Mold and algae will appear as green streaks or blotches on your vinyl siding usually first appearing on the north facing side. This is the side that has the prevailing amount of shade and moisture. It is the same reason that moss grows on the north side of trees.
The wrong way to wash green siding is to use high pressure. Excessive pressure can scar and mark up the siding has it removes oxidation. Too much pressure can also force water in behind the siding through the bottom lip or overlap areas.
Vinyl siding cleaning the correct way is to use the methods suggested by the Vinyl Siding Institute (VSI). They recommend using a mix of bleach and soap along with the right amount of pressure. How much pressure? Well as an experienced contractor, with the right chemicals, 500 psi or even less can be used. This is known in the industry as soft washing and it is very effective.
A reputable vinyl siding cleaning company will rely heavily on their chemicals to do most of the work. Not only does this make the job easier and remove all the green algae, it also kills the algae so it does not return in a short time. By just peeling the algae off with high pressure or hot water without the use of chemicals, the algae is not dead and it will grow back in full force in no time at all.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
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