Dirty siding is not a problem that should be ignored. Mold and algae can form over time, and leaving it to grow on your siding can cause early deterioration. Simply cleaning your siding regularly can save you the stress and thousands of dollars down the line.
What Do I Do When My Siding Gets Dirty?
Many homeowners do not know how to properly clean siding, and therefore they choose not to clean at all. When your siding shows noticeable dirt or mold, it’s time to give it a proper cleaning Although the cleaning process is not hard, it’s important that the appropriate products are used. The combination of cleaning solution, a garden hose and light scrubbing will get your siding looking brand new.
Should I Use a Power Washer?
There are a variety of home siding types, all which require proper, regular cleaning to avoid deterioration. Pressure washing is a great option for homes that are made out of stone or stucco, but siding such as vinyl requires a less invasive washing process. Using a power washer can cause water to get trapped behind the siding, causing more mold to form. Use of a pressure washer on fiber cement, pressed board and vinyl siding can damage the siding and, in many cases, void any warranty. Always be cautious when using a pressure washer as some higher PSI settings can actually etch concrete.
What Cleaner Should I Use?
Vinyl is one of the most popular siding types throughout the country, and it requires a special type of cleaner. Vinyl siding cleaner is sold nearly anywhere. Brands such as Clorox and Simple Green make products that are specially formulated to be effective and minimally invasive. It’s important to read instructions properly to ensure you’re using the correct amount for maximum effectiveness.
Will Bleach Cause Damage?
For stubborn stains or serious mold and mildew, bleach may need to be used. Using it will not harm siding if it’s diluted correctly and not used excessively. Bleach can cause more harm to the user, so it’s important to wear gloves or a mask.
While siding won’t last forever, it should last a long time. We’ve seen Brickstone siding installations, for example, look great at 65 years! Call the experts at Window World TX for questions about installing new siding on your home.
