You might be used to combatting mold in your shower or behind your kitchen sink, but when's the last time you checked on your home's siding? These exterior surfaces are especially prone to mold growth, and this can have a significant impact on your property's curb appeal. To prevent fungi from taking root, take advantage of the following three tips.

How to Avoid Mold Growth on Your Home's Siding

1. Inspect Your Drainage System

One of the most common culprits of fungal growth on siding is faulty gutters. If there are any clogs, cracks, holes, or sagging parts, water will seep out or spill over the sides of the gutters, hitting your siding on the way down. This can cause mold growth near the gutters as well as on the siding around the base of your home. You can prevent the discoloration by cleaning out and repairing your drainage system as necessary.

2. Keep Your Landscape in Check

If trees surround your home, mold growth may be a direct result of their organic matter. Many trees contain sap, which can drip on your roof and siding and trap bacteria and moisture, creating the perfect conditions for mold growth. By trimming branches that hang over or brush against your house, you can prevent this process before it begins.

3. Adjust Your Irrigation System

Your sprinklers may cause mold growth around the base and lower half of your home's siding. In an attempt to water a wide swath of grass, the heads might spray water onto your siding. If this happens daily, the moisture may not have enough time to evaporate, which can lead to mold and mildew growth. By turning your sprinkler heads or adjusting their range, you can keep your siding clean and dry.

If you've tried these tips and are still dealing with green, orange, or black splotches, it might be time to replace your home's siding. Countywide Roofing of Elyria, OH, is used to replacing siding every 20 to 40 years, depending on the material. With their decades of experience in residential and commercial properties, you can trust that your home is in capable hands. To learn more about their other offerings, including roofing and gutter work, visit the website. You can also call (440) 246-3328 today to arrange for an initial appointment.