Differences Between Algae and Mold

Algae and mold are different but equally harmful to your property. Mold is a fungus that will eat nutrients to survive. Algae is more plant-like and eats the limestone filler in shingles and organic matter on a home’s siding. Neither is good news for your home’s exterior. Read on to learn the differences between algae and mold, and most importantly, how the two can be removed.

Algae Overview
Gloeocapsa magma is the scientific term for the algae on your roof. Algae is airborne and blows from one roof to another. As the algae feeds on the limestone in your shingles, a black residue is left behind and gravity causes it to streak down the roof. Algae can separate the granules in the shingles requiring shingle replacement if it is allowed to grow long enough.

Algae colonies also grow on your home’s siding where there is a lack of direct sunlight, which is most commonly on the north side. If you notice one side of your home much dirtier than the rest, algae is most likely the culprit.

Mold Overview
Because mold is a fungus and not a plant, it produces spores. These spores are significantly smaller than a human hair, measuring in at a size range of 3 to 4 microns; in comparison, a strand of human hair is 75-150 microns.

Damp, dark conditions are ideal for mold growth. The space behind house siding and roof shingles are perfect breeding grounds for mold. Tiny spores quickly multiply. People who have a mold allergy or asthma may have a stronger reaction to mold. For example, coughing or worsened asthma symptoms can be a result of breathing in mold spores. Other symptoms include eye or skin irritation, throat irritation, and a stuffy nose.

How to Remove Algae
There are many key advantages to hiring a professional to treat your roof and siding over taking care of it yourself. Hiring an insured professional will protect you against any harm caused to your roof or the worker. It is also possible that there are more living organisms on your roof and siding than just the algae. Gloeocapsa magma has a symbiotic relationship with certain fungi and the pairing of the two can lead to the growth of lichens. A professional will check and treat the property for algae, mold, lichens, and the beginning stages of moss growth.

How to Remove Mold
One of the most efficient ways to eliminate mold is through professional power washing. An experienced team will neutralize and remove all mold with a biodegradable cleanser that will remove it and help protect against its return.

Mold can grow underneath siding panels, leading to premature replacement if left untreated. Mold can get inside of the underlying plywood and become a severe health risk. Always consult a professional if you suspect the presence of mold and never try to remove it yourself.

How to Prevent Algae and Mold
We recommend having your house washed every year to avoid the growth of algae and mold. Our certified technicians utilize specialized detergents to ensure your home not only stays looking great but is protected against these infestations.

Article Source: https://perfectpowerwash.com/differences-between-algae-and-mold/

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Wishing you holidays filled with fun and laughter, and very best wishes for a prosperous new year.

What's the Difference Between Cleaning, Sanitizing, and Disinfecting? StarCare Power Wash Knows!

According to the CDC Website there is a big difference between Cleaning, Sanitizing and Disinfecting. StarCare understands the difference and provides professional Cleaning, Sanitizing and Disinfecting!

CLEANING: this process removes germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces or objects. This process does not necessarily kill germs, but by removing them it lowers their numbers and the risk of spreading infection.

SANITIZING: This lowers the number of germs on surfaces to a safe level as judged by public health standards.

DISINFECTING: kills germs on surfaces. Disinfecting works by using chemicals to kills germs on surfaces or objects. This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces, but by killing germs it can lower the risk of spreading infection.

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Professional vs DIY Power Washing

While some home improvement projects lend themselves to the do-it-yourself community, others should be left to professionals. When it comes to power washing, if you have simply done a few minutes of research, you know both DIY and hiring a professional service are options. There is a lot to consider, from cost to the quality of the job, and both options present a list of pros and cons. In this post, we highlight those pros and cons to make sure you have all the information you need before power washing your home.

DIY Power Washing

PROS
On a per-day basis, renting a power washer is not too expensive. For smaller projects, you can adequately wash surfaces and keep it cost-effective. Another benefit of choosing the DIY route for power washing, if you decide to do so, is that you have full control over the operation and outcome of the project. You can easily find a standard residential pressure washer at a local home improvement store for rental.

CONS
While doable, power washing your home can be time-consuming and potentially dangerous. For example, there are countless hard-to-reach areas on a typical home that are difficult to clean with a standard pressure washer. In this situation, your first instinct will likely be to grab a ladder. While logical, there is a high risk of injury since there is a great amount of pressure coming from the wand. Additionally, the high pressure can easily damage the structure of your vinyl siding.

Another common perception is that, in general, it is cheaper to power wash on your own. While that may be true for small and concentrated areas, there are several overlooked factors:

• Cost of equipment (pressure washer rental/purchase, fuel, etc.)
• Cost of soap/cleansers
• Cost of water used
• Opportunity cost

While opportunity cost may not be top of mind, it is critical to know that washing a house without professional-grade equipment can take days to complete. Even then, the results may not be what you expected. Simply put, the best and safest way to power wash a home is to use a soft wash method in combination with professional cleansers. DIY power washing makes it nearly impossible to accomplish that.

Professional Power Washing

PROS
Hiring one of the professional power washing services in your area will yield the best results for your home. Reputable power washing companies have the experience and processes to assure that your property gets washed safely and efficiently.

As previously mentioned, a standard residential pressure washer will not have the capability to reach high areas or effectively clean stubborn areas of a home. Conversely, a professional power washing company will have the equipment and technology to clean your entire home thoroughly. On top of that, here a few other advantages of hiring an experienced professional company:

• A reputable company is fully insured in case of any unforeseen issues.
• All contaminants, like algae and mildew, will be removed from your home.
• You will have a single expense vs. shopping around for a long list of equipment.
• You do not have to spend your weekend or free-time power washing.

CONS
When hiring a company or contractor to wash your home, it is understandable to look for the lowest price. Just like in any industry, price is often directly correlated to quality. We encourage you not to focus solely on price, but instead spend time researching a company’s credibility and reviews. This will prevent a situation where someone shows up with just a pickup truck and the same pressure washer you could have rented. Additionally, a contractor like this may become elusive once the job is paid for, which can be especially problematic if there were any issues with the job. Unfortunately, fly-by-night companies do exist.

Article Source: https://perfectpowerwash.com/professional-vs-diy-power-washing/

Hire a Professional like StarCare Power Wash!

Full-service pressure washing and soft washing. We specialize in exterior cleaning on both commercial and residential properties. We are experienced, insured, reliable and easy to do business with! We also specialize in disinfecting and sanitizing exterior surfaces!

Well, It Used To Be White, And It Is Again!

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How many times have you gone through one of those self-service car washes and noticed how filthy the walls and equipment becomes over time. It's an easy fix for StarCare Power Wash. We clean the cleaner!

5 Reasons Pressure Washing is Important

To many, pressure washing may seem like a discretionary task. It’s only performed to rid your house, patio, or driveway of unsightly dirt, right?

Not exactly. This simple task has many benefits beyond making your home more handsome. It plays a critical role in many important home projects and also protects your personal health and safety.

Why Pressure Washing Matters

Preparation for Renovation

Prior to the renovation of any exterior elements, you’ll want to pressure wash to save yourself a headache later on. It may seem like an unnecessary step, but if you read the labels on paint cans, sealant tubes, or bottles of stain, they’ll all tell you that a clean surface is necessary before application.

Pressure washing is a great way to not only make sure the surface is clean, but it also can take off old, peeling layers of product that could cause the new applications some problems down the line.

Protect Your Home from Disrepair

Prevent the growth of destructive mold, mildew, moss, and algae that can cause repair issues down the line. A pressure washer can easily erase mold that has grown onto the side of your home or business.

Since pressure washing is such an easy solution, there’s no need for you to live with the damage and dinginess these kinds of growths can inflict on your house.

Deep Clean All Areas of Your Home

Siding, brick, and driveways aren’t the only areas that can benefit from a good power wash. Your patio or deck, any concrete surface, and even your outdoor furniture can profit from this spring cleaning task. You’ll think you have a brand new porch once the task is completed.

Immediately Increase the Value of Your Home

If you’re planning to sell your home soon, pressure washing is an affordable and easy way to impress a potential buyer and boost your curb appeal. By removing that built up layer of dirt and grime with a simple pressure washing, you can drastically increase your home’s value to buyers and realtors.

According to the National Association of Realtors, pressure washing can increase the sale price by $10,000 to $15,000.

Protect You and Your Family’s Health

If you or your loved ones suffer from allergies or you want to make sure your home is as clean as possible, pressure washing can help alleviate many of those problems. By scraping off layers of dust, allergens, and mold, sure washing gets rid of those irritants and cleans off surfaces so you can reclaim your home and your health.

Call a Professional Pressure Washing Company Today

Though pressure washing looks like a simple task, there is more to it than meets the eye. Not only do you need to wear proper attire, but you also need to exercise great care: pressure washers are dangerous if not handled properly.

If you’re curious about the other benefits of pressure washing, or if you need advice on how to pressure wash your house, contact your local pressure washing business for more information on the topic.

Article Source: https://www.aaawindowsolutions.com/news/5-reasons-pressure-washing-is-important/

Cleaning and Sanitizing is a Must for Restaurants!

During these unprecedented times, cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting is as important as ever. The experts at StarCare Power Wash can help bring your restaurant's outdoor dining experience to a whole new level of cleanliness! Not only will your curb-appeal be more aesthetically pleasing, but customers can feel safer knowing that you've taken the extra step in Covid-19 protocols. 

Give us a call to schedule your appointment.

707-580-3665