For most of the people, paint is just the color on walls, timber, metal, bricks or outside/inside surfaces of their house. Once you paint any surface, several defects are bound to occur on that particular surface. The defects arise as paint film is subjected to the chemical attack of the atmosphere, sunlight, dust, and heat, all deteriorating it. Algae growth is one of the several defects on a painted surface.

What effect can algae have on your building?

Algae is a tiny plant form that is similar to seaweed, however as it has no roots or leaves it can grow on almost any surface, which also makes it difficult to remove. Algae thrive in damp conditions but also likes to have a lot of light, meaning the flat external surfaces of buildings are perfect habitats for algae to spread in ideal conditions. It can grow in large patches or films across the surface of a building with no defined borders, which are usually green but can occasionally be black, red, or yellow.

Algae growth will produce a ‘slimy’ texture, which on pavements or walkways can be dangerous and cause a number of slips, but on buildings and other structures, it is not necessarily damaging if it is treated as soon as possible. In addition to leaving stains on masonry and brickwork, the expanding and contracting of algae slime upon becoming wet and drying out can cause superficial damage to the stone surface. If the algae growth is thick, it can even create its own habitat for woody plants which can pose a danger of dislodging brick and stone with their roots.

The length of time algae has been left to grow, and the surface area it covers can greatly vary the time and method needed to properly clean the facade. There are a number of suggested methods that some often employ to eliminate the growth of algae by using high-quality paints.

SVB Associates use high-quality paint which prevents your building from algae and fungus.

Our Recommendation:

  • Algae cannot survive without its food source. So if algae occur outdoor then remove plants or shrub from surrounding areas. And for indoor, remove plants (if any) from the affected wall and also make arrangements for sunlight to fall on the affected wall.
  • Paint should have a quality which we make sure that the pores of the surface are not sealed and moisture vapor is not trapped underneath the final coating. If moisture vapor doesn’t disappear or evaporates then the moisture will get trapped underneath the paint film and it might aggravate the process of algae growth.
  • If there is any leakage from the concealed plumbing lines then find the source of it and get it repaired, as it increases moisture on the surface and algae can occur.
  • To distinguish algae whether it arises from dirt or dampness, apply a few drops of household bleach to the discolored area. If it disappears, it is probably algae due to dust. It can easily be rubbed off with brush and clean it with water and repaint with the desired appearance.

It is important to understand and bear in mind that algae are natural, living organisms and therefore able to survive and adapt to any condition. Consequently, it needs periodical observation and cleaning. If the periodic painting of a surface is not carried out then the layer of contaminants, such as dirt or dust will make a microscopic layer on the surface and this kind of layer will provide an excellent place for algae growth.

If you need more help or advice, call the professionals at SVB Associates. We have painted hundreds of building across the country and can lend you our expertise.

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