Why Mold, Algae, and Black Streaks Are So Common on Homes in Lake & Geauga County
If you live in Lake County or Geauga County, Ohio, you’ve probably noticed dark streaks on roofs, green algae on siding, or mildew building up on shaded areas of your home. Homeowners in Mentor, Kirtland, Willoughby, Willoughby Hills, Chardon, and Chesterland see this constantly — and it’s not random.
It’s a direct result of our local climate, tree coverage, and the way homes are exposed to moisture throughout Northeast Ohio.
At Exterior Revival, this is one of the most common reasons homeowners reach out for professional pressure washing.
Northeast Ohio’s Climate Makes Growth Inevitable
Homes in Lake & Geauga County deal with:
Higher humidity from proximity to Lake Erie
Heavy rain, snow, and spring thaw cycles
Long periods of shade, especially in wooded areas like Kirtland Hills, Waite Hill, and Chardon
These conditions create the perfect environment for:
Green algae on siding and concrete
Mold and mildew on north-facing walls
Black roof streaks caused by algae feeding on asphalt shingles
If your home backs up to trees or doesn’t get much direct sunlight, growth can start showing in as little as a year.
Why Certain Cities See It Worse
We often see heavier buildup in:
Mentor & Willoughby – moisture + older siding and shaded neighborhoods
Kirtland & Kirtland Hills – dense tree cover and low airflow
Chardon & Chesterland – higher elevation, longer moisture retention, and snow buildup
Homes in these areas tend to hold moisture longer, which accelerates staining and organic growth.
It’s More Than Just an Appearance Problem
While stains hurt curb appeal, they can also:
Trap moisture behind siding
Shorten the lifespan of roofing materials
Create slippery concrete walkways and driveways
Reduce overall home value in well-maintained neighborhoods
Many homeowners are surprised how much brighter their home looks after a professional house wash or concrete cleaning.
Why Professional Pressure Washing Makes a Difference
DIY pressure washing often:
Fails to fully kill mold and algae at the root
Causes damage by using too much pressure
Leads to fast regrowth when done incorrectly
Professional pressure washing uses proper cleaning solutions, safe water pressure, and methods designed specifically for Northeast Ohio homes — not one-size-fits-all approaches.
How Often Should Homes in Lake & Geauga County Be Washed?
Based on what we see locally:
House washing: every 12–18 months
Concrete cleaning: every 1–2 years
Roof cleaning: when black streaking becomes visible
Homes in Kirtland, Chardon, and heavily wooded areas may benefit from more frequent cleanings.
Proudly Serving Lake & Geauga County
Exterior Revival provides professional pressure washing and exterior cleaning services throughout Lake County and Geauga County, including Mentor, Willoughby, Willoughby Hills, Kirtland, Chardon, Chesterland, and surrounding communities.
If you’re noticing mold, algae, or black streaks on your home, addressing it early can prevent long-term damage and keep your property looking its best.
