Designing your patio leaves you with many options for the best style that matches your house and backyard. Concrete, in particular, is a common choice due to its durability and light color.
However, while the material works for its strength and texture, concrete is susceptible to mold within its cracks. Prolonging any repairs or preventive methods can lead to spreading and transforming your concrete patio into a nasty health hazard.
Keeping your concrete safe is a chore but doesn’t require much maintenance. This article will guide you on the risks of mold and how to prevent and purge it from your concrete patio setup.
What Causes Mold to Grow on Your Concrete Patio?
Mold can grow in the damp, shady areas of your house and patio. The little sunlight allows the mold to fester and grow around the affected area.
If you live somewhere with frequent rain, mold often grows more quickly in these shady places. Since concrete is porous, rainwater or leaky pipes seeps into the foundation and contributes to mold growth.
Heat and humid weather can also accelerate the growth of mold.
What Are the Risks of Having Mold on Your Concrete Patio?
Exposed mold is considered a dangerous health hazard. Black or green splotches of mold have a reactive effect on people with respiratory problems.
If you have allergies or asthma, be careful sitting near a patch of mold. Prolonged exposure can lead to wheezing, stuffy noses, and skin irritation.
It’s necessary to keep your concrete patio clean and mold-free if you have pets or children. They are more explorative of their surroundings and have developing bodies that might not be strong enough to handle mold exposure.
How Can You Remove Mold from Your Patio?
While it is a nuisance to have mold growing on your concrete patio, the removal process is simple. Here are some methods to help eliminate mold growing near your home and outdoor furniture.
Bleach
Bleach or any chemical detergent is strong enough to eliminate mold, fungus, and other unwanted organisms. The solvent can destroy the root of the mold to prevent further spreading.
While bleach is effective for removing mold, its surface tension does nothing to soak the concrete. Use a cleaning solution mixed with water and laundry detergent and, with a sponge, scrub the concrete to open up its pores.
Afterward, mix bleach and water and put them inside a spray bottle. Spray the diluted chemical towards the concrete and mold-ridden area, allowing some time to dry. That solution will become a shield to prevent mold growth.
Pressure Washer
A pressure washer is another effective method for removing mold. The combination of hot water and high pressure seeps through the concrete’s cracks and pores to reach the mold within.
Before using one, make sure that your pressure washer has all the materials and specs equipped. Then, fill the tank with a mold and mildew concentrate and have a pressure between 1,000 to 2,000 PSI.
Use a low-pressure nozzle over a high-pressure one to avoid damaging the concrete surface and ruining the patio’s aesthetics.
How Can You Prevent Mold from Growing on Your Patio?
Once you remove the mold, be mindful that the area still has growth potential. Here are some tips to prevent future mold growth on your concrete patio.
Avoid Leaving Moisture
Mold requires water and moisture to fester and grow. So if you manage to rid the area of water, the mold won’t be able to grow.
Patio maintenance involves keeping the area dry and clean thoroughly. Sweeping with a broom rids any dirt and organic matter from seeping through the cracks and allowing the mold to feast.
Periodic washing with a hose or pressure washer can help, but afterward, check for any remaining puddles or water stains.
Direct Sunlight
If your concrete patio contains an umbrella or chairs with seats that block the sun, be aware that these are common spots for mold.
Keep your concrete patio shade-free and allow sunlight to hit the pavement. While some spots might be hard to offer light, your patio will have many areas that prevent mold growth.
Keep Your Concrete Patio Free From Mold
The best way to prevent mold on your patio is by knowing the causes and their weaknesses. Taking away the water and shade reduces growth and keeps the concrete clean.
If you have more questions or concerns about your concrete, contact us today to set up a quote.