If you have ever parked your car close to mulch or other kinds of organic matter, you can see tiny black specks on your car’s exterior. These specks can be tough to remove and might even cause damage on your car’s paint if not addressed soon. These specks are caused by a fungus called Artillery Fungus, and it could be a nightmare for car owners.
Which Trees are Responsible for Artillery Fungus in Northern Virginia?
The artillery fungus is known to be generated by a variety of trees found in Northern Virginia. These trees include but are not limited to oak, maple, pine, and poplar. The fungus thrives in moist environments and typically grows on decaying organic matter such as mulch or wood chips. It is important to note that not all trees in Northern Virginia will generate artillery fungus, but these particular species are more prone to its growth. The fungus releases sticky spore masses that can adhere to surfaces, including buildings and vehicles, causing unsightly black spots that are difficult to remove.
On this blog post, we are going to discover what Artillery Fungus is, the way it impacts your car, and what steps you could take to prevent and get rid of it. We will also take a look at how car detailing can help to protect your car from Artillery Fungus and keep it looking top-notch.
What Is Artillery Fungus?
Artillery Fungus, is a kind of fungus that grows on organic matter which includes mulch, decaying wood, or plant particles. It is called Artillery Fungus as it shoots out tiny black spores that can fly up to twenty feet in the air. These spores are small, about the size of the tip of a pin, and can stick to whatever they come into contact with, including vehicles.
How Does Artillery Fungus Affect Your Car?
When Artillery Fungus spores land on your car, they can be tough to get off your paint and might even cause damage to your car’s paint. The spores are small and sticky, and they adhere to the surface of your vehicle like glue. If not removed quickly, the spores can become embedded in the paint, making removal even harder.
The spores can also cause a condition known as “shotgun fungus,” which is characterized by small black specks on your car’s paint. These specks can be difficult to remove and might leave permanent marks on your car’s surface. If left unchecked, Artillery Fungus can cause sizable damage on your car’s paint and may be costly to restore.
How Car Detailing Can Prevent Artillery Fungus
Car detailing plays a crucial role in preventing artillery fungus from damaging the exterior of vehicles. By thoroughly cleaning and maintaining the surface of the car, detailing helps to remove any spores or residue that may attract artillery fungus.
This is important because artillery fungus is known to be attracted to organic matter such as pollen, dust, and dirt, which can easily accumulate on the surface of a vehicle. Regular detailing can help to eliminate these attractants and reduce the risk of artillery fungus spores latching onto the car.
In addition to cleaning the exterior of the car, detailing also involves applying protective coatings and sealants that create a barrier against artillery fungus. These coatings help to prevent spores from adhering to the surface of the vehicle, making it easier to clean and maintain.
By creating a protective layer, detailing can significantly reduce the likelihood of artillery fungus causing unsightly spots and damage to the car’s paintwork. This proactive approach can save car owners time and money in the long run by avoiding the need for costly repairs or repainting.
Furthermore, car detailing involves thorough inspection and maintenance of all areas of the vehicle, including the wheels, tires, and undercarriage where artillery fungus spores can hide and thrive.
By paying attention to these often overlooked areas, detailing helps to ensure that the entire vehicle is properly cleaned and protected from potential artillery fungus infestations.
By incorporating car detailing into a regular maintenance routine, car owners can effectively safeguard their vehicles against artillery fungus and maintain the appearance and value of their investment for years to come.
How Can You Prevent And Eliminate Artillery Fungus From Your Vehicle?
Prevention is the best defense against Artillery Fungus. One way to stop the fungus from landing in your automobile is to avoid parking your car near mulch or different kinds of organic matter. If you must park near organic matter like mulch, use a car cover to stop the spores from landing on your paint.
2 Ways to Remove Artillery Fungus:
- Water and White Vinegar Mixture
- Start by mixing equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. This solution will help break down the stubborn spores left behind by the fungus. Spray the affected areas generously with the vinegar solution and let it sit for a few minutes to penetrate the spores.
- After allowing the vinegar solution to work its magic, use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to gently scrub the affected areas. Be careful not to scrub too hard, as this could damage the paint on your car. Continue scrubbing until you see the spores start to lift off the surface of the car.
- Once you have scrubbed away the artillery fungus spores, rinse the affected areas thoroughly with clean water. Use a microfiber cloth to dry the car and inspect the surface to ensure all traces of the fungus have been removed. If any spores remain, repeat the process until your car is free from artillery fungus. Remember to wash your car regularly to prevent future outbreaks of this pesky fungus.
- Pressure wash, clay bar, and bug & tar remover
1. Start by using an electric pressure washer. Make sure to set the pressure washer to a low setting to avoid damaging the paint on your car. Begin by spraying the affected areas with the pressure washer, focusing on the spots where the fungus is most concentrated. The high-pressure water will help loosen the fungus from the surface of your car, making it easier to remove.
2. After using the pressure washer, you can use a clay bar to further remove any remaining artillery fungus. Simply spray a lubricant onto the surface of your car and then gently rub the clay bar back and forth over the affected areas. The clay bar will help lift any stubborn fungus particles that the pressure washer may have missed. Be sure to regularly knead the clay bar to expose a clean surface and prevent recontamination.
3. Finally, to ensure that all traces of artillery fungus are removed from your car, you can use a bug and tar remover. Apply the remover to a clean microfiber cloth and gently rub it onto the affected areas. The bug and tar remover will help dissolve any remaining fungus residue, leaving your car looking clean and spotless. Remember to follow up with a thorough wash and wax to protect your car’s paint and prevent future fungus growth.
Do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have artillery fungus on your car and need to schedule an exterior detail with us. Artillery Fungus can be a nightmare, but there are ways to fix it.