Green algae can grow on a wooden boat dock and cause substantial damage to it. It affects the aesthetic appeal of your boat dock and waterfront property. If you do not want your wooden boat dock to stick out like a sore thumb for all the wrong reasons, here is how to remove green algae from it.
The Difference between Green Algae, Moss, and Mold and Mildew
Green algae are different from moss, mold, and mildew. It is a green and slimy film that grows in dark and wet conditions. On the other hand, moss is soft, fuzzy, green, and grows in the same type of conditions as green algae. Mold and mildew are greenish-black streaks that grow on wood.
The Importance of Removing Green Algae from Wooden Boat Docks
If untreated, mold spores can cause health risks to the surrounding life, such as people and pets. Whether you find green algae, moss, or mold and mildew, you need to treat them immediately. Out of the three, the most common growth you will encounter is green algae.
Green algae are difficult to remove, reappearing in a few weeks if not properly removed. It spreads quickly; hence, you must remove any green spots you come across straight away.
The Conditions that Cause Green Algae Growth
Having prior knowledge of conditions that cause green algae growth can help you to prevent it from developing on your wooden boat dock, outdoor furniture, and patio. Algae grows in dark and damp environments, but it does not develop overnight.
With regular maintenance, it is easy to prevent your wooden boat dock from becoming green. The three primary factors you need to keep in mind when taking measures to prevent the growth of algae is debris, moisture, and shade.
- Debris, such as pine needles and leaves can gather on floating docks, blocking out the sunlight and preventing it from reaching the wood’s surface and creating the perfect breeding environment for green algae and mold and mildew. Regularly blow or sweep debris from your boat dock.
- Dock floats with overhanging trees providing shading to them require you to perform deep cleaning each year to prevent the growth of green algae and moss.
- Rain can cause water to pool on floating docks. Even though most boat docks have adequate space between the planks to allow additional water to drain, your planks may be uneven or sealed. Keep an eye out for pooling water, especially in the winter, sweeping off the snow to keep your boat dock as dry as you can.
Removing Green Algae from Wooden Boat Docks
Do not use bleach to remove algae from wooden boat docks because it can change its color and cause the metal fasteners – that keep your boat dock together – to rust. Here are other safer cleaning solutions to use:
- Use products specially designed for green algae and moss removal (a little more expensive than other solutions, but effective).
- Use hydrogen peroxide (will not stop algae from growing but will remove it effectively).
- Apply white distilled vinegar (mix one gallon of water with one cup of vinegar).
- Use pressure washing to blast it away (consider getting a professional to do it).
If you want expert advice on maintaining your boat dock or need to install a new one, contact EZ Dock Texas at 800-654-8168for a quote if you reside in Texas, Oklahoma, or New Mexico.
