So, you’ve discovered that yucky looking green stuff on your home, but what is it and why is it there?
The organisms that grow on the walls and roofs of homes can be moss, algae, lichen, mold or mildew. All of these can create growth formations of greenish blotches on your home, and while they can look alike, especially at a distance,they are actually different.
While mosses, algae and lichen all depend on photosynthesis to turn sunlight and moisture into food they need to grow, only mosses are classified as a plant. Mildew is solely a fungi; they get their energy by feeding on organic matter. Mildew does not use photosynthesis and therefore does not need sunlight to form and grow. The following is a small breakdown of each organism.
Moss
Has real structure
Grows leaflets
Tends to pull loose/wash away easily
Even though they grow in a root like structure, mossed do not have roots
Usually green in color, but can also be brown, yellow or black
Lichen
Like moss, lichen has real structure
Lichens do not have leaflets but can have growth that resembles stems and leaves
Combination organism that have algae or bacteria living within a structure made of fungus
Often green or light green when wet but can be brilliant colors when dry
Algae
Once classified as a plant, now is its own organism kingdom
Most likely to grow on sun exposed surfaces
Usually green in color, but can red or black
Algae can be “invasive”, totally taking over a surface it has formed growth on
Algae can be slippery, especially when forming on decks, walkways and driveways
Mold and Mildew
Grows in areas with lots of moisture
Often black in color but can be green, yellow or brown
Is a fungus
Thrives in darknesss
Can pose great health risk for humans and pets
What causes these organisms to grow?
Sunlight
Areas of your home that receive a lot of sunlight may be more likely to allow for growth.
Moisture
A damp area creates the perfect surface for growth.
Dirt
Yep. Dirt buildup on your home can hold enough moisture to allow for growth to start.
Plants
Plants can leave living tissue and sap on the home, allowing for a perfect start to algae growth.
Low Air Flow
Areas of your home that do not have proper air flow.
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