Is mold or mildew creeping across your property’s exterior, staining surfaces and posing health risks? Pressure washing can be a powerful solution.
Living in the Northeast comes with its fair share of seasonal challenges, and one of the most common issues property owners face is the appearance of mold and mildew on exterior surfaces. These unsightly fungal growths thrive in shady, humid environments and often manifest as streaks or patches of green, black, or brown discoloration. If left untreated, they can do more than just affect curb appeal—they can also pose health risks to residents and visitors.
When mold or mildew appears, many property owners turn to power washing services. However, while pressure washing is a great way to remove visible signs of these fungi, it’s not a permanent solution. Mold and mildew grow from microscopic spores that can remain on surfaces even after a thorough washing. To completely eliminate them, a more comprehensive approach is required.
In this blog, we’ll discuss how to effectively remove mold and mildew from exterior surfaces, the best practices for pressure washing, and why it’s important to work with experienced professionals like A.G. Williams Painting Company.
What Causes Mold & Mildew to Grow?
Mold and mildew thrive in moist, humid climates, making the Northeast an ideal environment for their growth. They are particularly drawn to shaded areas of buildings where sunlight doesn’t easily reach, such as north-facing walls, under eaves, or behind dense landscaping. Moisture from rain, condensation, or poor drainage can linger on exterior surfaces, creating the perfect conditions for these fungi to spread.
Properties with wood, vinyl, or composite siding are even more susceptible, as these materials can trap moisture, allowing spores to settle and multiply. Without regular maintenance and cleaning, small patches of mold or mildew can quickly spread, leaving buildings looking unkempt and potentially leading to long-term damage.
The Health Risks of Mold & Mildew
Beyond their unpleasant appearance, mold and mildew can have serious health implications if not addressed. Prolonged exposure to these fungi can trigger allergies, respiratory issues, and even asthma attacks, particularly in individuals who are sensitive or have pre-existing conditions. By removing mold and mildew from a building’s exterior, you’re not only protecting your property but also safeguarding the health and well-being of the occupants.
The Right Way to Remove Mold & Mildew
While pressure washing is a popular method for cleaning exterior surfaces, it’s not enough to completely eradicate mold and mildew. These fungi grow from resilient spores that can remain on surfaces even after a thorough wash. To truly eliminate them and prevent regrowth, a fungicidal wash should be incorporated into the cleaning process.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to removing mold and mildew effectively:
- Prepare Your Cleaning Solution: Mix one part fungicidal wash, one part bleach, and 10 parts water in a hand-pump garden sprayer. This combination is highly effective at killing mold and mildew spores.
- Work in Manageable Sections: Mentally divide the exterior into smaller sections. Focusing on one section at a time will ensure thorough cleaning and prevent the solution from drying before you can rinse it off.
- Apply the Cleaning Solution: Spray the fungicidal wash onto the surface, making sure to cover the affected areas evenly. Allow the solution to sit for at least 30 seconds to loosen the mold and mildew. Keep in mind, you can find pressure washers on Amazon or even the Sherwin-Williams website.
- Rinse with Low Pressure: Use a low-pressure spray setting on your pressure washer to rinse off the solution. Avoid using high pressure, as it can damage the siding or paint.
- Repeat as Needed: If stubborn patches of mold or mildew remain, strengthen your cleaning solution and apply it again. A long-handled scrub brush can also be helpful for tougher spots.
Pressure washing can be a powerful tool for cleaning a property, but it must be done carefully to avoid causing damage. Many inexperienced pressure washing systems or services make the mistake of using too much pressure, which can strip paint, create deep grooves in siding, and even damage the structural integrity of the exterior. Always do as much research as you can if you want to take on the task yourself. We like these articles from HGTV and Better Homes & Gardens, though both are more geared toward homeowners.
For property and building managers, especially those overseeing high-rises, professional pressure washing services are highly recommended to ensure safety, compliance, and quality results. Working with an insured company like A.G. Williams Painting provides peace of mind, protecting both your property and those on-site.
At A.G. Williams Painting Company, our trained professionals know how to use pressure washers safely and effectively. We adjust the pressure settings based on the surface material and condition of the surface, ensuring a thorough clean without causing damage.
Additional Benefits of Professional Pressure Washing
In addition to removing mold and mildew, pressure washing offers several other benefits:
- Improved Curb Appeal: A clean exterior instantly boosts the appearance of the property, making it look fresh and well-maintained.
- Longer Lifespan for Exterior Surfaces: Regular cleaning removes dirt, debris, and contaminants that can wear down siding, paint, and other materials over time.
- Prepping for Painting: If you’re planning to repaint any exterior surface, pressure washing is an essential first step to ensure the new paint adheres properly.
When you work with A.G. Williams Painting Company, we can also clean decks, walkways, and driveways while we’re there, leaving the entire property looking its best.
Why Choose A.G. Williams Painting Company?
A.G. Williams Painting Company has been serving homeowners in Bronx County, Dutchess County, Putnam County, Rockland County, Westchester County, NY, and Fairfield County, CT, for decades. We pride ourselves on providing expert services with a focus on quality and customer satisfaction.
Our pressure washing services go beyond simply blasting away dirt. We take the time to address the root causes of mold and mildew, using the right cleaning solutions and techniques to ensure the property is truly clean. And if you’re looking to repaint, our professional painters are ready to deliver stunning, long-lasting results.
Don’t let mold and mildew detract from your property’s beauty and safety. Whether you need pressure washing, exterior painting, or both, A.G. Williams Painting Company is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our services.