Does your home’s vinyl siding look a little worn out?
It may be time for a cleaning.
Thankfully, with a little bit of know-how, cleaning vinyl siding can be a breeze.
In this blog post, we’ll uncover three simple ways to keep your vinyl siding looking clean and spotless no matter what season it is.
So, let’s grab some gear and get started!
How Often Should You Clean Your Siding?
Vinyl siding is a popular choice for many homeowners due to its low maintenance and long-lasting durability. But even though it requires less upkeep than other materials, it still requires some attention to keep it in top shape.
While factors such as location, weather conditions, and the age of the siding itself can impact how often you need to clean it, a general rule of thumb is to clean your vinyl siding at least once a year.
This regular cleaning helps to remove dirt, grime, and other debris that can accumulate on the surface – as well as prevent any potential damage that could be caused by mold or mildew.
Method 1: Cloth and Bucket
Nothing beats the classics. While there are certainly more modern cleaning tools available, you can choose to clean it the old-fashioned way.
Use soft, microfiber cloths (or a long-handled, soft-bristled brush) along with a bucket of cleaning solution.
This option not only saves you money, but it also gives you control over the process. That way, you can be sure you don’t cause any damage to the siding. Plus, you’ll get a little exercise in the process!
You’ve got plenty of choices when it comes to the cleaning solution:
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- Fill a bucket with 70% water and 30% vinegar (creating a natural cleaner that removes mold and mildew)
- General household cleaner
- A concentrated germicidal bleach
- A vinyl siding cleaner
Any and all of these cleaners can make a big difference – it’s mostly down to your personal taste and budget.
Method 2: Hose and Brush
Another approach is to use a garden hose and a long-handled, soft-bristled brush.
Many vinyl siding cleaners are available in spray bottles that attach directly to your garden hose. This will give you the added benefit of water pressure, while still being gentle on your siding.
Next, get in there with the brush.
Start at the top of the siding and work your way down, using a back-and-forth motion to scrub away dirt and grime. Make sure to avoid any seams or edges, so you don’t accidentally damage them.
Method 3: Power Washer
This may be the most popular method, if for no other reason than it gives you the opportunity to blast that dirt right off the face of the planet.
But is it the best method? That’s up for debate.
There are also those who argue that power washing really is the best option for a thorough, efficient cleaning – as long as it’s done carefully.
Meanwhile, other experts suggest that it can cause more harm than good. Especially with the temptation to crank the pressure up way too high. This often results in moisture intrusion, discoloration, or even damaged siding.
At the end of the day, though, the choice is yours.
But one thing’s for sure: if you do decide to use a power washer, proceed with caution to avoid wrecking your beautiful vinyl siding.
Improve the Look of Your Home Today
Cleaning vinyl siding is an essential home task that can improve the look of your house. With just a few common household supplies and some basic know-how, you can keep the exterior of your home spotless anytime!
At D&W Windows & Sunrooms, our team of experienced technicians will provide you with all the resources necessary to have perfect-looking vinyl siding that lasts for years.
We offer premier services from start to finish, ensuring quality results every single time – no matter what season it is.
Contact D&W Windows and Sunrooms for a free estimate today!