The black tar like spots that are all over your vinyl siding are more than likely a fungus called sphaerobolus stellatus better known as artillery or shotgun fungus although it s most often found on the east coast it can grow anywhere and especially thrives in areas that have cool damp springs or rainy fall weather conditions.
Black stains on vinyl siding.
Vinyl siding may appear maintenance free but if you are the proud owner of a home with siding you have already learned that it simply isn t so.
This article discusses common causes of stains or discoloration found on vinyl building siding.
If you have new vinyl siding that s still shiny and you know that the spores haven t been stuck on for more than a few days you might be able to power wash them off.
Removing spots from vinyl siding.
Vinyl siding stain diagnosis.
The vinyl siding institute yes there really is such an organization offers some helpful and specific tips for dealing with stubborn moldy spots on your siding.
The siding is relatively low maintenance as you don t need to paint it every year like wood siding or repair mortar like brick construction.
Vinyl siding requires care to keep it looking its best.
Instead clean stains such as black scuff marks as soon as you notice them to prevent them from baking or settling into the siding.
These stains are primarily caused by mold and mildew.
Because it is an exterior product vinyl siding can accumulate a host of dirt grime and stains on account of things like pollen bird and insect droppings spider webs and rust.
Dark green and brown stains on your vinyl siding can be very unattractive.
Dirt from rain splash up algae lichens mold moss or even smoke or chemical stains have different causes and different preventative measures.
Distinguishing the type of stain found on siding is useful in deciding on the cause and thus the cure or prevention of staining.
Clean tough stains off with a nonabrasive cleaner or a homemade vinyl siding cleaner of soap and water that won t damage the surface of the vinyl.
It needs to be properly cleaned and stains removed to keep it from looking dirty and dingy.
For tough spots like paint drips tar and pencil and pen marks use a nonabrasive bathtub cleaner or nylon scrub pad.