How to Prevent Algae Growth After Pressure Washing

It takes consistent effort to combat the effects of the elements and keep your outdoor structures spotless. That’s where deep pressure washing comes in.

It’s arguably the easiest way to remove grime, stains, and whatever else has been clinging to your patio, driveway, or fence.

All this water has to go somewhere, though, and there’s a lot of it. Your outdoor surfaces will likely take some time to dry afterwards, which presents a golden opportunity for algae to make itself at home.

In this guide, we will explore in great detail why this happens and how to avoid it entirely.

Why Algae Appears After Pressure Washing

Knowing what attracts these green climbers will help you stay one step ahead of them.

You see, water usually seeps into the cracks of concrete, wood, and brick surfaces during cleaning. Since some materials are more porous than others, they can continue to retain moisture, even after drying them by hand.

Toss in a humid breeze or a chilly spell, and that leftover dampness will team up with the moisture in the air, creating the perfect home for algae.

This only gets trickier in tropical regions. With the constant rain and incessant humidity, drying becomes a drawn-out affair.

Without direct sunlight and natural heat, outdoor spaces often take days to dry. For that reason, areas shielded by towering trees or tall buildings inevitably become breeding grounds for those relentless organisms.

Steps to Prevent Algae Development

There are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of algae emerging after thorough washings, starting with the following.

Use Algae-Resistant Cleaners

Most pressure washers are compatible with specialised detergents containing potent biocides. These solutions don’t just eliminate the microscopic spores. They also act as protective shields that prevent future infestations.

Plus, they obliterate harmful bacteria, persistent moss, and tenacious mould, preserving the integrity of your outdoor structures.

However, these treatments are designed for specific materials. So, make sure the one you choose is safe for the surface in question, and stick to the manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid unintended damage.

Allow Surfaces to Dry Properly

As you would’ve gathered by now, dampness is the enemy here.

To speed up the drying process, schedule your cleanup on a sunny day with low humidity and a gentle breeze. If you’re in a hurry, a leaf blower or air compressor can help expel the moisture hiding in cracks and crevices.

Some deep pressure washing firms even offer this service at an additional fee, so be sure to ask about that.

No matter what, resist the urge to use any freshly cleaned surfaces before they’ve had a chance to dry fully. Otherwise, you could trap moisture inside the pores, which is essentially the same as rolling out a welcome mat for algae and mould.

Apply a Sealant

Excessive washing can compromise the structural integrity of your property over time. Luckily, there’s a way to boost your upkeep efforts instead of overdoing it.

A high-quality sealant is your secret weapon here. Simply apply it after the surface dries to prevent water absorption.

It even offers an added bonus of keeping dirt from accumulating, so you won’t find yourself scrubbing things down quite so often. Just make sure you choose compatible products for your materials.

Wood responds best to oil-based sealants, while concrete prefers water-based alternatives.

Perform Regular Maintenance

Consistent upkeep helps prevent this unsightly green film, too. A quick rinse with a standard garden hose now and then goes a long way in keeping algae at bay.

We strongly recommend deep pressure washing every few months as well, especially following the wet seasons. That way, you can wipe out spores before they spread all over the place.

At the same time, keep an eye out for sunken spots or swales where rainwater tends to gather and linger.

Those harmless-looking puddles aren’t so harmless after all. They become breeding grounds for those green invaders, where they will quietly multiply and slowly creep their way across your garden.

You must address any problem areas before they get a chance to set up camp. You can either dry the spots in question manually or install a drainage system to encourage water to flow away from there and save yourself the hassle.

A steady maintenance routine will allow you to stay on top of things. Yours should include frequent inspections during the spring and summer. That’s when biological growth usually accelerates.

Additionally, set reminders to check the property on the first weekend of each month to guarantee that no algae spores have slipped by. You’ll want to be extra meticulous during autumn, as the fallen leaves can trap moisture against various surfaces.

The right tools will make your upkeep a breeze. Your caddy has to include durable scrub brushes with extended handles, along with pressurised garden sprayers for those hard-to-reach areas.

A leaf blower with moisture extraction settings will come in handy, too. It will expedite the drying process after unexpected rainfall.

Eco-Friendly Alternatives for Algae Prevention

There are plenty of natural solutions you can use to keep those slimy invaders away in between washings.

A simple mix of white vinegar and water leaves a sharp, acidic layer that’s intolerable to them. To maximise the efficacy of this DIY concoction, apply it early in the morning so it has enough time to work before it evaporates.

Baking soda is another handy alternative. It’s basically nature’s silica gel. Sprinkle it lightly across damp spots, and it will absorb moisture while simultaneously blocking spore development.

You can also install copper strips along wooden structures for added protection. This centuries-old hack helps prevent the growth of algae and moss throughout the seasons.

Last but not least, keep some tea tree oil on hand. With its powerful antimicrobial properties, it will help keep your fences, roof, and external property algae-free, without posing any harm to your children or pets.

Similarly, diatomaceous earth can help banish those slimy organisms, without endangering your green companions’ health.

Additional Tips to Keep Algae Away

These steps will surely help you stave off any infestations, but if you’re willing to go the extra mile, there are a couple more precautions you can take.

Start by giving those overhanging branches a proper trim. That way, more sunlight will reach those forgotten corners, allowing the air to move freely and keeping the damp at bay.

It also pays to check the gutters regularly for any cracks or clogs that may be directing water where it doesn’t belong.

When it comes to upgrades, skip the charming but porous materials and go for something that doesn’t absorb too much moisture. Composite decking and vinyl fencing are better than wood in that regard.

Conclusion

Pressure washing is a quick and easy way of refreshing outdoor structures, but if you’re not careful, it can present the perfect opportunity for algae development.

A specialised cleaner followed by a reliable sealant will keep those clingy climbers at bay. Just make sure the surface has had enough time to dry.

Combine them with some preventive measures and a consistent maintenance routine, and you’ll never have to worry about those unsightly intruders again!