The Uninvited Guests: How Grime and Green Threaten Your Siding
Dirt and algae do more than make your home look ugly. These sneaky invaders can actually damage your siding considerably to the point that it makes your home vulnerable to the elements. Because cleaning the exterior is a task that you may not prioritize, these signs can creep up without you even realizing what is happening. To stop damage in its tracks, you must know what to look for so that you can act quickly to protect your home.
Recognizing Surface Discoloration and Stains
The most obvious sign of trouble is discoloration spots on the siding. When dirt and airborne pollutants settle there, the rain does not necessarily wash them away. They begin to adhere to these surfaces and create a dull and grimy film. This residue typically appears as a dark, dusty layer, often collecting more heavily on the north side of the house or in shaded areas where the sun cannot dry it out quickly.
Additionally, algae, which is a type of simple plant, loves moisture and shade. So, it will present as streaks or patches of green, dark green, or even black growth. If you notice a streaky pattern running down from the edges of your windows or trim, you are likely seeing the result of water runoff carrying spores and dirt, which makes a perfect environment for algae and growth to thrive. Because these stains can trap moisture against the siding material, neglecting them means that you are encouraging deeper issues to develop, which will be extremely expensive to fix. This will especially be the case if mold growth develops. You may have to pay for mold remediation services in addition to procuring new siding, and that can potentially run you in the tens and thousands of dollars.
Physical Deterioration and Material Breakdown
When you leave dirt and algae on the siding for long periods, they will cause the material to break down. This is because the algae seeps into the microscopic pours, and the materials erode. Wood and composite are especially vulnerable. If the problem persists, warping and cracking can result. This is especially the case with vinyl and wood siding. As water leaks through the side, the structural integrity of your home is threatened.
Impact on Energy Efficiency and Hidden Issues
You might not think that the breakdown of your siding can affect your electricity bill, but excessive organic growth can have an impact on the energy efficiency of your home. Dark-colored patches of algae and dirt absorb a considerable amount of solar heat, making your HVAC system work harder to keep your home cool. The harder your system works to reach temperature targets, the more power it draws, which will cause your electricity bills to spike.
To keep these problems at bay, you must make washing the exterior of your home a top priority. This way, dirt and algae do not even have a chance to settle and cause issues. To protect your Seattle, WA home, call Clean425 for house washing services, and our team will help you make sure your home exterior remains clean and in good shape.
