Green algae likes to grow on vinyl siding that is predominately shady. When a northern exposure or overgrown plants block the sun, the shade prevents rain from drying off your siding quickly. The moist environment gradually allows the algae to spread across exterior walls in greenish-brown patches. You are not helpless against this slow-moving assault of microorganisms. Learning how to remove green algae from vinyl siding is as simple as washing it off. The extent of the growth will determine how much scrubbing or spraying is necessary and the strength of the cleaner needed.

Before discussing the best vinyl siding cleaning practices, it’s a good idea to know why the vinyl siding is turning green. The growth is most commonly found on the north side of your house due to the shade or an overflowing gutter. Water splashing down the wall because of a broken gutter or downspout will encourage algae. Trees and shrubs growing too close to the house could cast shade that invites algae to take hold. Trimming them back will allow more sunlight to hit the vinyl siding and keep it dry. If you notice damage while you’re cleaning your siding, reach out to the vinyl siding replacement experts at PJ Fitzpatrick today for an estimate.

How to Remove Green Algae From Vinyl Siding Directions

1. Evaluate the extent of the problem. Faint growth may likely wipe off with a soapy rag and a rinse. Thicker growth will warrant the application of a stronger cleaning solution.
2. Mix some cleaning solution in a bucket.
   1. Dish soap and water works well for mild algae growth.
   2. For thicker algae growth, make a stronger solution with powdered laundry detergent and water.
   3. Use a solution made from oxygen bleach for heavy growth. Oxygen bleach is gentler on the environment.
   4. For the heaviest stains, dilute chlorine bleach with water and fill a small spray bottle. You will only use it in small amounts due to its toxicity to the landscaping.
3. Use the garden hose to spray grass and plants around your house with water. The layer of water will shield them somewhat from contact with the cleaning solution.
4. Fill a pump pressure sprayer with nontoxic cleaning solution for spraying cleaner on hard-to-reach areas.
5. Leave some cleaning solution in a bucket for close-up work.
6. To continue learning how to remove green algae from vinyl siding, begin applying cleaning solution to the siding.
7. Use a sprayer to reach the upper areas with algae growth.
8. If using a ladder, make sure that it is stable.
9. For lower areas of siding, use the cloth and bucket to apply the solution. Wipe on the cleaner with a microfiber cloth or pole brush with microfiber head.
10. Let the cleaner stand on the siding for 10 to 15 minutes.
11. Starting at the top and working your way down, start rinsing.
12. Use the garden hose spray nozzle or pressure washer to rinse. A pressure washer will strip off heavier layers of algae.
13. If you see any stubborn algae, spray and wipe it again.
14. Treat the toughest patches with a little bleach if necessary.
15. Rinse again wherever you had to wash a second time.
16. Spray the grass and plants around the house again to rinse off cleaner residue.
17. Perform any maintenance tasks needed to solve problems causing the algae growth.