Mold, Mildew And Moss: Protect Your Canvas Patio Cover

Mold, mildew and moss are the enemies of canvas patio covers. They can stain or destroy the canvas in little time. These annoying and destructive organisms all grow best in moisture and shade. One of the best ways to protect your canvas patio cover from the damaging effects of moss, mildew and mold is to prevent them from growing in the first place. By creating hostile conditions, you can help keep your canvas clean and clear of these problems.

Eliminate Shady Conditions

If your patio canvas is always kept in shade by nearby trees, vining plants or tall shrubs, one of the first things that you can do to prevent growth of unwanted organisms is to trim back shade and let light in. As you prune, remove any fallen branches, leaves and other debris, as this kind of yard waste can trap moisture under the canvas and keep large portions of the canvas in deep shade.  

Remove Excess Moisture

Overhanging branches can do more damage than simply block out overhead light. When it rains, water falls from the leaves of trees keeps the canvas wet long after the rains have ended. Even if you don't need to trim back branches to prevent the sunlight from being blocked, you should still cut branches back to prevent the canvas from staying wet after a rainstorm.

Clean Off Debris

Clean off your canvas on a quarterly or seasonal basis, and more often in the fall and winter when leaves are likely to be falling from nearby trees. This will ensure that the canvas is exposed to as much sunlight as possible throughout the day.

Clean Your Patio Cover Regularly

Treat patio covers with vinegar at the first sign of mold, mildew or moss, and on a seasonal basis even if you see no indications that your canvas has this kind of problem. To clean the canvas, spray the surface with straight vinegar and use a long-handled brush to wipe down the cover. Let the vinegar sit for a while, then spray down the canvas with a strong jet of water from the hose.

For more tips and ways to keep your patio cover clean, speak with the contractor who helped install it. He or she will be able to tell you ways that you can protect your cover and keep it looking beautiful for many years to come. If you don't already have a patio contractor, talk with a business such as Allied Awning.  

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