Algae on sidings

Why Mold Grows on the North Side of Homes (And How to Prevent It in Indiana)

Ever notice that the north side of your home always seems to have that green or black buildup on the siding no matter how often you clean it? You’re not alone. Homeowners across Indiana deal with the same issue year after year. But here’s the good news: there’s a clear reason why it happens, and even better—there are simple ways to prevent it.

Let’s break down why mold loves the north side of your home, what you can do to stop it, and how the right house washing method can help keep your siding clean, healthy, and damage-free.

 

Why the North Side is the Perfect Place for Mold to Grow

In most Indiana neighborhoods, the north-facing side of homes tends to get very little direct sunlight throughout the day. That shaded environment stays cool and damp, especially during spring and fall. And as we know, mold thrives in moist, shaded conditions.

Throw in some clogged gutters, overhanging trees, or rainy weather, and that side of your house becomes the perfect habitat for mold, mildew, algae, and lichen.

In short:

  • Less sunlight = more moisture

  • More moisture = more mold

 

Is Mold on Your Siding a Big Deal?

While some types of siding mold are mostly cosmetic (like green algae), black mold and mildew can stain your vinyl siding permanently. If ignored for too long, it can:

  • Eat away at paint or siding coating

  • Increase allergy symptoms for your family

  • Spread to other areas like your deck, roof, or gutters

  • Create long-term home maintenance problems

In Indiana’s ever-changing climate, siding mold isn’t just unsightly; it can become expensive if not addressed early.

How to Prevent Mold on the North Side of Your Home

Exterior cleaning services in Carmel IN by My Guy Services

Here are the top steps we recommend for Indiana homeowners:

  • Schedule Regular House Washing
    Soft washing once or twice a year—especially before or after spring—removes mold at the root.
  • Keep Gutters Clean
    Overflowing or clogged gutters allow water to run down your siding, creating a mold haven. Schedule gutter cleaning regularly.
  • Trim Trees and Shrubs
    If you have heavy landscaping blocking sunlight from the north side, trim it back to allow light and airflow to reach your siding.
  • Check for Pooling Water or Drainage Issues
    Sometimes the issue isn’t your siding—it’s your yard. Make sure water is draining away from your foundation, not pooling beside it.

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Why Soft Washing Works Best for Mold Removal

You might be tempted to grab a pressure washer and blast away mold—but that often does more harm than good.

At My Guy Services, we use a technique called soft washing, which:

  • Uses low-pressure water combined with eco-friendly cleaning solutions

  • Kills mold spores at the root—not just on the surface

  • Keeps your siding safe from cracks, warping, and discoloration

  • Is ideal for vinyl, painted wood, and even delicate finishes

Soft washing is the safest, longest-lasting way to treat mold and mildew on Indiana homes—especially in shaded or moisture-prone areas.

See Why Soft Washing Is Safer Than Pressure Washing

Why Indiana Homes Are Extra Prone to Siding Mold

Mold on the north side of home. before and after powewashing by my guy services

The truth is that Indiana’s weather changes constantly. You might see sunshine, rain, and humidity all in the same day. Combine that with older homes, aging siding, and changing seasons, and you’ve got a recipe for exterior mold growth.

We especially see mold buildup in:

  • Older neighborhoods with mature trees

  • Homes in Fishers, Avon, Noblesville, Greenwood, and Beech Grove

  • Houses built facing north with little sun exposure

If you live in one of these areas, your home is likely a candidate for regular soft washing.

Real-Life Example: A North-Facing Home in Fishers

One of our clients in Fishers, IN, had thick green mold on the entire back of her home—despite having her siding cleaned just last year. After a full inspection, we discovered:

  • North-facing orientation

  • Shaded by trees

  • Clogged downspouts

We cleaned it with a soft wash system, flushed the gutters, and gave tips to prevent future buildup. She hasn’t seen mold return in 12 months and her siding still looks brand new.

Book a Mold-Free Siding Cleaning Today

Whether you’re dealing with mildew on your vinyl siding or black stains creeping along the back of your house, we’ve got your back.

Let My Guy Services restore your home’s beauty with soft washing that’s:

  • Safe

  • Affordable

  • Eco-friendly

  • Backed by a satisfaction guarantee

 

Need Year-Round Protection? Ask About Our Maintenance Packages

Want to keep mold, algae, and grime off your home for good? Ask us about our quarterly or seasonal exterior maintenance packages designed for Indiana homeowners.

Serving Fishers, Carmel, Greenwood, Noblesville, Beech Grove, Avon, and nearby Indiana areas.

Get a Free Estimate Today
Or call us now at (317) 755-6444

 

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