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Living in Florida means enjoying beautiful weather, stunning beaches, and... constant battles with mold and mildew. It's an unavoidable reality of our subtropical climate, but that doesn't mean you're powerless against it.
In this guide, we'll explore why mold thrives in Florida and what you can do to protect your home's exterior.
Why Florida's Climate Breeds Mold
Mold needs three things to grow: moisture, warmth, and organic material. Florida provides all three in abundance:
Humidity
Florida's average humidity ranges from 70-90%, depending on the season. This is well above the 60% threshold where mold begins to thrive. Even without rain, the air itself provides enough moisture for mold growth.
Temperature
Mold grows best between 60°F and 80°F, which describes most of Florida's year. Unlike northern states where winter kills off mold, Florida's mild winters allow continuous growth year-round.
Rainfall
Florida receives an average of 54 inches of rain annually, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms during summer months. This constant moisture keeps surfaces damp and mold happy.
Organic Material
Pollen, dust, dirt, and other organic particles constantly settle on your home's exterior, providing food for mold colonies.
"In Florida, the question isn't IF mold will grow on your home, but how quickly. The conditions here are simply too perfect for it."
Health Concerns from Exterior Mold
While exterior mold isn't inside your home, it can still affect your family's health:
Respiratory Issues
Mold releases spores into the air that can be inhaled when you're outside, enter through open windows, or be tracked inside on clothing and shoes. These spores can trigger:
- Allergic reactions
- Asthma flare-ups
- Sinus congestion
- Coughing and wheezing
- Eye and skin irritation
Indoor Migration
Exterior mold can work its way inside through:
- Gaps around windows and doors
- HVAC air intake vents
- Cracks in siding or stucco
- Behind siding that traps moisture
Identifying Mold vs Mildew vs Algae
Not all exterior growth is the same. Here's how to tell them apart:
Mold
- Appearance: Fuzzy or slimy, can be black, green, or gray
- Location: Shaded, moist areas; under eaves, around windows
- Texture: Raised, three-dimensional growth
- Smell: Musty, earthy odor
Mildew
- Appearance: Flat, powdery, usually white or gray (may turn brown)
- Location: Similar to mold; bathroom exteriors, north-facing walls
- Texture: Flat, powdery coating
- Smell: Strong musty smell
Algae
- Appearance: Green or black streaks (like Gloeocapsa magma on roofs)
- Location: Any surface with moisture; roofs, siding, driveways
- Texture: Flat, adhered to surface
- Smell: Minimal odor
Prevention Strategies for Homeowners
1. Improve Drainage and Airflow
- Ensure gutters and downspouts direct water away from your home
- Trim bushes and plants at least 12 inches from siding
- Prune trees to increase sunlight exposure
- Fix any areas where water pools near the foundation
2. Control Moisture Sources
- Repair leaky outdoor faucets and hoses
- Adjust sprinklers to avoid hitting the house
- Check that A/C condensate lines drain properly
- Ensure bathroom and dryer vents exhaust away from siding
3. Reduce Organic Material
- Blow or rake leaves away from the house regularly
- Keep mulch several inches away from siding
- Remove debris from roof valleys and behind dormers
- Clean gutters regularly to prevent overflow
4. Address Problems Early
- Clean small mold spots as soon as you notice them
- Don't wait until growth covers large areas
- Early treatment prevents deep penetration
Regular Cleaning Schedule Recommendations
Based on years of experience cleaning homes in Walton County, here's what we recommend:
Annual (Minimum)
- House washing: Full soft wash of all siding
- Roof inspection: Check for algae, clean as needed
Twice Yearly (Recommended)
- Spring: After pollen season ends, before summer humidity peaks
- Fall: Before holiday visitors, after hurricane season
Quarterly (Problem Areas)
- Heavily shaded homes: North-facing walls, areas under trees
- Waterfront properties: Higher humidity exposure
- Homes with screen enclosures: Pool cages trap humidity
See our guide on the best time to pressure wash in Florida for seasonal timing tips.
Professional Treatment Options
Soft Wash Cleaning
Professional soft washing doesn't just remove mold - it kills it. The cleaning solutions contain mildewcides that eliminate mold at the root, preventing quick regrowth. This is far more effective than DIY methods that only remove surface growth.
Preventive Treatments
Some professional services offer preventive treatments that create an inhospitable environment for mold growth. These can extend the time between cleanings.
Full Property Assessment
A professional can identify problem areas you might miss - moisture traps, drainage issues, and conditions that encourage growth.
Take Action Against Mold
Don't let Florida's climate win the battle against your home. With regular maintenance and professional cleaning, you can keep mold and mildew under control.
Contact Sam's Softwash for a free assessment and quote. We'll identify problem areas and recommend the best cleaning schedule for your home. Serving Choctaw Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, Niceville, and all of Walton County.