Why House Washing Company's Use Sodium Hypochlorite & How It Works

Sodium hypochlorite, also known as bleach, is a powerful cleaning agent that is commonly used to remove moss and mould from various surfaces. Moss and mould can cause damage to buildings and outdoor structures, and can also pose health hazards to humans and animals. In this blog post, we will explore how sodium hypochlorite works as a cleaning agent for moss and mould, including its chemical properties, mode of action, and safety considerations.

Chemical Properties of Sodium Hypochlorite

Sodium hypochlorite is a chemical compound that is composed of sodium, oxygen, and chlorine. Its chemical formula is NaOCl, and it is typically available as a liquid solution that ranges in strength from 3% to 15% chlorine content. Sodium hypochlorite is a strong oxidising agent and has powerful antimicrobial properties that make it an effective disinfectant and cleaning agent.

Mode of Action of Sodium Hypochlorite

Sodium hypochlorite works as a cleaning agent for moss and mold by oxidizing their cell membranes and disrupting their cellular metabolism. When sodium hypochlorite is applied to a surface that is contaminated with moss or mold, it reacts with organic matter and breaks it down into simpler compounds. This process releases oxygen atoms, which then react with the cellular components of moss and mold, causing them to break down and die.

Sodium hypochlorite also has a bleaching effect on organic matter, which helps to remove stains and discolouration caused by moss and mould. This effect is particularly useful for removing moss and mould from surfaces such as concrete, brick, and stone, which can become discoloured and stained over time.

Safety Considerations

While sodium hypochlorite is a powerful cleaning agent, it is also potentially hazardous to human health and the environment. Sodium hypochlorite can cause skin and eye irritation, and can also release toxic fumes when it comes into contact with other chemicals such as ammonia or acid. As such, it is important to take appropriate safety precautions when using sodium hypochlorite as a cleaning agent.

When using sodium hypochlorite to remove moss and mold, it is important to wear protective clothing and eyewear to prevent skin and eye irritation. It is also important to avoid inhaling the fumes produced by sodium hypochlorite, as these can cause respiratory irritation and other health problems.

In addition to its effects on human health, sodium hypochlorite can also have negative impacts on the environment. When sodium hypochlorite is released into waterways or soil, it can react with organic matter and produce toxic byproducts such as dioxins and furans. As such, it is important to dispose of sodium hypochlorite safely and responsibly, and to avoid using it in areas where it can come into contact with water or soil in its undiluted form.

Conclusion

Sodium hypochlorite is a powerful cleaning agent that is effective at removing moss and mold from various surfaces. Its chemical properties and mode of action make it a highly effective disinfectant and bleaching agent, and it can help to restore the appearance and integrity of buildings and outdoor structures. However, it is important to take appropriate safety precautions when using sodium hypochlorite, and to dispose of it safely and responsibly to minimise its impact on human health and the environment. For any further information on how or why this chemical is used for exterior cleaning please contact Wash Rite on 0800101216 or visit www.washrite.co.nz and we would be happy to help.