From Spring Through Summer: Watch for Algae Around Your Property
As the weather warms up and humidity rises, you may start to notice algae forming on concrete surfaces around your home, condo, lake house, or vacation rental. While there are over 350 million known types of algae—most of which thrive in oceans—many types can also take hold in damp, humid environments around residential properties.
Algae typically appear as a deep green, slippery coating. Unlike common weeds, algae have no roots or stems. Instead, they spread by clinging to hard surfaces, making driveways, patios, walkways, and pool decks both unsightly and potentially hazardous.
Green algae begins to grow on concrete and cement when the surface is relatively moist and shaded most of the day. As long as the conditions are damp, you will at some point have to look for ways to remove algae from surfaces including concrete patios, basement floors, and walls in your home.
Even though it does not cause any permanent damage to the structure’s stability, it can be troublesome if left untreated. Also, since the growth can be somewhat slippery, it can become a safety hazard when left to manifest. It can also cause permanent discoloration on the concrete.
To remove green algae from concrete, a bleach and water solution is often effective. Mix bleach with water and apply it to the affected areas, allowing it to sit for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing with a brush and rinsing thoroughly. Alternatively, white vinegar can be used, applied directly or in a 50/50 mixture with water, followed by scrubbing and rinsing.
Detailed Steps:
Preparation: Sweep or vacuum the concrete to remove loose debris.
Bleach Solution (Optional): Mix 3/4 to 1 cup of bleach per gallon of water.
Vinegar Solution (Alternative): Mix equal parts white vinegar and water.
Application: Apply the solution to the algae-covered areas and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, ensuring the concrete remains wet.
Scrubbing: Use a stiff brush to scrub the algae away.
Rinsing: Thoroughly rinse the area with water to remove the cleaning solution.
Repeat: If necessary, repeat the process to achieve desired results.
Prevention: To prevent future algae growth, consider using an algae-resistant sealant or addressing issues like poor drainage that can contribute to algae growth.
Important Notes:
Always wear gloves and eye protection when working with bleach or other cleaning solutions.
Rinsing thoroughly is crucial to prevent harm to plants and other areas where the water drains.
For stubborn algae, a stronger solution of bleach or a commercial algae remover may be needed.
Consider using a pressure washer to remove loose algae and debris, especially for large areas.
Hope you enjoyed this great tip and trick for cleaning on the outside of your home – but if you are looking for an easy solution for all your in home cleaning needs and services – we can help! For ongoing cleaning whole home schedule– using our cleaning service in Kansas City, you can count on our skilled staff to take care of any loose ends throughout the week. Call us today to our teams of professional cleaners are ready to take care of the hard work for you. Book a clean today and leave the rest up to us – Treat yourself and your home! Tidy Up Angels has been providing residential cleaning service to the Overland Park area since 2008. Trusting someone to clean your home can be a little unnerving. If this is your first time hiring a cleaning company, we want you to know that you can relax with Tidy Up Angels. Our company is fully insured and bonded; safeguarding your most personal possessions. Honesty, integrity, and good work ethics are the back bone of our company. We aim to meet all your expectations and we hope to exceed them during each service. Let us know how we can help with your house cleaning services in Overland Park and how we can help you – contact Tidy Up Angels LLC at 913-642-2006
Recent Comments