actually the best one. Power washing the siding will usually restore the original look for a time, but it does not actually remove the spores. It is like tearing the leaves and flower off a dandelion without killing or pulling the roots, or like putting a gold cap over a rotten tooth without first removing the decay

 

The only truly effective method for cleansing the exterior of your home is to use a properly mixed spray that will both kill the fungus and cause it to release its grip on your siding. Manor Works Painting recommends mixing 1 part bleach and 1 part mildewcide/cleaning agent to 10 parts water. In more severe cases it is necessary to slightly decrease the ratio of water.

 

Many homeowners are nervous of bleach for fear of corroding their homes and introducing caustic chemicals to their yard environment. There are several ways to alleviate this concern. First, spraying the area (house and plants) with water in advance will prevent a properly mixed bleach solution from burning or corroding anything. Rinsing these items after using the bleach will complete the protection. The chemicals in bleach quickly break down in the environment and do not pose a lasting hazard. Finally, Clorox makes an environmentally friendly product called Outdoor Bleach that is not as toxic and is even safer to use near vegetation.

 

As a mildewcide/cleaning agent, many painting contractors recommend JOMAX. It is a good detergent that will help to clean off your mold and mildew, as well as regular dirt and pollen. It also leaves behind a protective barrier that helps to slow down future mildew growth.

 

Use a pump sprayer (garden sprayer) to apply your kill/clean solution to the affected surface. Try to treat 100 to 200 square feet at a time. Let the solution work for about 30 seconds, but do not let it dry. The mildew or mold should melt off with no scrubbing. If it does not, adjust the strength of your solution and spray again. Rinse the sprayed area with a pressure washer. Note: never use a power washer at close range unless you are trying to remove stubborn debris or the paint itself. Your cleaning agent should do the real work in removing stains from your siding.

Posted by Johnson's Home Renovation, Inc.

Author Credits

Mark Osboune of Manor Works