It’s no small task to remove mold from your siding, but it’s possible with the right tools and a lot of determination. Mold can grow just about anywhere that moisture is present, and the exterior of your home is exposed to moisture daily. This sneaky fungus might be growing on the visible outer side of your siding, but it can become much more dangerous when it grows underneath your siding.
There are several approaches to removing mold from siding, and what works in one home might not be right for another home. Here’s a look at some of the most effective ways to get rid of the mold on (or under) your siding.
Pressure Washing
One of the easiest options to remove mold from your siding is pressure washing it off. You can rent pressure washers from your local home improvement store or borrow one from a neighbor if you don’t have one of your own.
If you choose to use a pressure washer to remove mold, take extra care. Extreme water pressure applied incorrectly can cause serious damage to the siding, including dents, holes, and even removing the paint. Test your method on an inconspicuous area of siding first before moving to more obvious areas.
To start, you’ll need a mixture of hot water and a mold-killing agent. For the best results, use a cleaning solution that is made specifically for removing mold from the siding. Most of these cleaners will also keep mold from growing again for an extended period.
Once you’ve mixed your cleaner and added it to the pressure washer, you’re ready to clean. Set the pressure washer at the widest setting and step back so you’re standing several feet away. You can move forward and side to side as needed. Point the nozzle directly at the siding rather than at an angle.
It’s especially important not to spray water up at the siding since this can cause moisture to work its way underneath your siding and create a perfect environment for mold to grow hidden from view. Keep that nozzle straight ahead and work your way in sections left to right, top to bottom.
While mold might not be covering every inch of your siding, it’s a good idea to wash all of the siding anyway. Otherwise, you’ll end up with a very clean and shiny section and the rest of your home will look very dirty.
Pressure washing your siding is a great way to spruce up your house and improve your curb appeal, and it will help prevent mold from growing in the future since mold feeds on dirt and grime accumulation on the siding.
Homemade Vinegar Solution
Most commercial mold removing solutions are chemical based. So if you’re looking for something a little more environmentally friendly, try making your cleaning solution at home using one part distilled white vinegar to three parts hot water.
This cleaner is safe for most types of siding and is tough on mold. Keep in mind that this option isn’t as hands-off as pressure washing. With this cleaning solution, you’ll need to apply a serious amount of elbow grease. Find a good scrub brush and get to work, and be prepared for it to take a while. Just be sure to wear rubber gloves and protect your skin, face, and eyes from exposure to mold and vinegar.
Bleach
If the vinegar isn’t cutting it, but you still want to go with a homemade cleaning solution, bleach might be your best bet. Just make sure you remove every trace of the vinegar first since bleach and vinegar together make an extremely poisonous substance. Mix one gallon of hot water with a quart of bleach and a cup of powdered laundry detergent.
Use gloves and protect your clothes and other surfaces from drips. Use a soft sponge or a gentle scrub brush to work the mold off of the siding. Rinse the surface thoroughly after you finish.
Bleach can be an extremely powerful mold removal agent, but it comes with its share of hazards. It might not be safe on all types of siding, so be sure to test it in a less visible area before you move to more obvious areas.
How To Remove Mold Underneath Siding
It can be difficult to tell if you have mold growing underneath your siding because you can’t exactly look at it. But if you have mold on the outside, there’s a chance that some of it worked its way underneath.
If you do find that you have mold growing underneath your siding, there’s not a lot you can do on your own. Consult a mold removal specialist if you’re fully committed to keeping your existing siding. But the most effective method would be replacing your siding with something that will keep the moisture out more effectively and protect your home from future mold problems.
Whichever step you take, it’s important to address mold growth quickly. Mold feeds on organic materials like wood and drywall, so with enough time, the mold can compromise the structural integrity of your home. This can cause safety issues for your family and might also cause respiratory problems, allergies, and asthma.
M&M Gutters & Exteriors Will Replace Your Siding
As you can see, it’s not easy to remove mold from your siding. So if you’re ready to ditch your mold-infested siding and upgrade to something new and fresh, the experts at M&M Gutters & Exteriors are here to help. Our knowledgeable and professional team has decades of industry experience, and no job is too big or little for us.
Our skilled crew is fully licensed and insured. We are committed to delivering high-quality gutters, siding, and service to homes and businesses in Salt Lake, Weber, Davis, Utah, and Summit counties in Utah. Contact us for all of your siding repairs, replacements, and all other needs. We also specialize in custom rain gutters and gutter installation, roofing, and windows.