Maintaining My Home

Mould is often black, and can be mistaken for dirt, but it can do more damage than ordinary dirt. Mould and lichen are living organisms that can grow through the surface film of existing paint, shortening the life of the paintwork. Once you see mould or lichen on paintwork, remove it without delay.

Wash down the wall using a low-pressure hose, a soft brush and detergent to remove any surface dirt. Rinse well. Then apply a solution of 1 part household bleach to 4 parts water, or use a proprietary mould killer as the manufacturer directs. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. Wear safety glasses and protective gloves and clothing. Do not let wash-water containing bleach or mould-killer enter garden beds or a stormwater system.

Do not use a waterblaster on weatherboard walls – it can lead to long-term damage if it forces water through gaps into the wall assembly. Do not waterblast old fibre-cement walls that may contain asbestos. Waterblasting can be used on exterior concrete.

Make cleaning the exterior part of a regular maintenance programme – see Maintenance Schedule for details

Cut back planting or overhanging trees; where possible, redesign the garden/ planting to prevent the problem recurring.

Wash down the exterior of the building as for the repair above.

Wash down the exterior of the building as for the first repair.

Begin a regular cleaning programme.

Wash down the exterior of the building as for the first repair.

Begin a regular cleaning programme.

Identify the problem. If the gutter or pipe is damaged, repair or replace it. If the blockage is cause by leaves from an overhanging tree, cut back the branches.

Wash down the exterior of the building as for the first repair.