Residential Siding Cleaning to Remove Artillery Fungus

When was the last time you gave your residential siding a hard look? As the weather warms up, it becomes increasingly critical to assess the siding on your home for potential damage and disturbances. As you examine your siding, check for the presence of any tiny, circular, tarry black dots. If these dots are stuck to your siding and seem extremely pesky to remove, they are likely the spores of artillery fungus. KEVCO is here with more information about the dangers of artillery fungus and the importance of professional residential siding cleaning.

What is Artillery Fungus?

Artillery fungus is a fungus that decomposes wood, plant debris, and animal feces. The culminating bodies of the fungi are about 1/10 of an inch across, making them very difficult to notice. It is harmless to people, animals, and living plants but can pose a threat to your siding or fence.

Where Does Artillery Fungus Come From?

Artillery fungus most commonly thrives in wooden mulch. Landscape mulch provides an excellent cover for the ground. It is often implemented as a solution for weed prevention and is popular due to its overall aesthetic appeal. However, its ability to hold moisture makes it a breeding ground for fungus growth.

How Did These Black Dots Get On My Siding?

If there are black dots on your siding, the closest source of mulch or wood in your landscaping is likely to blame. While artillery fungus dwells in wooded areas, it has the shocking ability to shoot sticky, black spores up to 8 or 10 feet high and wide from its source. Artillery fungus is considered “phototropic” because it aims its growth towards light which means your nearby siding, fence, deck, or even vehicle could fall victim to a spore attack.

Why is Removing Artillery Fungus Important?

As the weather warms up, your siding and other parts of your property are more vulnerable to artillery fungus growth. Artillery fungus is known to eject spores when temperatures are between 50 and 68 degrees. The fungus then reproduces promptly in temperatures between 68 and 77 degrees. The more time the fungus is in place, the more difficult it is to remove – especially from siding. It is essential that you remove the spores no more than two to three weeks after their first appearance to ensure they do not consume and ruin the appearance of your siding.

How Can I Remove Artillery Fungus From My Siding?

Trying to remove artillery fungus from your siding without professional help will prove to be incredibly difficult and frustrating. At KEVCO, our trusted professionals can restore the appearance and lengthen the life of your siding by ensuring all potential fungus growth and debris is removed. Give us a call at (301) 258-9750 or contact us here for more information about residential siding cleaning.