7. Rinsing It All Away: When The Algae Practically Falls Off
After the waiting period, it’s time to rinse away the solution. Using a garden hose with a spray nozzle, simply rinse the siding starting from the top and working your way down. You’ll be amazed at how the algae practically falls off the siding.
The gentle pressure from the hose is usually sufficient to remove the loosened algae, leaving your siding looking clean and fresh. For particularly stubborn spots, a second application and rinse may be necessary, but in most cases, a single treatment will suffice.
8. Safety Rules: Protecting Plants, Pets, And Your Paint
While the cleaning cocktail is relatively mild, it’s still important to take precautions to protect your plants, pets, and any delicate paintwork. Before applying the solution, wet down any plants near the base of your house to minimize the absorption of the solution.
Keep pets away from the area until it is thoroughly rinsed and dried. If you have sensitive paint, consider testing a small area first, as mentioned previously, to ensure no damage occurs.
9. How Long The Results Last And When To Repeat The Trick
The results of this cleaning method can last anywhere from six months to a year, depending on the climate and the specific conditions around your home. In areas with high humidity or lots of shade, you might find algae returning sooner.
It’s a good idea to inspect your siding periodically and repeat this cleaning process as needed. Regular maintenance will help keep your home looking its best and prevent the algae from taking hold again.
10. Easy Preventive Habits To Keep Algae From Coming Back
To prevent algae from returning, consider a few simple maintenance habits. Trim back any trees or bushes that are creating excess shade and preventing sunlight from reaching your siding. Ensure your gutters and downspouts are functioning properly to direct water away from your home.
Regularly clean your siding with a mild detergent and water to remove any dirt or organic material that could feed algae growth. These preventive measures can significantly reduce the frequency with which you need to employ the vinegar solution.
11. When This Hack Isn’t Enough And What To Try Next
In some cases, particularly if the algae growth is severe or the siding has been neglected for a long time, this simple trick might not be enough. If the algae is not responding to the vinegar solution, you might need to try a more robust commercial cleaner designed specifically for siding.
Consider consulting with a professional if you are unsure about the condition of your siding or if you are concerned about causing damage. In extreme cases, power washing by a professional might be necessary, but this should be a last resort due to the potential for damage to the siding.
