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How do I get rid of ivy on my house walls?

Published in Ivy Removal 4 mins read

To effectively remove ivy from your house walls, you'll need to follow a methodical approach, starting with the main plant and moving to the stubborn residues and tendrils. The most challenging part is often the removal of the tenacious tendrils that cling tightly to the wall surface.

Essential Steps for Ivy Removal from House Walls

Removing ivy can be a laborious task, but with the right steps and tools, you can restore your walls. Here’s a detailed guide focusing on safely and effectively eliminating ivy and its clinging tendrils.

1. Initial Ivy Trimming and Detachment

Before tackling the embedded tendrils, you need to remove the bulk of the ivy growth.

  • Cut the Base: Identify the main stems of the ivy plant near the ground and cut them using loppers or a saw. Cut them about 1-2 feet above the ground to prevent regrowth from the same roots.
  • Allow to Dry: Once cut, the ivy will start to die. Allow it to dry out for a few weeks. This makes it lighter and easier to pull away from the wall.
  • Careful Removal: After the ivy has dried, gently pull the dead vines away from the wall. Be cautious not to damage the wall surface, especially if it's rendered or has loose mortar. For high areas, use a ladder or extendable tools.

2. Removing Stubborn Ivy Residue and Tendrils

Once the main bulk of the ivy is gone, you'll be left with the tenacious tendrils and residue. This is where specialized cleaning comes into play as highlighted in expert recommendations.

According to advice for effective ivy removal, the process for the remaining residue involves specific chemical and cleaning methods:

  1. Soak with a Softening Chemical: First, you will need to soak the ivy left on the wall with a chemical that will soften it. This chemical helps to loosen the grip of the tendrils on the wall surface. Ensure the chemical is appropriate for your wall material to avoid damage.
  2. Steam Clean: After around 30 minutes of soaking, you will need to steam clean the ivy and tendrils to remove the rest. A steam cleaner uses hot, high-pressure steam to further loosen and remove the softened tendrils without harsh abrasion.
  3. Blast Clean (If Necessary): On some occasions, you may even need to blast clean the ivy tendrils to remove them completely. This could involve using a pressure washer, but it must be done with extreme caution. The high force of a pressure washer can damage mortar, brickwork, or render if not used correctly or if the wall is old or delicate.

3. Final Wall Inspection and Repair

After the ivy and its tendrils are completely removed, inspect your wall for any damage.

  • Check for Damage: Look for cracked mortar, chipped bricks, or loosened rendering that might have occurred during the ivy's growth or removal.
  • Clean Surfaces: Use a stiff brush to remove any remaining small particles or dirt.
  • Perform Repairs: Address any damage promptly to prevent further issues, such as water ingress. This might involve repointing mortar or patching render.

Important Safety Precautions

When undertaking ivy removal, safety is paramount.

  • Protective Gear: Always wear gloves, eye protection, and long sleeves to protect your skin from plant irritants and cleaning chemicals.
  • Ladder Safety: If working at heights, ensure your ladder is stable on a firm, level surface. Have someone spot you if possible.
  • Chemical Handling: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for any chemicals used. Ensure adequate ventilation and avoid contact with skin and eyes.
  • Pressure Washer Use: If using a pressure washer, start with a low-pressure setting and an appropriate nozzle. Keep a safe distance from the wall to avoid damage.

Recommended Tools and Materials

Category Item Purpose
Cutting Tools Loppers, Pruning Shears, Saw Cutting thick ivy stems.
Removal Tools Stiff Wire Brush, Scraper Removing dried ivy and loose tendrils.
Cleaning Agents Ivy Softening Chemical, Water Loosening tendrils and general cleaning.
Cleaning Gear Steam Cleaner, Pressure Washer (Careful use!) Removing stubborn tendrils and residue.
Safety Gear Gloves, Eye Protection, Long Sleeves Protecting hands, eyes, and skin.
Access Sturdy Ladder, Scaffolding Reaching high sections of the wall.

By following these steps, you can effectively get rid of ivy from your house walls, leaving them clean and free from invasive growth.