CALL
(904)622-8466 for your free consultation or click here
for our
online request form.
 |
 |
What Jacksonville
Homeowners Should Know About Exterior Mildew
At one
time or another, most Jacksonville homeowners are
faced with dark discolorations on their bricks,
painted surfaces, sidewalks, etc. Because this
discoloration appears gradually, many homeowners
believe it to be a natural accumulation of dirt and
other air borne particles. The fact is, these
discolorations are actually a living, growing
organism-- mildew.
Mildew is caused by the spores of molds. These
spores are always present in the air. Given the
proper environment, mildew will grow on virtually
any surface. Florida's semi-tropical climate
provides the proper temperature range, as well as
the level of moisture mildews require to thrive.
Most building materials, e.g., wood, bricks, paint,
caulking, etc. contain organic materials. On the
surfaces of these materials, mildew finds the
nutrients it needs.
Mildew requires a temperature range of 40 to 90
degrees, sufficient moisture, and nutrients to grow.
Air borne contaminants, such as dirt and dust,
combined with Florida's sub-tropical climate, make
mildew growth an inescapable fact of life.
Mildew is a fungus which consumes organic materials.
Because paint (as well as most construction
materials) contain organic compounds, mildew growth
can be destructive to these materials.
In addition to these destructive qualities, mildew
can also pose a safety risk when it accumulates on
walking surfaces, such as sidewalks and decks. When
wet, mildew can be extremely slippery.
Regularly removing mildew is a necessary step to
protect the integrity of your home's exterior and
preventing extensive and expensive damages to paint,
siding, fascia boards, and bricks. Regular cleanings
will also remove the dirt and other contaminants on
which mildew depends for nutrition. As well as
preventing damage to these surfaces, such cleaning
will also improve the short-term appearance of your
home.
While effectively removing mildew is not a
complicated process, it does require the proper
equipment, cleaning agents, and knowledge.
Because the mold spores are microscopic, removing
visible mildew is only part of the solution.
Residual mildew, as well as mold spores, must be
killed for an effective cleaning job.
While a pressure washer can be used to clean painted
surfaces, the most effective method utilizes
chemical cleaning agents and a low pressure process.
A chemical injector attached to the pressure washer
allows for rapid and thorough application of the
cleaning solution.
The most common cleaning solutions use chlorine
bleach to kill mildew and mold, and a detergent to
loosen dirt. The solution should be applied and
allowed to activate for a period of 10 to 15
minutes, and then the surface should be thoroughly
rinsed.
Additional applications of the solution may be
necessary, particularly in areas with heavy mildew
growth. A pump up sprayer can be used to treat small
areas with a more concentrated solution.
High pressure water will remove most visible dirt
and mildew. However, pressurized water will not kill
mildew, nor the mold spores which cause it.
If you
are looking for a painting contractor in
Jacksonville then please call us today at
(904)622-8466 or click on the button below:
 |
 |