Exterior House Mould – Which is Worst?

When it comes to the exterior of your home, maintaining its aesthetic and structural integrity is essential. Unfortunately, various types of mould can pose a threat to both. Green, black, and red mould are the common culprits that can grow on your home exteriors and potentially damage its surfaces.

Green Mould

Green mould, often referred to as algae, is the most common type of mould found on houses. It thrives in areas with high moisture levels and shade. This is very common on Wellington houses. Unlike other mould types, green mould is not as harmful to your health, but it can significantly impact the aesthetics of your home’s exterior.

Green mould appears as a fuzzy, greenish film on surfaces. It spreads across roofs, siding, and other outdoor structures, causing discolouration and an unkempt appearance. Green mould feeds on moisture and organic matter. Overhanging trees, lots of shade and poor drainage around the house all encourage green mould growth.

This is the easiest to remove and our exterior soft-wash removes it easily from house facades, patios and decks – making them look fresh & new!

Black Mould

Black mould, also known as Stachybotrys chartarum, is a more concerning type of mould due to its potential health risks. It can grow on both the exterior and interior of buildings, typically in areas with high humidity and poor ventilation.

Black mould appears as black or dark green patches that often have a slimy texture. Unfortunately, it can cause structural damage and pose health hazards, especially to those with allergies, asthma, or weakened immune systems.

Black mould thrives in damp, dark, and humid conditions. Proper ventilation and reducing moisture buildup are crucial for prevention. Removing black mould requires caution and protective gear, as disturbing it can release harmful spores.

We use a spray that is a chemical detergent blend on all surfaces. This breaks down mould, mildew, lichen or dirty stains and then completely removes them. It also slows their return or regrowth.

Red Mould

Red mould, also known as artillery fungus or Sphaerobolus, is the most damaging and challenging type of mould to deal with. Unlike green and black mould, red mould’s appearance is less common, but its impact can be devastating.

Red mould appears as tiny red or orange specks on surfaces, resembling small spores or seeds. It often appears in mulch, but it can also grow on the sides of houses too. What makes red mould particularly harmful is its ability to shoot its spores several feet away, causing staining on nearby surfaces.

Red mould is attracted to decaying organic matter and thrives in moist conditions. It’s extremely difficult to remove due to its unique spore-shooting mechanism. Attempting to remove red mould without professional help can exacerbate the issue, spreading the spores and causing more staining. To effectively remove red mould, it’s essential to hire experienced professionals who have the knowledge and tools to safely and thoroughly eliminate it.

With our chemical blends, protective gear and expertise when it comes to dealing with red mould, we can safely and effectively remove red mould in a way that won’t have it returning anytime soon. However, the best way to avoid the growth of red mould – is to wash your house more frequently – preventing any chance for it to grow in the first place.

Understanding the different types of mould that can grow on houses is crucial for effective prevention and removal. While green and black mould can be managed with proper maintenance and cleaning, red mould requires the expertise of professional house washers to ensure complete removal and prevent further damage.

If your home is in an area that is shaded, near lots of trees & foliage and is prone to humidity, then regular inspections, good ventilation, and timely intervention are key to maintaining the beauty and integrity of your home’s exterior.

Got more questions about the mould on your property? Give us a call!