Removing green and black algae: a handy step-by-step plan
Green and black algae make surfaces slippery and look neglected. Discover how to remove both effectively.
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Green and black algae on wooden decks, garden furniture or fences are a common problem. Green algae develop in damp and shady spots, while black deposits are often caused by tiny soot particles and algae. Both types can make the surface slippery and unattractive. Fortunately, you can remove them effectively and in an environmentally friendly way with Osmo Terrasreiniger. In this article, we explain step by step how to make your surface clean and safe again.
Video: Removing green and black algae
In this video you will see how to remove green algae from wood.
Groene aanslag verwijderen: hoe verwijder ik groene aanslag?
Step-by-step plan: removing green and black algae
With this step-by-step plan, you can easily remove green and black algae.
Preparation
Clean the surface with a stiff broom. Remove dirt, moss and leaves that could interfere with cleaning. Pay extra attention to damp conditions, as these encourage algae growth. Also make sure there is enough drainage to prevent new algae.
Mix the Osmo Terrasreiniger
Add Osmo Terrasreiniger to a bucket of lukewarm water. Adjust the dosage to the degree of soiling:
Light green algae: Mix 1 part cleaner with 25 parts water (1:25).
Stubborn green algae: Use a 1:1 ratio for maximum cleaning power.
Apply the cleaner
Apply the cleaning solution evenly to the surface with a brush or garden sprayer. Work in the direction of the wood grain so the product penetrates well. Make sure the solution does not dry out during the soaking time.
Scrub thoroughly
Use a stiff brush to scrub the surface well. Pay extra attention to stubborn stains and spots with black deposits or algae. Repeat the treatment if necessary for a thorough clean.
Rinse with water
Rinse the surface with clean water, for example with a garden hose. Avoid using a pressure washer to prevent damage to the surface. Damaged surfaces are attacked by algae again more quickly.
Check the result
After removing the algae, check whether the surface is completely clean. For stubborn black deposits, you can apply a second treatment if needed. Make sure the surface is completely dry before you move on to any follow-up treatment.
Follow-up treatment: protect your surface after cleaning
After removing green and black algae, it is wise to give the surface extra protection against future algae, dirt and moisture. With an Osmo exterior treatment, your surface stays clean and protected for longer.
- Osmo Terras-Olie: For horizontal wooden surfaces such as decks and patios; for wooden garden furniture we recommend Natuurlijke Olie-Beits, or Terras-Olie. This oil protects against moisture and sunlight, so the wood grays less quickly.
- Osmo UV-Beschermingsolie: Ideal for vertical wooden surfaces such as fences and cladding. The oil protects against the elements and prevents drying out and cracking.
- Osmo Natuurlijke Olie-Beits: This treatment is very suitable for protecting all exterior wooden surfaces, such as afrormosia, bankirai, Douglas fir, spruce, teak and larch.
Let the surface dry for at least 24 hours after cleaning before you apply these products. This ensures optimal adhesion and protection.
Benefits of Osmo Terrasreiniger
Osmo Terrasreiniger is an excellent choice for removing both green and black algae. A few benefits at a glance:
- Suitable for untreated and oiled wood, such as decks, fences and garden furniture.
- Cleans the wood without damaging the top layer.
- Environmentally friendly and biodegradable.
- Very economical: 1 liter of cleaner is enough for 30 to 100 m², depending on the dosage.
Supplies
Tips for a lasting clean result
- Clean your wooden deck, fence and garden furniture at least twice a year, in spring and autumn.
- Make sure your surfaces get enough sunlight and have good drainage to avoid damp spots.
- Avoid standing water and regularly remove dirt and leaves to prevent new algae.
Colors and finishes
Osmo Terrasreiniger not only helps remove green and black algae, it also preserves the natural look of your wooden deck, garden furniture or fence. The product is suitable for untreated and oiled wood and does not affect the color or structure.
Want to treat your wooden surface? Osmo exterior products are available in various colors and shades to suit different wood species. This lets you enhance the natural wood color or choose a decorative shade. Oils with color pigment also offer better protection against UV radiation and graying.
Terras-Olie: for horizontal wooden surfaces
UV-Beschermingsolie: for vertical wooden surfaces
Osmo Natuurlijke Olie-Beits
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