Vegetative growth is moss, algae, lichen, vines, or small plants taking root on or in a masonry surface, and while some of it is just cosmetic, growth rooted in mortar joints or cracks can widen them and speed up water damage.
Moss and algae need moisture to survive, so their presence on a wall or patio is usually a sign that surface is staying damp longer than it should, whether from shade, poor drainage, or an exposure that doesn't dry out between rains. Surface growth on stone or brick faces is mostly cosmetic and can be cleaned. The bigger concern is roots working into an existing mortar joint or crack, because roots expand as they grow and can pry the joint open further.
On stone walls and shaded patios around Hillsville and Fancy Gap, we see vegetative growth most on north-facing and heavily wooded sites where surfaces rarely get direct sun to dry out. Left alone long enough, that growth holds moisture against the mortar year-round, which gives freeze-thaw cycles more water to work with all winter. Trimming back overhanging branches and improving drainage around a wall often does more to slow regrowth than a one-time cleaning does.
More masonry vocabulary from the glossary.
The services where this term comes up.
Chelo's Brick & Stone serves Hillsville, Galax, Wytheville, Fancy Gap, and Independence, VA. Call for a straight answer and a free on-site estimate.
