Ivy forms so-called adhesive roots. With these suction cups, the climbing plants are anchored to house facades. If the trees are removed, unsightly imprints remain. They can be removed with special methods that have to be matched to the substrate.
Ivy residue is very stubborn and difficult to remove
There are these procedures:
- sandblaster: ideal for sensitive facades
- high pressure cleaner: for robust substrates
- dry ice: environmentally friendly and gentle cleaning
- gas burner: if fire hazards have been ruled out
- hydrochloric acid: as a last resort
sandblaster
Root residues can be removed by jets of compressed air that spray sand onto the facade. Sandblasters have the benefit of getting results in hard-to-reach areas. They are gentle and are also suitable for sensitive clinker facades.
high pressure cleaner
With this method, the ivy remains are loosened and washed away with a hard jet of water. Hot water or the addition of lime-dissolving cleaning agents increase the effect. Stubborn residues can be removed with a dirt blaster, which is attached to the high-pressure cleaner (€119.90). The substrate is often damaged by the high pressure. Clinker joints or masonry cannot withstand the force of the jet, which increases the damage.
dry ice
Dry ice pellets made from frozen nitrogen are sprayed onto the façade at high pressure. This method blasts off root remains through contact with the minus 80 degree cold ice particles, whereby the subsoil is not affected. Even sensitive surfaces such as clinker can be cleaned gently. The pellets go into the gaseous state, leaving no residue. If the masonry has already been damaged, the pressure jets can further destroy the friable material.
gas burner
By flaming the adhesive roots, they dry out so that the residue can then be removed with a brush. Care should be taken when working with a flame, as insulation materials in the house walls can smolder and catch fire unnoticed due to the effect of heat.
hydrochloric acid
Plastered walls and joints can be cleaned with diluted hydrochloric acid, which you spread over the facade with a brush. It softens the calcareous subsoil and, once it has taken effect, ensures that the ivy roots come loose. Before brushing off the residue, you should rinse off the acid residue with water from the garden hose. Be aware that this method poses risks to your health and the environment.