Siding is a popular option for home exteriors because it’s affordable and durable. However, it’s also susceptible to mold and mildew, which can lower your home’s curb appeal and, if left untreated, will require siding repair or replacement. Below is a beginner’s guide to how mold accumulates on siding and what you can do to prevent it.

How to Deal With Moldy Siding

Understand the Difference Between Mold & Mildew

Mold and mildew are both fungi that thrive in moist environments, but they look different and have unique growth patterns. Mildew appears as powdery white or gray splotches, or as yellow spots that eventually turn brown, while mold may be black, green, gray, or brown and have a musty odor. Mildew grows flat along the surface of the affected material, making it relatively easy to remove, but mold penetrates beneath the surface, so if you have a significant spread of mold on your house, siding repair or replacement may be the only way to get rid of it.

Prevent Mold From Growing on Your Siding

Because excess moisture encourages mold growth, make sure your drain pipes and gutters are in good condition, so they direct rainwater away from your siding. Lack of sunlight is another risk factor for mold growth, so if your house gets a lot of shade, you might want to consider having the surrounding trees cut back or removed. Mold also feeds on dirt, so cleaning your home’s exterior regularly can prevent mold accumulation. Ask your local siding repair expert to recommend products that can remove mold and prevent it from coming back.

Based in Birch Run, MI, Brown Home Improvement Roofing & Remodeling serves all of mid-Michigan, including Clio, Corunna, and the surrounding communities. When you need a reliable remodeling contractor for siding repair, roof installation, storm damage repair, or other home remodeling projects, you can count on their experienced team for quality service and craftsmanship. Call (800) 770-6561 today for a free estimate, and visit their website to learn more about their services.