06 Jun Why is one side of my house moldy?
Do you find mold growing on just one side of your Virginia home’s exterior? That’s not unusual. Whatever type of siding you have, it’s not uncommon to find mold mainly growing on one side, usually the north-facing wall. There are several reasons for this, and, importantly, you’ll want to remove the growth. Ignoring it could lead to costly repairs later on.
Shade and Damp
Mold, algae, and mildew are attracted to shade and dampness, which tend to be on north-facing exteriors. Trees and shrubs will block sunlight from reaching your home’s north wall, and sunlight helps to keep things dry.
Some homeowners are surprised to suddenly see mold, algae, or mildew growing on once clean walls. If you see growth on walls that were once pristine, look to see what’s blocking the sunlight from reaching the walls. The culprits are usually shrubs and trees that create shade and trap moisture where the sun once kept things dry.
Clean Things Up
You’ll want to keep the walls clean, not allowing the mold, algae, or mildew to grow and spread. If you do regular cleaning, it should come off easily with water and soap using a soft-bristle brush or power washer. Tip: There are specialty products for exterior mold and mildew removal you can purchase at your local home improvement stores.
Depending on the extent of the growth, it might be better to hire professional power washers. They have essential expertise, which means they know what products to use and how to remove the growth correctly, depending on the type of siding. Misusing a power washer can cause injury and damage to the siding, turning a cleaning project into a repair job. It’s typically a job for someone with professional experience.
Lastly, consider keeping the shrubs and trees on your northside trimmed just enough to allow sunlight to reach the walls, keeping things dry.
We are happy to evaluate your power washing needs to see if Home Works Painting can help.
FAQ
Why is mold only appearing on one side of my house?
Mold often grows on one side of a house due to higher moisture levels, which can be caused by factors such as poor sunlight exposure, inadequate ventilation, or persistent dampness from rain or landscaping. The shady side of a home tends to dry out more slowly, creating an ideal environment for mold to thrive.
Can lack of sunlight contribute to mold growth on my siding or walls?
Yes, areas of your house that receive less sunlight are more prone to mold. Sunlight naturally helps to dry out surfaces and inhibits mold growth, so mold is more likely to develop on the side of your house that stays shaded for most of the day.
How do vegetation and landscaping affect mold growth on my home’s exterior?
Overhanging trees, dense bushes, or climbing plants can trap moisture against your home, block sunlight, and limit airflow. This creates a damp, shaded environment that encourages mold to grow on siding or walls.
What role does ventilation play in preventing mold on my house?
Proper ventilation is crucial for reducing moisture buildup. Poor airflow allows dampness to linger, especially after rain or snow, making it easier for mold to develop. Ensuring that vents are unobstructed and that air can circulate freely helps keep surfaces dry.
How can I prevent mold from returning to one side of my house?
To prevent mold recurrence, address moisture sources by trimming back vegetation, improving drainage around your foundation, and ensuring gutters and downspouts are clear. Increase sunlight exposure where possible and maintain good airflow by keeping vents open and unobstructed. Regularly inspect for leaks or water accumulation and promptly repair any issues.
Mike Katounas is the owner of Home Works Painting, a painting business in Northern Virginia. He has over 15 years of experience in residential interior and exterior painting, drywall installation/repair, carpentry, wallpaper removal, power washing, commercial painting, color consultation, and staining/sealing. Their service areas include Chantilly, Fairfax, Herndon, Oakton, Reston. Mike takes pride in his work, and he always follows a strict code of conduct that includes the use of quality paint, a clean workspace, and an honest, respectful approach to his customers.
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