Are you finding odd colored spots on your concrete around your property that aren’t normal? Those spots are most likely mold that has grown over time. While finding mold is concerning, there are measures that can be taken to get rid of it and prevent it from returning in the future.
How to Identify Mold on Concrete
To begin, you should know what mold looks like on concrete to accurately treat it. Due to its porous nature, concrete can trap moisture, leading to the development of mold in its tiny crevices. Mold typically manifests as black or green patches that continually evolve in shape. There is also a musty and damp odor emitted by mold that is often detectable due to the excess moisture.
Mold growth commonly occurs in shaded sections of patios, driveways, sidewalks, and steps where moisture accumulates but struggles to evaporate quickly due to the lack of direct sunlight. Areas shaded by trees, building shadows, or patio roofs create ideal conditions for mold proliferation.
Is Mold on Concrete Dangerous?
The presence of mold does not automatically mean it is dangerous, although it can become dangerous if left untreated for a lengthy period of time. Mold can irritate the eyes, throat, and nose, along with aggravate allergies and cause asthma attacks. In more severe cases, people may react to mold by developing bronchitis and pneumonia, dizziness, migraines, and memory problems.
While physical symptoms may be more noticeable upfront, mold can affect the integrity of the home through structural issues, as well. Because mold contains acid that is harmful to the chemical properties of concrete, it can make concrete even more porous. This is an issue because the more porous the concrete, the more moisture can seep into the concrete. As the concrete continues to be affected by the mold, it will eventually hit the exterior of the home and cause foundational issues.
Can You Pressure Wash Mold?
You may be wondering at this point how you can eradicate mold from your concrete to protect your health and your home. Luckily, you can pressure wash mold. Pressure washing has been proven to be one of the most effective methods to remove mold and mildew from concrete. It uses high pressure settings to quickly remove mold and other debris from concrete surfaces like driveways, sidewalks, and patios.
The Process of Professional Pressure Washing
Professional pressure washers know exactly how to do the job so it is completed quickly and effectively. Hiring professionals will also save you the time and effort of doing it yourself. Here is the process that professionals take to get mold off of concrete surfaces:
Prepare the Area
Before the experts arrive, homeowners should prepare the area by removing any loose debris or items in the vicinity. Doing so will provide an open and safe space for them to work. If the homeowners haven’t cleared the area, the professionals may temporarily move your items to clear the space and prevent any damage to the loose items.
Safety Precautions
The next step in the process is to take safety precautions, such as wearing gloves, safety goggles, and appropriate clothing. Due to the high pressure from the washer, loose debris, dirt, and water quickly emerges from the concrete, which may end up hitting the workers. This potential for danger should be addressed by taking the necessary precautions.
Choose the Pressure Washer
After the preparations are complete, the experts will choose the appropriate pressure washer for the job at hand. Because mold is usually harder to remove, a higher setting pressure washer is used in comparison to a more gentle pressure washer for a surface like a roof. The professionals will take time to assess the project and choose the best washer for the specific condition of the surfaces being washed.
Apply Detergent
Professionals will then choose the detergent needed for the job. In many pressure washing scenarios, a gentle detergent is used to effectively cleanse surfaces. When tackling mold on concrete, this detergent might comprise baking soda, vinegar, bleach, or concentrated alkaline soap. The detergent is usually applied to the concrete surface and allowed to sit for a few minutes, facilitating the breakdown of mold and grime. Stubborn areas with denser mold may require extended exposure to the detergent for enhanced effectiveness.
Pressure Wash
Following a brief soaking period with the detergent, professionals proceed to use the pressure sprayer to wash the area. The powerful combination of the detergent and high water pressure ensures efficient removal, typically requiring just one or two passes to eliminate dirt and mold. Maintaining the nozzle at a distance of 6 to 12 inches from the surface yields optimal results for mold removal. Once the thorough power wash, a final rinse with clean water adds the perfect finish touch, leaving behind a sparkling clean surface.
Choose G&S Window Cleaning for Pressure Washing Needs
While we specialize in cleaning windows at G&S Window Cleaning, we are also experts at pressure washing outdoor surfaces. We prioritize the satisfaction of our customers and understand that mold can be a scary issue. With our team, you will have your concrete free from mold and looking brand new. Contact us today to get a free quote.
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