Staining of walls and/or eaves

Cause

Insufficient cleaning

Repair

  • wash surfaces with water and a soft-bristled brush; use a mild detergent or a solution of 1 part household bleach to 4 parts water if necessary to remove; rinse off thoroughly
  • if staining is due to mould growth, clean with fungicidal wash to sterilise the surface and then rinse well, particularly before painting
  • institute a regular cleaning programme

Cause

Walls and eaves continuously damp due to heavy planting/overhanging trees/a bank in close proximity

Repair

  • cut back planting/overhanging trees
  • wash surfaces with water and a soft-bristled brush; use a mild detergent or a solution of 1 part household bleach to 4 parts water if necessary to remove; rinse off thoroughly
  • if staining is due to mould growth, clean with fungicidal wash to sterilise the surface and then rinse well, particularly before painting
  • institute a regular cleaning programme

Cause

Localised water run-off across the face of the wall

Repair

  • determine the cause of localised run-off; divert if possible
  • wash surfaces with water and a soft-bristled brush; use a mild detergent or a solution of 1 part household bleach to 4 parts water if necessary to remove; rinse off thoroughly
  • if staining is due to mould growth, clean with fungicidal wash to sterilise the surface and then rinse well, particularly before painting
  • institute a regular cleaning programme

Cause

Lack of rain washing

Repair

  • wash surfaces with water and a soft-bristled brush; use a mild detergent or a solution of 1 part household bleach to 4 parts water if necessary to remove; rinse off thoroughly
  • if staining is due to mould growth, clean with fungicidal wash to sterilise the surface and then rinse well, particularly before painting
  • institute a regular cleaning programme
  • wash brickwork regularly where rain washing doesn’t occur to prevent build-up of dirt and discolouration