Removing Algae from Render | Cleaning Green and Red Stains on Render

At Softwashing UK we specialise in removing algae from and render and cleaning off the green and red stains that so often appear on render substrates. Render is rightfully a very popular building material, used to finish, and insulate, exterior walls. It is very durable, usually with a guarantee of 25 years plus, and it is weather resistant. It also maintains its colour and is through coloured, so after several years it can look as fresh as the day it was applied. There are many popular brands, such as K-Rend, Weber, Sto, and more. Like any building material it does require maintenance from time to time. Various factors can cause the render to blow and to crack. After a period of time organic growth will take hold of render too, and this in its early stages is what leads to the red and green staining. The growth of render can be effected by various conditions. Firstly proximity to the coast, especially the western coast of the UK. Salt and minerals in the coastal air feeds organic growth, and red algae is carried in on winds bearing East descending on the western coast of Britain. Moisture and humidity are also an issue, as organic growth feeds off water. Areas with higher rainfall tend to have more prevalence of organic growth. Poorly constructed buildings, or overhangs, have a real impact to, when water run-off is forced onto the wall. Plant life and vegetation also send spores that trigger growth on render.

Algae is on the oldest organisms on the planet and usually the first organic growth to become visible on render walls. it is feeding of minerals and moisture in and on the substrate and once this happens specialist treatment will be required to remove it. Off the shelf biocides from garden centres will not be strong enough, and power washing, even if it seems to remove stains, will most likely damage your render permanently.

At Softwashing UK we have made it our business to remove the red and green stains caused by organic growth from render. Contact us today for a discussion or quotation.