If the north side of your house in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake or Norfolk looks a little green, you're not imagining it, and you're not alone. It's one of the most common things we see across Hampton Roads. The good news: it's easy to fix the right way.
What is the green stuff on my siding?
It's almost always algae, sometimes mixed with mildew, dirt and pollen. Airborne algae spores land on your siding, and when conditions are right they grow into that green film. Black spots and streaks are usually mildew or a darker algae.
Why Hampton Roads homes get it so fast
- Humidity. Summers here are long and humid, and siding stays damp longer, especially in the morning.
- Shade. North-facing walls and homes under mature oaks and pines in neighborhoods like Kempsville, Great Neck, Larchmont and Western Branch rarely dry out completely.
- Water nearby. Homes near the Lynnhaven River, the Elizabeth River, Back Bay or the Great Dismal Swamp sit in extra-moist air.
- Pollen. Every spring a yellow coat of pine pollen gives algae something to feed on.
Why you shouldn't just blast it off
A rented high-pressure washer will make the siding look better for a few weeks, but it doesn't kill the algae at the root, so it grows right back. Worse, high pressure can force water behind vinyl siding, crack older panels, strip paint and even break window seals.
The right fix: a low-pressure soft wash
We use a low-pressure, heated-detergent soft wash. The detergent breaks down the algae and mildew so it rinses away, and a gentle rinse leaves your siding, soffits and windows clean without damage. Our detergent is organic and safe for kids, pets and plants, and we pre-wet and rinse your landscaping too. See how our house washing works.
How often should you wash your house here?
For most homes in Hampton Roads, once a year keeps algae from getting a foothold. Shady lots, waterfront homes and north-facing walls may need it every 9–12 months. Late spring, right after pollen season, is a great time to schedule.
Don't forget the fence
White vinyl fences turn green for the same reasons, and HOAs in communities like Red Mill Farm, Cahoon Plantation and Etheridge Lakes notice. We clean vinyl and wood fences with the right pressure for each.
Book a house wash in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake or Norfolk. Prices start at $189.
Frequently asked questions
Is the green on my siding harmful?
It's mostly cosmetic, but algae and mildew hold moisture against your siding and trim, and they make a home look neglected. Many HOAs send notices about it.
Will pressure washing get rid of algae on siding?
High pressure removes the surface, but it doesn't kill algae at the root and can damage vinyl. A low-pressure soft wash with detergent removes it safely and keeps it away longer.
How much does it cost to remove algae from siding in Virginia Beach?
Our house wash, which removes algae and mildew, starts at $189 for homes up to 1,600 sq ft and is $269 for 2,901–3,400 sq ft.
Rick Monceaux is the owner of All In One Power Washing in Virginia Beach. He has been cleaning homes and businesses across Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk and the rest of Hampton Roads since 2010. Licensed & insured. More about Rick.
