Red Algae Removal · Athlone & the Midlands
Red Algae Removal in Athlone & the Midlands
That red, orange or rusty staining on your walls is not rust or dirt. It is a type of algae that thrives in damp Irish conditions. We remove it safely from render, pebbledash, roofs, patios and paths, and treat the surface so it stays away.
- Fully insured
- Safe soft-wash treatment
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Trusted by local businesses
What is red algae?
Why Red Staining Appears on Irish Homes
Red algae, often called Trentepohlia, is a common problem on homes across the Midlands. It shows up as red, orange or rusty-brown patches and streaks, usually on north-facing walls, gable ends and areas that stay damp and shaded for long periods. It is often mistaken for rust or iron staining from the render.
It grows on painted and unpainted render, pebbledash, stone, brick, roof tiles and paving. Because it lives in the surface rather than just sitting on it, a normal wash or a quick power wash will not shift it. High pressure can also damage render and paintwork, and simply painting over it rarely lasts.
We use a professional soft-wash treatment designed to kill red algae at the root. The solution is applied at low pressure, left to work, then rinsed away, lifting the staining without harming the surface. A final biocide treatment helps stop it from coming back, so your walls stay clean for years rather than months.
Red algae staining on a gable end, a common sight on Irish homes.
Where we remove it
Red Algae Removal From Every Surface
Red algae can grow almost anywhere that stays damp. We treat it safely on every part of your property.
House Walls
Painted render, nap and smooth plaster are cleaned with a low-pressure soft wash that will not damage paint or render.
Pebbledash
The rough surface of pebbledash traps algae. Our treatment soaks in and kills it without blasting loose the stones.
Gable Ends
North-facing gable ends are where red algae shows up most. We reach them safely with extension poles and ladders.
Roofs
Red and orange staining on roof tiles and slate is treated along with moss and lichen for a fully clean roof.
Patios & Paving
Red algae on patios, slabs and paving can be slippery as well as unsightly. We clean and treat it for a safer surface.
Driveways & Paths
We remove red algae from driveways, paths and steps, along with green algae and moss.
How it works
Our Red Algae Removal Process
Inspect the Surface
We identify the type of staining and the surface, so the right treatment and strength are used.
Apply Soft-Wash Treatment
A specialist algae treatment is applied at low pressure and left to work into the surface.
Rinse Clean
The treatment and dead algae are rinsed away gently, leaving walls clean without pressure damage.
Protect
A biocide is applied to slow regrowth, keeping your walls and paving cleaner for much longer.
Customer reviews
What Our Customers Say
Why choose us
Why Choose M.F. Power Washing
We are an Athlone-based, family-run business cleaning homes and businesses across the Midlands. Red algae is something we treat every week, and we know how to remove it without damaging your property.
Safe for Render & Paint
Low-pressure soft washing protects paintwork, render and pebbledash.
Treats the Root Cause
We kill the algae in the surface, not just the staining on top.
Longer-lasting Results
A protective biocide keeps red algae from coming straight back.
Fully Insured
Full public liability insurance on every job.
Recent work
Recent Cleaning Work
FAQs
Red Algae FAQs
What causes red algae on walls?
Red algae grows on surfaces that stay damp and shaded, such as north-facing walls and gable ends. Ireland’s mild, wet weather makes it very common here, especially on rendered and pebbledashed houses.
Is red algae the same as rust?
No. It looks like rust staining, but it is a living algae. That is why it keeps returning if it is painted over or only washed off the surface.
Will you use a pressure washer on my walls?
No. Walls are cleaned with a low-pressure soft-wash treatment. High pressure can damage render, paint and pebbledash, and it does not kill the algae properly.
How long does it take for the staining to disappear?
Most staining lifts on the day of treatment. Heavier growth can continue to fade over the following weeks as the treatment keeps working and rain washes away the dead algae.
Will the red algae come back?
Our final biocide treatment slows regrowth considerably. In damp spots it can eventually return after several years, but the results last far longer than washing alone.
Should I clean my walls before painting?
Yes. Painting over red algae traps it under the new paint, and it soon shows through again. Treating it first gives the paint a clean, sound surface to bond to.
Get Rid of Red Algae for Good
Request a free, no-obligation quote for red algae removal anywhere in Athlone and the Midlands.