How to Prevent Mould and Algae From Taking Over Your Home’s Exterior
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Seeing dark spots or greenish patches on your home’s exterior can be a real drag. These ugly marks usually mean you have mould or algae, which love Australia’s varied climate. They don’t just make your house look bad; they can also harm its structure and even your family’s health. Knowing why they grow and how to deal with them is crucial for keeping your home healthy and looking good.
Understanding Mould Growth
Mould is a type of fungus found almost everywhere, both inside and outside. It spreads through tiny spores that float in the air. When these spores land on a damp surface with something to feed on, they start to grow. Mould often feeds on things like wood, paper, paint, and even dust. The main thing mould needs to grow is moisture. Leaky gutters, high humidity, or shady spots that don’t dry out create perfect conditions for mould to thrive.
Health Risks of Algae
Algae isn’t usually as big a health risk as mould, but you shouldn’t ignore it. Green algae on paths, decks, or stairs can get super slippery when wet, making it easy to fall. Plus, algae can become a food source for mould, which means having algae can lead to an even bigger problem. It’s the mould in the house and the areas around it that cause more direct health issues. Breathing in mould spores can trigger allergies, asthma attacks, and other breathing problems for people who are sensitive to it. You might notice symptoms like sneezing, a runny nose, red eyes, or skin rashes.
Where They Thrive Outdoors
You’ll often find them on the shaded side of the house, where there’s not much direct sunlight and moisture tends to stick around. That’s why regular exterior house washing can be helpful. Other common spots include:
- Under eaves and around downpipes
- On brickwork, render, and weatherboards
- On timber decking, fences, and retaining walls
- On concrete driveways and pathways, especially in damp corners
Dealing with these problem areas often takes more than just a quick scrub. A professional exterior house washing service removes mould, algae, dirt, and other built-up contaminants from siding, brickwork, and other exterior surfaces using methods suited to each material, helping restore your home’s appearance while reducing the risk of further growth.
Effective Removal Techniques
For small, isolated patches of mould or algae, you can often tackle it yourself. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and spray the affected area. Let it sit for about an hour, then scrub it with a stiff brush and rinse well with clean water. You can also find commercial cleaners at hardware stores. Be careful with high-pressure washers if you don’t have experience, as the strong force can damage paint, strip sealants, and push water into wall cavities, potentially making the moisture problem worse.
Preventative Measures for Homes
The best way to keep mould and algae away is to make your home less appealing to them. Start by fixing any sources of moisture. Repair leaky taps, gutters, and downpipes right away. Improve airflow around your house by trimming back trees and overgrown shrubs that create too much shade and block the wind. Make sure your drainage is good so water doesn’t pool against the foundation. When it’s time to repaint, think about using paint with a mould inhibitor, especially for shaded or damp exterior walls. Regularly cleaning outdoor surfaces also stops these organisms from getting a foothold in the first place.
Staying alert and quickly dealing with moisture issues will help keep your home’s exterior looking great and ensure a healthier living space for everyone inside.
