Algae on Vinyl Siding

You may have noticed a green growth on your vinyl siding or gotten an HOA violation letter notifying you that your siding needs to have the green growth cleaned off. Algae on vinyl siding occurs because organic materials such as dust, dirt, pollen, bird droppings, and spider webs accumulate on the siding and algae uses it as a food source. Let’s discuss how to remove the algae from the siding.

Always test any type of cleaner on a small section of siding to be sure it doesn’t stain, streak, or otherwise damage the siding. A good cleaner to try first is a mixture of 70% water and 30% white vinegar. If this mixture doesn’t remove all of the algae, try a stronger solution using oxygen bleach.  It’s a powdered substance that you mix with water. Mix it according to the directions on the box. The oxygen bleach will clean the vinyl without damaging your landscaping. You may also be able to find some environmentally friendly cleansers at a local home improvement store. Look for ones that are specially formulated for use on vinyl siding.

Use a soft cloth, sponge or scrub brush. Start at the top and work your way down, rinsing sections as you go. Be sure not to spray water up into the siding. It could go behind the siding and cause damage. You could use a power washer, however some manufacturers recommend against them. If you do choose to use one, use caution when spraying around openings like windows, doors, and plumbing connections.

If you find that the algae isn’t coming off of the siding, then the algae may be mold. Mold can grow when there is an ongoing issue with water leaks or improper drainage. There could be a faulty drainpipe or leaking gutters. Have the repairs and/or adjustments made first, and then the mold removal can begin. I would advise consulting a professional because mold can be difficult to remove and often requires the use of harsh chemicals.

If you’re ever not sure how to tackle a problem, please contact us. We’re glad to come out and give you a free quote!