Ivy can add a charming, rustic look to your home, but it can also cause significant damage to your siding, mortar, and even the structural integrity of your house. Removing ivy from your home is a task that requires patience and care to avoid damage. In this article, we’ll explore the step-by-step process of safely removing ivy from your house, as well as methods to prevent its regrowth. In the video above, This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook shows the proper techniques for ivy removal.
Understanding the Risks of Ivy on Your House
Before diving into the removal process, it’s important to understand why ivy can be problematic for your home:
Structural Damage
Ivy tendrils can work their way into small cracks and crevices in your home’s exterior—like under your siding—gradually widening them as the plant grows. This can lead to water infiltration and structural damage over time. If this happens, you could be left with extensive repairs.
Moisture Retention
The dense foliage of ivy can trap moisture against your home’s surface, promoting the growth of mold and mildew. This can lead to rot in wooden siding or deterioration of other materials. Such conditions can become a breeding ground for fungi, which may need a specific treatment to remove it.
Pest Habitat
Ivy provides an ideal habitat for various pests, including insects and rodents. These unwanted guests can then find their way into your home through gaps the ivy makes. For example, carpenter ants and termites are drawn to the moist environment that ivy helps maintain.
Preparing for Ivy Removal
Before you begin the removal process, gather the necessary tools and take some preparatory steps:
Tools and Materials Needed
- Hand pruners
- Loppers
- Plastic trash bags
- Orbital sander (optional)
- Sandpaper (120 grit)
- Herbicide
- Protective gear (gloves, safety glasses, long sleeves)
- Ladder or scaffolding (if necessary for reaching high areas)
Safety Precautions
Wear protective gear, including gloves, safety glasses, and long sleeves to avoid skin irritation from the ivy and potential hidden pests. Use caution when working on ladders or elevated surfaces to prevent falls. Always have someone spot you when using a ladder. Also, be aware of potential wasp nests or other pests hiding in the ivy—their stings and bites can pose significant risks—especially when you’re high up on a ladder.
Best Time for Removal
The ideal time to remove ivy is during the dormant season, typically late fall or winter. This is when the plant’s grip on the surface is weakest, making removal easier and less likely to damage your siding. Moreover, the absence of foliage makes it easier to identify and access the main stems and roots.
Step-By-Step Ivy Removal Process
Follow these steps to safely and effectively remove ivy from your house:
- Gently pull ivy from the house—start with the least invasive method.
- Cut stubborn ivy with hand pruners when necessary.
- Scrape siding to remove dead branches and dried leaves.
- Sand the siding to remove stubborn ivy stains and residue.
- Cut ivy stems close to the ground with loppers to prevent immediate regrowth.
- Collect ivy and dispose of it in plastic trash bags.
- Apply herbicide to remaining ivy leaves in spring for long-term prevention.
Removing Ivy from the Wall
Begin by gently pulling the ivy away from the wall, starting at the top and working your way down. If you feel any resistance, stop and use hand pruners to cut the vine. This approach helps prevent damage to your home’s siding or exterior finish. If the ivy has penetrated cracks, avoid yanking, as the force can enlarge these openings and damage your home.
Dealing with Stubborn Vines
For particularly stubborn vines, use hand pruners to cut them away from the wall. Be careful not to pull too hard, which could damage the surface beneath. Work methodically, section by section, to ensure thorough removal. It’s useful to have both hand pruners and loppers available for different thicknesses of vines.
Cleaning the Surface
After removing the bulk of the ivy, you will find dead pieces and residue clinging to the surface. Use a scraper to remove them carefully. For more stubborn stains, consider using an orbital sander with 120-grit sandpaper. Be careful, as this may remove some paint along with the ivy residue.
Removing Ivy from the Ground
Cut the ivy stems close to the ground using loppers. This limits regrowth and makes disposal easier. Collect all the removed ivy and place it in plastic trash bags for disposal. Be thorough in your cleanup to avoid leaving behind any fragments that could regrow.
Preventing Ivy Regrowth
To ensure the ivy doesn’t return, follow these steps:
Applying Herbicide
In the spring, when new growth appears, apply a herbicide directly to the leaves of any remaining ivy stems. This will kill the plant down to its roots, stopping it from regrowing completely.
Monitoring and Maintenance
Regularly inspect the area for new ivy growth and remove treat it right away with a herbicide. Consistent monitoring is key to preventing re-infestation. Consider installing a physical barrier, such as a root barrier or gravel strip, around your home’s foundation to discourage new growth. Routine checks, especially after the rainy season, can help manage any returned sprouts before they get out of hand.
Alternative Ground Covers
If you enjoyed the look of ivy but want a less invasive option, consider planting alternative ground covers such as:
- Creeping phlox
- Pachysandra
- Periwinkle
- Creeping thyme
These plants can provide a similar aesthetic without the risks associated with ivy. They also offer the added benefit of less maintenance and a lower risk of pest infestations.
Repairing Damage Caused by Ivy
After removing the ivy, you may need to address any damage it has caused:
Inspecting for Damage
Carefully examine your home’s exterior for any cracks, loose mortar, or damaged siding caused or exacerbated by the ivy. A detailed inspection prevents you from overlooking minor damages, which could escalate into significant problems later.
Repainting
As mentioned, removing ivy may also remove some paint. After the surface is clean and dry, apply a primer coat followed by a finish coat. High-quality exterior paint will help protect against future growth and improve the aesthetic appeal of your home. Consider choosing paint with mold and mildew-resistant properties for added protection.
Professional Assessment
If you notice significant damage or are unsure about the extent of repairs needed, consider consulting a professional contractor for an assessment and repair recommendations. Experts can give you advice on the best restoration methods for damaged surfaces.
Our Conclusion
Removing ivy from your house can be a time-consuming but necessary task to protect your home from damage and pests. By following these steps and taking preventive measures, you can safely remove ivy and maintain a healthy, ivy-free home. Consistent monitoring and regular maintenance will help you prevent future ivy infestations and safeguard your home against structural damage.
