What is the black stuff on my vinyl siding?

What is the black stuff on my vinyl siding?

Mulch/dirt spots If you notice lots of tiny black or dark brown spots developing on your siding above a landscaped area of your yard (as seen below), it is most likely artillery—otherwise known as shotgun—fungus. Artillery fungus is a wood-dwelling fungus commonly found in mulch.

What causes vinyl siding to bulge?

Siding is designed to hang from metal fasteners in a way that allows it to expand and contract with temperature changes. If the siding is nailed to these fasteners too tightly and it can’t move, then nails will pop and create bulges, or the siding will buckle and warp because of its inability to move.

Can black mold grow on vinyl siding?

Vinyl siding is a popular addition to the exterior of homes because it’s known for being durable and affordable. But there is a downside to this material, and it’s that mold and mildew tend to grow on vinyl siding.

What causes black spots on siding?

The dark spots you see on your siding is a wood-decaying fungus and it does not care if you have wood, vinyl, or hard-plank siding it will latch onto it. This fungus comes from the mulch in your flower beds. Chances are if you have mulch around your house you have Artillery Fungus growth.

What is the black stuff on the outside of my house?

Black staining on the exterior of buildings That dark discoloration on the side of your house can be one of three things: algae, mold or moss. These three types of growths can survive in similar environments, making it difficult to tell exactly what’s growing on your exterior walls.

How do you fix buckling siding?

Unfortunately most vinyl siding cannot be fixed once it buckles. Buckled or warped vinyl siding will hold the that shape forever in most cases. To fix the problem the damaged pieces must be removed and replaced.

What does warped siding mean?

If you walk outside and notice that your siding has started to buckle, droop, or twist off your house, then you have encountered warped siding . This occurs with vinyl siding materials, and in addition to looking unsightly it can also cause moisture issues and damage to your inner walls.

What does black mold look like on siding?

Mold looks fuzzy or slimy and comes in many colors, from dark green to bright red to black. It can cause structural damage if left to grow unchecked. Mold is also known to cause health issues, including allergic reactions and respiratory issues.

How do you remove black mold from vinyl siding?

Water And Vinegar Solution + Some Elbow Grease. 30% white vinegar mixed with 70% water, makes a great all-purpose vinyl siding cleaner that will remove light mold and mildew stains. If your mold is not budging a stronger cleaning solution might be needed.

How do you get rid of black spots on vinyl siding?

Vinyl siding that still has an oily residue on it can be power-washed within the first week. Scraping the spores off one by one with a plastic scraper or steel wool is tedious but effective. After removing the top layer, there will still be a stain left; this can be taken care of with an ink eraser or bleach.

Is black dust mold?

BLACK DUST This is black mold, and it is very dangerous to your health. Black mold can grow inside your house as well. It is typically found in areas where there is water, such as under your kitchen or bathroom sink, in your laundry room or shower, and around the plumbing for your dishwasher.

Does artillery fungus go away?

How to Get Rid of Artillery Fungus. There is no recommended artillery fungus treatment. If the spores are fresh, sometimes soap and water with a scrub brush will remove a bit of the fungus. You can power wash them off of vinyl siding but such methods can be damaging to cars and wood siding.

What dissolves artillery fungus?

Hydrogen Peroxide: some report this working. Soak the area, allow it to bubble, then scrub the surface and attempt to remove the spores. Mouthwash: this is another reported solution for removing artillery fungus spores. Apply it to the area and let it dwell, then attempt to remove the fungus.

How do you stop vinyl siding from warping?

Common ways to prevent your vinyl siding from melting are:

1. Installing an awning over the Low-E window that’s causing the issue.
2. Planting some shade trees in from of the low-e window.
3. Investing in heat resistant siding.
4. Installing shade screen over the Low-E window.

Is it normal for vinyl siding to warp?

Many cases of bad warping occur during the summer, when the air heats up and the sunlight starts directing a lot of thermal energy at the walls of your house. Poor quality vinyl or dark paint colors cannot take this abuse, and the siding will start to warp and buckle as it absorbs the heat and expands.

How can you tell the difference between black mold and regular mold?

While other types of mold may have a fuzzy, light texture, black mold will usually be slimy or wet. Some early forms of black mold have a powdery feel. Rub the mold with a paper towel to determine the texture, but be sure to wear gloves, a face mask, coveralls, and safety goggles when going near mold.

What kills mold on vinyl siding?

white vinegar
70% water, 30% white vinegar makes a great all-purpose vinyl siding cleaner that removes light mold and mildew stains. For a stronger solution, mix together one-third cup powdered laundry detergent, two-thirds cup powdered household cleaner, one quart liquid laundry bleach and one gallon of water.