Moss/Mildew around window seals

[Shaggy1970]

The new to me trailer seems like it has moss/mildew growing around the window seals, almost anywhere there is plastic. Anyone know a good way to get rid of the moss which will be safe for the clear coat and won't damage it. The unit had been had been sitting outside Portland for the last three years, in a forest probably from what I gather.

[cameront120]

This is common for those of us on the west coast. Soap and water works. Just wash as you would your car. Avoid the use of pressure washers as these can compromise the seams in the aluminium and allow water ingress.

[Shaggy1970]

Cameron,
Do you know of a treatment that can be applied that would prevent it from coming back. I am reading that moss is like rust and cancer, keeps coming back unless its all removed.

[cameront120]

You're in Spokane, which is a dry climate. I doubt you'll see it come back unless you have it parked in a damp, dark place.

[cameront120]

By the way, are you certain it's moss and not algae?

[Shaggy1970]

Originally Posted by cameront120

By the way, are you certain it's moss and not algae?

I think its both but since I am not a biology major I am not sure to be honest. I didn't notice it when I picked it up but now that I can go over it with a fine tooth comb, I lifted the plastic window cover in the front and see it everywhere. The other windows have it too. Actually when I look close enough I see it on the sealant used in-between every seam and around every door. Read that bleach is the killer to both moss and algae but I am not putting beach on the finish.

[cameront120]

Well, I had it growing on my trailer over the winter and would just wash it off each spring. No biggie. I'd just was it off with soap and water and leave it at that. There's nothing organic for it get it roots into (so to speak), so I always figured it was just surface growth. Always washes off easily, so I never really gave it a second thought. Like I said, you're in a dry climate and doubt it'll be a continuing issue for you.

[Howard L.]

Try vinegar also. Approved for the clear coat.