Yes it can have a wood grain look or it can be smooth. Mildew and mold will grow on anything if the conditions are right. The way to keep it away is to wash your house every year to get the dirt and mildew off before it overtakes you house, and Jomax is a good product to use and all you need is a pump up garden sprayer and a hose. I know everyone talks about power washing, but if you want to really get a house clean it is not the best way.