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Mold on siding: causes and solutions

Where mold on your siding comes from and how to eliminate it long-term with the right washing techniques.

July 24, 20266 min readAqua-Net Team

Why mold grows on your siding

Mold, algae and bacteria develop on exterior siding when they find three elements: moisture, warmth and nutrients. On Montreal's North Shore, these conditions are present much of the year.

Factors that promote growth

  • **Orientation**: North and east-facing walls get less sun and stay damp longer
  • **Vegetation**: Trees and shrubs near the house block light and retain moisture
  • **Drainage**: A poorly sloped grade directs water toward the siding
  • **Gutters**: Overflowing gutters regularly wet the siding
  • **Siding type**: Textured vinyl retains more dirt than smooth vinyl
  • How to recognize the problem

  • Green or black stains on siding
  • Dark streaks under gutters
  • Discolored or stained siding
  • Moss on roof edges
  • The solution: soft washing

    High-pressure washing only addresses the surface — it dislodges visible dirt but doesn't kill organisms at the root. Soft washing, on the other hand, applies a chemical treatment that penetrates siding pores and kills mold, algae and bacteria at the source. Results last much longer — often 2 to 3 years before another treatment is needed.

    Prevention

    After washing, a few simple steps extend results: trim vegetation near the house, repair leaking gutters, check yard drainage and consider installing zinc strips under the roof ridge (zinc leaches with rain and prevents algae growth).

    Conclusion

    Mold on siding is not just an aesthetic problem — it degrades surfaces and can affect air quality. Professional soft washing is the most durable solution. Contact Aqua-Net for a free quote.

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