The proper methods for cleaning vinyl, aluminum, or wood siding are crucial in improving the longevity nad durability of the siding.
The proper methods for cleaning vinyl, aluminum, or wood siding are crucial in improving the longevity nad durability of the siding.
View Siding Guide RSS feedThe proper methods for cleaning vinyl, aluminum, or wood siding are crucial in improving the longevity nad durability of the siding. Following the correct procedures will give homeowners the best chance of making their siding worth the money spent.
Staying informed on the best methods for cleaning and preserving siding will ensure that your vinyl, aluminum or wood siding will last for as long as possible.
The majority of vinyl siding is maintenance free. However, all siding that is exposed to any type of weather will require occasional cleaning. Normally, vinyl siding can be cleaned with a simple garden hose. For stubborn stains, homeowners can equip their hose with a long-handled, soft-bristled car brush. If the stain still persists, a 1/3 cup of powdered laundry detergent and a 2/3 cup of powdered household cleaner mixed with a gallon of water can be more helpful.
If mildew is a problem, which can be common in certain parts of the country, substitute a quart of 5 percent sodium hypochloride (ordinary household bleach) for the gallon of water. This formula can be used to clean other types of siding as well.
Since vinyl siding is made from organic materials it is crucial to remember that the siding will melt or even burn if exposed to flame or heat. It is very necessary to keep items, such as barbecues and combustible materials (leaves, trash, mulch) away from the vinyl siding. Flames and heat can also cause the siding to soften, sag, melt or burn, exposing the building materials underneath. Most underlayment materials are also organic so it is essential to install these materials in accordance with all building codes and fire regulations.
Similar to vinyl siding, aluminum siding is also maintenance free for the most part. It is recommended to clean aluminum siding once a year and repaint it when needed. Repainting is recommended when chalking or oxidation occurs.
Chalking cannot be prevented, but it can be removed. Aluminum siding needs to be sanded with fine-grit paper, and metal primer is best. Spray painting usually yields the best results. In case of denting, the damaged sections can often be pushed out, but it is possible that the particular panel might need to be replaced along with the panels above and below the damage. Use a low pressure when using a pressure washer to clean the siding or denting could occur. Also, use a soft-bristled brush when cleaning.
All wood siding can be subject to wood rot, termites, and moisture problems which can result in cracking, splitting and expansion. According to www.1st-vinyl-siding.com treat wood siding with oil or a stain to prevent wood rot. Cedar, redwood, and cypress are better at withstanding wear and tear than other types of wood but they have to be painted or restained every few years. If wood siding is exposed to moist elements for too long, the siding can expand or rot.
Wood siding can be cleaned by professional companies by steam cleaning or pressure washing. It is not advised to pressure wash wood siding without professional help because too much pressure can ruin the siding and remove paint. Mildewcide can be purchased to help in the cleaning process.
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