Unsightly Growth
While pesky, unattractive, and downright disgusting, mildew is commonplace for most home and property owners. The elements in the natural world readily produce mildew. But what if you have more than you think you should? Is there a better way to prevent it from growing?
Here’s what you need to know about the causes of mildew, and how to manage (and ideally prevent it) around your home or business.
Too Much Foliage Around Your Exterior
A lack of sunlight can lead to a build-up of mold. Mature vegetation might look great in terms of curb appeal, but it can prevent your exterior from drying properly.
The result is a web of mildew creeping up and over your exterior walls.
A Lack of Maintenance
Throughout the seasons, mildew can flourish if you don’t use some sort of wash to remove it before it becomes a serious problem. If you are washing your exterior any less than twice per year, that could be why you have more mildew then normal.
Ideally, the exterior of your home should be cleaned at least twice per year—in Spring, and in Fall.
You Have Siding
Many homeowners have the incorrect impression that siding is a maintenance free building material, probably because of savvy salespeople who tell them it is! The truth is, mold and algae spores can thrive on siding, particularly if you have wood siding. Spores from trees can float through the air and land on the outside of your home, where they flourish and cause a buildup of mildew.
Siding needs regular cleanings to remain mildew free.
Excess Water
That’s right, water could be ruining the exterior of your home. Whether from a particularly wet climate, an unusually heavy monsoon season, or just from using too much water around the outside of your property, excess water can lead to mildew and mold. Backed up gutters and poor water movement systems could bleed over onto your exterior walls allowing mildew to feed on the moisture.
Preventing the collection of water around and on your home or business can keep mold and mildew from forming.
Poor Air Circulation
Decorations, and once again, that lovely vegetation, can contribute to a lack of airflow throughout the outside of your property.
Maintaining airflow is another important element in preventing mildew.
How to Eliminate Mold and Mildew
Preventative measures are always a good way of reducing mildew and mold throughout your home. While doing basic landscaping around your property is a good place to start, total prevention of this nasty problem comes down to regular maintenance.
