Make sure no vines or tree branches are touching your wall and allow direct sunlight to hit it. These are the best ways on how to prevent mold on vinyl siding.
This material is becoming famous among homeowners because of its aesthetic and reasonable price. However, it can be prone to water damage and mold formation when it’s not cared for properly.
What Is Vinyl Siding?
This material is a second coating for your house above the original walls of your home. It’s made of Polyvinyl Chloride (P.V.C.), and it’s one of the most affordable siding materials.
It’s low maintenance, and it’s easy to install. That’s why several homeowners love using vinyl siding for their outside walls.
Vinyl siding also doesn’t need painting, so it’s more cost-efficient than other materials. The shades are baked into the sheets so they won’t come off easily.
These sheets come in beige or pastel colors, so it’s a good choice for homes. Some manufacturers are also developing richer colors for different buildings.
Causes Of Mold On Vinyl Siding
The downside to vinyl siding, though, is that it’s prone to water damage. This problem happens when owners don’t care for the material properly. The moisture from the damage will allow mold to form, and it could be risky for your family’s health.
Lack of sunlight
Constant shade can allow moisture to saturate into your vinyl. This moisture is the perfect breeding ground for mold and other rot.
Tree or vine sap
Planting trees too close to your sidings can cause future problems. The aerosols released by these plants will accumulate on your wall, and the mold spores will feed on the organic material.
Too much moisture
Vinyl siding is generally waterproof, but if the water sits on the surface too long, it can seep through the gaps in your material.
What To Do Once You Spot Mold Infestation
Once you notice signs of mold, you need to determine how it formed and fix the problems.
1. Check the drain pipes and rain gutters
If you notice any drips on these pipes, you need to de-clog all the accumulated debris. Sometimes, the source could be on your roof, and it trickled down into your sidings.
Get professional help for a damaged roof. Here’s a guide on prices for roof repair.
2. Inspect your ventilation ducts
The steam from these ducts will allow mold to thrive. Always check that there’s no condensation in the exhaust.
3. Monitor your sprinklers
Maybe you installed the sprinklers too close to your wall, and now the constant moisture allowed mold to grow. Do the proper repairs for your sprinklers and make sure they face away from the walls.
Step-By-Step Process On Removing Mold From Vinyl Siding
Now that you’ve fixed the leak problem, you need to remove the mold from your walls. It’s a quick process that needs simple chemicals. Remember to use gloves, a mask, and goggles to protect yourself from the flying spores.
Step #1. Wash the area
Use a pressure washer or garden hose to wash off loose dirt.
Step #2. Apply a cleaning solution
You can use commercial cleaning products, or you can make your own at home! The most popular cleaning agents for mold are:
- Dish soap
- Oxygen bleach
- White vinegar
- Regular bleach
Remember to dilute these products with water before applying them to your siding.
Step #3. Scrub the area
Use a soft-bristled brush or soft cloth and remove all the visible mold.
Step #4. Rinse the area
Use your hose to wash off the cleaning agent. Leave your siding out to dry in the sun and you’re done.
How To Prevent Mold Formation
The best thing a homeowner can do is keep their sidings safe from water damage and mold! Here are some tips to help you.
1. Have direct sunlight
Mold loves damp and dark places, so counter that by keeping your sidings under the sun. High temperatures can kill spores that settle on your walls. Here’s a guide on “what temperature does mold die.”
2. Trim the trees and bushes
The sap from these plants can create a haven for mold spores, and keeping your garden clean can ensure direct sunlight exposure on your sidings.
3. Have a regular cleaning schedule
Do cleaning maintenance every few months. Use the D.I.Y. cleaning agents you can find at home to save money.
4. Use a mold-resistant cleaner
If you opt for a commercial cleaning agent, go for one that’s mold resistant. It will protect your sidings from spores that are floating around.
5. Remove moss
Moss can grow on your sidings, especially when it’s not tended to regularly. These plants make the structure damp, though, and it can be a breeding ground for mold.
6. Maintain the rain gutters and ventilation ducts
Leaking from these pipes can cause water damage and mold buildup. Check they are in good condition without any cracks.
7. Adjust your sprinklers
Make sure your sprinklers are pointing away from your siding, and don’t install them too near your house.
Conclusion
Vinyl sidings are a great material for your home, but they can be destroyed by a mold infestation. You need to stop this severe situation from happening.
You can keep your walls clean when you know how to prevent mold on vinyl siding. Your lovely home will be protected from mold.