Use your typical D.I.Y. home cleaning agents like bleach or laundry detergent. These chemicals are the best how to remove mold from sidewalk.
Sidewalks are typically made of concrete, and this material can be a breeding ground for mold in the right conditions.Shaded and cool areas are susceptible to this fungus outbreak.
Learn how to spot the signs to prevent further problems.
Causes Of Mold On Sidewalks
Concrete can retain moisture in cool conditions, and the dust layer that settles on top is a perfect food source for mold. It’s essential to understand which conditions promote mold growth so you can check for the fungus.
Humidity
Like the previous point, concrete can’t insulate from moisture, and sidewalks are made of concrete. Whatever builds up from the environment will stick to your walls.
Winter months are usually the worst. Without snow, the cool weather makes condensation form on the sidewalk, and this moisture is perfect for mold.
Liquid water intrusion
Cracks on the pavement provide easier access for water to infiltrate your concrete. If the sidewalk is in a shaded area, the moisture will remain in the concrete.
What About Efflorescence?
Green mold or black mold usually forms on sidewalks. These fungi can make the walkway slippery and cause respiratory problems.
It’s no wonder people fear mold, but sometimes the things growing on the pavement may not be too severe.
Watch out for efflorescence, it can look so much like white mold but it’s harmless. This layer is just the salts and minerals left by evaporated water.
If you see any white spots, test them by spraying water. If the substance dissolves, then you have efflorescence.
What Cleaning Materials Can Kill Mold?
You can use typical home cleaning agents to remove mold. The process is similar to cleaning a patio.
Here is a guide on cleaning mold in a concrete patio. Just look in your kitchen or bathroom cabinets, and you have everything you need.
1. Bleach
This common chemical can clean all stains at home, and that includes mold. Bleach can kill mold down to its roots.
It will also prevent mold from growing back. Match it with some scrubbing.
2. Laundry detergent
This cleaning agent is an even better option than bleach because it can be soaked into the concrete and clean the sidewalk better.
Usually, it’s a wise choice to mix bleach and laundry detergent for the best cleaning result.
3. White vinegar
White vinegar is a popular cleaning agent choice because it’s less toxic and better for the environment. Use it the same way you would the other cleaning materials, and it will prevent spores from growing again.
Step-By-Step Process On Removing Mold From The Sidewalk
Cleaning a sidewalk is simple once you have the materials you need. It’s easy if the path is made of concrete.
Here is a guide on how to remove mold from concrete. Now here are tips for cleaning your sidewalk:
Method #1. Pressure washer
The force from the water will remove mold from the roots. It’s also less tiring than having to scrub the area.
Step #1. Put mold killer in the tank
You need to reinforce the water with some chemicals. You could D.I.Y. cleaning agents or store-bought chemicals like Zep or Mold Armor.
Step #2. Spray the sidewalk with cleaner
Use a low-pressure nozzle and run the spray across the pavement. Let the cleaner sit for 10 minutes, so it gets absorbed.
Step #3. Rinse the sidewalk
Use a high-pressure nozzle with a wide fan. Rinse off the chemical with a waving motion.
Method #2. D.I.Y. cleaning agents
Bleach, laundry detergent, and white vinegar can clean your concrete well and prevent mold from growing back.
Step #1. Remove the mold
Use a hose and scrubber to remove as much visible mold as possible. Less mold will allow the chemicals to clean more efficiently.
Use protective equipment while you are doing this.
Step #2. Apply the cleaning agent
Mix the vinegar, bleach, or detergent with a gallon of water, and scrub it onto your sidewalk. Leave the solution to soak if you have severe mold stains.
Remember that it’s best to use bleach and laundry detergent together to make sure the concrete absorbs the chemicals.
Step #3. Rinse the solution off
Use the hose to rinse your sidewalk. You can leave a thin layer of bleach and water to protect the concrete from future mold growth.
How To Prevent Mold Growth
Now that you’ve removed the mold, you need to ensure it doesn’t come back. The best way to protect your sidewalk is to avoid moisture.
Trim trees or bushes that might cover the pathway too much. Make sure the concrete gets the right amount of sun.
Always check if there are cracks on the ground. Water can seep into these holes if they’re left unattended.
You can also treat the pathway with an acrylic sealer for more protection against mold growth.
Conclusion
Mold on the pavement can be a problem. It looks unpleasant, it’s slippery, and it could cause respiratory concerns or allergic reactions.
You can protect yourself when you know how to remove mold from sidewalk. It’s a simple process that you can do with affordable materials.