Molds feed off of decaying organic material. Places on the exterior of your house, such as the roof and siding, offer a constant source of food and a surface to grow on. Moldy growth on your home could lead to considerable damage, but you can use these four tips to get rid of the problem.

Sanitizing the Roof and Siding

To remove moss, algae and fungi growing on the roof and siding, it is necessary to kill the growths so they cannot produce new spores. There are commercial products ready-made for this purpose. The concentrated liquids attach to the garden hose. You spray the affected areas according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This allows you to stand on the ground and treat the fungi. The growths should die within a few days of applying the product. For thick areas of growth, a second application might be needed.

Affixing Copper Strips

Copper strips can be attached to the peak of your home’s roof by your roofer. The strips leach a few copper atoms each time it rains. The elemental copper poisons algae and fungi but is not harmful to your lawn. The runoff is collected into your gutters as usual. The strips are not noticeable from the curb.

Replacing Moldy Siding

When mold has penetrated into the siding, it could damage the wood framing of your home. The presence of mold can also trigger an allergic response in everyone who lives in your home. Some companies, like Lifetime Exteriors, know that replacing moldy siding is a good idea for both health and safety reasons. Updating your siding also adds value and aesthetic appeal to your home.

Trimming Nearby Trees

When trees and other shrubs are growing right above or next to your roof and siding, they prevent the shingles and siding from completely drying out after rainy weather. The lingering moisture and relative shade are what allow fungi, moss and algae to thrive. Cutting back the shrubs and tree branches allows for better air circulation and access to sunlight. This could prevent a new infestation of fungi on your roof and siding.

Getting the mold off the roof and siding takes some time, but your efforts will help to safeguard your house and your health. You can also turn to professionals such as your roofer and siding replacement technicians to help you with these important home maintenance actions. Once the mold is gone, you can keep it away with regular tree trimming and the use of copper roof strips.