Green Growth Removal and Prevention
Understanding Algae and other bio contaminations
This photo shows two common forms of algae. Red Algae & Green Algae.
The red algae grows slowly on vertical walls in mild climates, usually on a shady wall. Interestingly, it grows on concrete and cement and rarely on any other materials. It spreads from spores in he air.
The green algae is similar to red algae, it doesn’t enjoy direct sun-light, it prefers a shady wall, but unlike the red algae, this needs a regular supply of water. You will find it where water is dripping from defective rainwater gutters, pipes or flashings. If you look at the image you will see that its is located near the ledges at the top of the wall. Green Algae is a clear indicator that walls are being saturated and there is a problem that needs to be investigated.
Black algae are single-celled organisms that grow in large colonies. They contain chlorophyll like other algae, but they also contain compounds that mask the green color. It forms in cracks and crevices on pool surfaces (especially plaster finishes) and can grow somewhat protected from the surrounding environment due to the formation of a protective layer on the outside of the cell. This makes black algae more difficult to treat and it is somewhat resistant to normal chlorine levels.
This photo shows common forms of black algae before ands after cleaning.
Algae Removal:
We offer 3 different products that are excellent for removing algae:
- Intachem Algae Rem
- Remmers BFA
- Contec Surface Reviver
Algae Rem
Algae Rem will kill all living organisms, mildews, algae and spores on the masonry surface. It does not clean dirty masonry. After sterilising the surface will not leave algaecidal agents in the masonry. It is one of the active agents named in the BRE digest for the control of algae, lichens and mosses in masonry. It removes undesirable and unsightly growths, effortlessly from masonry and painted surfaces.
Remmers BFA
Cleaning of surfaces Wash the treated surface after a reasonable reaction time. Apply the product multiple times, if necessary, using a suitable tool. If needed, repeat the application. Creation of a depot of active substances: Apply the product multiple times, if necessary, using a suitable tool. Do not rinse treated surfaces. Treated surfaces can be further worked once they are sufficiently dry.
Surface Reviver
Contec Surface Reviver is a high-performance cleaner designed to remove organic and microbiological contaminants from porous surfaces such as stone, cement, tarmac etc. It is great for removing types of red/green/black algae, lichen and black mould.
Algae Prevention:
What can we do to prevent algae growth in the future?
The best way to prevent algae growth is to put down a biocide primer like BFA or Algae Rem that will sit on the surface and prevent against algae growth for some time. The most effective way is to stop water soaking into the surface completely using a waterproofing system like paint or impregnation sealer. See the products below for more details on this.
Remmers BFA
Cleaning of surfaces Wash the treated surface after a reasonable reaction time. Apply the product multiple times, if necessary, using a suitable tool. If needed, repeat the application. Creation of a depot of active substances: Apply the product multiple times, if necessary, using a suitable tool. Do not rinse treated surfaces. Treated surfaces can be further worked once they are sufficiently dry.
Algae Rem
Algae Rem will kill all living organisms, mildews, algae and spores on the masonry surface. It does not clean dirty masonry. After sterilising the surface will not leave algaecidal agents in the masonry. It is one of the active agents named in the BRE digest for the control of algae, lichens and mosses in masonry. It removes undesirable and unsightly growths, effortlessly from masonry and painted surfaces.
Color LA
"True" silicone resin paint with film preservative for surfaces at risk of infestation with algae or fungi. Façade paints not only serve the colour design of the building but also its protection. The main task is to keep moisture and therefore contaminants away from the building and at the same time maintaining an adequate level of breathability. These can be achieved with different paint types.
Impregnation & Sealers
Impregnations penetrate into the surface to ensure that there is excellent protection and permeability (breathability). It is important for renders like lime to have breathable protection so it does not affect the natural operation of the masonry or render.