Thursday, November 11, 2010

Kill Mold On Outdoor Decks

Widen outdoor deck planks to encourage drainage and discourage mold growth.


If you live in a humid climate, it is likely that you've dealt with mold growth on or in your home. Mold is a type of fungus that decays organic matter and tends to grow in areas with excessive moisture. Mold commonly grows on wood paneled homes or decks. Mold growth often looks green, brown or black and can be slimy in texture. Clean the deck on a sunny day to ensure that the water will dry off the deck completely so as not to encourage more mold growth. Does this Spark an idea?


Instructions


1. Combine 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar, 1 cup ammonia, 1/4 cup baking soda and 1 gallon water in a large bucket.


2. Pour some of the solution into a spray bottle.


3. Spray the solution directly onto the outdoor deck but do not completely soak the deck. Completely soaking the deck may cause the solution to soak too far into the deck and can warp it.


4. Let the solution sit on the deck for at least 15 minutes to give the solution time to loosen the mold's hold on the deck.


5. Scrub the deck with a brush to completely dislodge the mold. Use a hard bristled brush if the deck is plastic and a medium-bristled brush if it is made with wood.


6. Rinse the entire area with clear water from a hose.


7. Let the deck air dry completely.







Tags: deck completely, mold growth, outdoor deck