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Arlington is known for its beautiful mature trees. Large oak and elm trees provide much needed shade during hot Texas summers. While trees help keep homes cooler they also increase the need for exterior cleaning.
Homes with heavy tree coverage face more exterior maintenance than homes in open sunlight. Shade and falling debris create conditions where dirt algae and stains build up faster.
Here is how tree coverage affects your home exterior and why regular cleaning becomes more important.
Shade Helps Algae and Mold Grow Faster
Sunlight plays a big role in keeping home exteriors clean. The sun helps dry siding and roofs after rain and slows the growth of mold and algae.
When trees block sunlight moisture stays on siding and roofs much longer. This constant dampness creates the perfect environment for green algae and mildew.
Many homeowners notice that the shaded side of the house turns green much faster than the sunny side. Regular house washing helps remove algae and keeps shaded areas clean. You can learn how regular house washing protects your home here
Tree Sap and Sticky Residue Cause Stains
Trees do more than drop leaves. They also drip sap and a sticky substance called honeydew which comes from insects living in the trees.
This sticky residue lands on driveways roofs and siding. Dirt sticks to it easily and creates dark dirty patches. Over time a black fungus called sooty mold can grow on this residue making surfaces look even worse.
Rinsing with water usually does not remove sap and honeydew. Professional cleaning solutions are needed to safely break it down and wash it away.
Fallen Leaves Leave Brown Stains on Concrete
When leaves fall onto driveways and sidewalks and get wet they release a natural substance called tannin.
Tannin acts like a dye. If wet leaves sit on concrete they leave dark brown stains shaped like the leaves. These stains are stubborn and often do not fade on their own. Professional driveway cleaning helps lift these organic stains and restore the bright look of concrete. You can learn more about how experts remove driveway stains here
Roof Debris Traps Moisture
Trees drop leaves twigs and small branches onto roofs. When debris piles up it traps moisture against the shingles.
This trapped moisture can shorten the life of roofing materials and increase the chance of leaks. Debris also clogs gutters which causes water to overflow and stain siding and walkways.
Keeping roofs and gutters clear is especially important for homes surrounded by trees.
Extra Shade Means Extra Maintenance
You do not need to remove your trees to keep your home clean. You simply need to adjust your exterior cleaning schedule.
Homes with heavy tree coverage often need washing at least once a year to prevent algae sap and stains from becoming permanent.
Keep Your Shaded Home Looking Clean
Do not let shade turn your home green or stained. If your Arlington home has many trees Stegmeier Pressure Washing can help manage the extra maintenance.
Contact us today to remove algae sap and leaf stains and keep your home exterior looking bright and well cared for.
