Hydra Pressure Washing LLC

We really put the pressure on dirt by turning up the heat.

Tag: algae removal

Identifying Stains on Your Siding

Getting stains on your home’s siding is very common, especially without consistent maintenance. Some stains are easily dealt with through a simple wash and others may require much more effort and maintenance. There are different types of stains that find their way onto your siding and in this month’s blog, we will help you identify them and recommend ways on how to deal with them.

Dirt

Dirt is the most basic and common stain that you will find on your siding. This is often due to the elements, such as rain and strong storms that blow loose dirt and mud onto the side of your home. Any landscaping or construction activities can also knock up dirt onto your siding. However, dirt is the least of your concerns and can easily be washed with a garden hose or through a light scrubbing. If there is a more stubborn dirt build up, a quick professional power wash is an effective way to clean your siding. It’s important to prevent build up by setting up a routine cleaning or else it can serve as the basis for algae and even mold or mildew growth.

Algae

Algae is another common stain that you may find on your siding. It is identified by its green color and its origin may vary from region to region. Usually, it’s due to being in close proximity to a body of water and in humid climates. It is known to spread through air-borne spores. Algae also tends to form on the side of your home that receives the least sunlight. Dark and damp conditions allow it to form more easily and quickly. If ignored and left untreated, more dirt can make its way onto your siding, therefore allowing the algae to expand its coverage. To remove the algae, we recommend using a soft washing method – an alternative to power washing that uses a lower powered setting but with the same cleaning agents. Regardless, it’s best to rely on professional services for the safety of your siding and to ensure it is not damaged.

Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew is the worst offender and if you see these on your home’s siding, we recommend seeking professional cleaning services as soon as possible. Mold is identified by its green or black color and mildew can be white, gray, or yellow in color. Similar to algae, they tend to form in areas that receive little to no sunlight and also feed off of dirt, allowing it to further encroach on your siding. Mold and mildew should be dealt with urgency due to the health risks that you can be exposed to. Enlisting professional services is the best and safest solution to rid your home of these hazards!

Conclusion

If dirt, algae, mold, or mildew is spoiling your home’s exterior or interior, you can rely on Hydra Pressure Washing LLC. We provide efficient and effective cleaning services that relieve homeowners of their stress. Our professional power washers will give your home the care and cleanliness it deserves. Don’t wait for your home to be damaged! Act now and make an appointment with us at (410) 360-7887 or visit our website for more information about our services.

The Differences Between Algae and Mold

It’s no secret that, without the proper care, your roof can be left susceptible to a number of harmful substances. And while, regardless of the contaminant, it’s imperative to have it removed for a healthy roof, knowing exactly what you’re dealing with can help you more quickly diagnose the issue and treat it effectively!

Keeping that in mind, algae and mold are two entirely different forms of roof contamination that require specialized treatment to remove. Not only will knowing how they differ help your power washing team more aptly provide a solution, it will also help prevent sickness and contamination of those living within your walls. If you find yourself interested in differentiating these different roof scourges, read on for a few key differences you can keep in mind when determining which alien substance has affected your home’s exterior.

Algae

Algae a commonly occurring moss-like substance that is especially prevalent in more humid climates. The green scourge is notorious for its ability to spread by way of air-borne spores and is noticeably more prevalent on shingles made of asphalt roofing materials. Fortunately for those who are worried their home has been sullied by this pesky plant, the good news is that algae doesn’t necessarily eat its way into your roof much like other contaminants would. This doesn’t change the fact, however, that the notorious black streaks and marks left by algae are an eyesore to any self-respecting homeowner.

Mold

Mold, on the other hand, is an entirely different beast altogether. While it’s not nearly as common as algae, if left untreated long enough, exposure to mold can quickly cause more than aesthetic harm in the form of health problems like asthma, lung infections, and even irritation of the eyes and nose.

One key factor that differentiates mold from algae is its tendency to break into the home and affect your interior. Mold is known for its ability to form in damp and poorly ventilated areas such as attics and basements before spreading to your roof, deck, and siding. If you notice black streaks inside of your home as opposed to strictly outside of it, odds are you’re dealing with mold and need a professional team to take a look fast!

Treatment

As far as prevention is concerned, there’ isn’t much you can do aside from regularly cleaning your roof or maybe investing in zinc strips to inhibit the spread of contaminants. Unfortunately, if you live in an especially humid area, even zinc strips won’t do much to slow the spread of mold or algae. All hope is not lost however! By reaching out to an experienced and professional team of pressure washers, even the deepest ingrained contaminants can be targeted and eradicated! Always be sure to do your homework and research who you’re working with however. The wrong team could actually end up spreading the contaminants and making the problem worse!

Conclusion

When it comes to the health of your roof or your home in general, preventative care simply can’t be beat. Always keep an eye out for red flag signs of both algae and mold such as black stripes across your roof and know what to expect when reaching out for proper care. Not only will you be securing your health and the health of those living in your home, you’ll also be making a significant investment in your home’s curb appeal and property value!