Increase the Life Cycle of Siding with Regular Cleaning & Maintenance
Vinyl siding is available in a wide range of colors, profiles and architectural trims and is the number one choice of homeowners across America wishing to clad the exterior of their homes. Almost twice the number of homeowners chooses vinyl siding over any other material according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
The exterior cladding of a home is expected to perform two functions – protection from the elements and look aesthetically pleasing. Vinyl siding is capable of keeping its looks for a long period of time while maintaining the ability to withstand storm force winds (siding is normally certified for winds upwards of 110 mph) and resist extreme variations in both heat and cold as well as repel moisture.
You’ll know when it’s time to install new siding to your home by signs or wear and tear or degradation in appearance. But, the life cycle of your siding can be greatly enhanced by knowing some simple cleaning and maintenance tips.
SIDING MAINTENANCE
How do I prevent discoloration of vinyl siding?
When using other products on your home or garden such as stains and sealants or insecticides, remember to cover any nearby vinyl siding so as not to stain. Check the product labels before application in order to determine any potential problems.
Does heat have any effect on vinyl siding?
If exposed to extreme heat vinyl siding will melt, but not combust unless it is directly exposed to flames. No matter what kind of siding covers your home, it’s wise to keep grills and materials that could catch fire easily, such as leaves and trash, away from the structure.
Can vinyl siding warp from adverse concentrated reflected sunlight?
It isn’t easy to achieve the kinds of temperatures that can result in any kind of distortion to siding panels, but unusually concentrated sunlight can cause temperatures way above those from normal sun exposure. One rare such occasion occurs with energy efficient windows which can become concave, thus concentrating sunlight in a tiny area like a magnifying glass. Not many building materials are designed to withstand these temperatures, and vinyl siding is no exception. Blocking the path of the sun by placing trees or bushes in its way can help reduce the increase reflective energy and will usually eliminate the problem. Sunscreens and shades may also reduce the sun’s ability to damage siding.
Can vinyl siding be painted?
There is no need to ever paint vinyl siding. Painting also voids most manufacturers’ warranties should it be applied. Therefore, it’s best to check with the siding manufacturer first.
SIDING CLEANING
How do I wash vinyl siding?
Vinyl siding can be washed with just a soft cloth. For siding with a textured finish (or any other siding as well), a long-handled, soft-bristled brush can be used to get into the grooves. It’s best to start at the bottom of your home and work your way up making sure you rinse the cleaning solution off prior to it drying. Remember to cover any parts of your house that has brick facing so runoff doesn’t affect it.
Can vinyl siding be cleaned with a power washer?
First, check to see what the siding manufacturer recommends for power washer use. Some will not allow it on any of their products, while some will have pressure limitations and advise against using pressure washers near wall openings like doors, windows, electrical outlets and plumbing.
If there is no problem with using a power washer, make sure you point it straight rather than upwards as water may be forced behind the siding. Read your washer’s instructions carefully before use.
How do I remove mold and mildew?
Small spots of mold and mildew can be handled with cleaners such as Fantastik® or Windex®. For larger sections, a solution of vinegar (30%) and water (70%) has proven successful. Alternatively, you also could try the following solution: 1/3 cup (2 2/3 ounces) powdered laundry detergent (e.g., Tide®, Fab®, or equivalent), 2/3 cup (5 1/3 ounces) powdered household cleaner (e.g., Spic & Span®, Soilax®, or equivalent), 1 quart (32 fluid ounces) liquid laundry bleach, and 1 gallon (128 fluid ounces) of water.
What types of vinyl siding cleaners should I use for other stains?
NEVER use cleaners containing organic solvents, undiluted chlorine bleach, liquid grease remover, nail polish remover, or furniture polish or cleaners. They can affect the surface of the siding. A list of commonly accepted cleaners is provided in the box below. Make sure you check the cleaning product label before using it on a large section of siding. Once the stain has been removed, rinse with clean water.
Vinyl Siding Cleaners:- General cleaners (e.g., Simple Green®, Nice & Easy®, Armor All®, etc.) can be used to clean dirt, bird droppings, and spider webs. Stain-specific cleaners are listed below. Rinse all cleaners with water before they dry.
| SIDING STAIN | CLEANERS |
| Bubble Gum | Fantastik®, Murphy Oil Soap®, solution of vinegar (30%), water (70%) and Windex® |
| Crayon | Lestoil® |
| DAP (oil-based caulk) | Fantastik® |
| Felt-tip Pen | Fantastik®, water-based cleaners |
| Grass | Fantastik®, Lysol®, Murphy Oil Soap®, Windex® |
| Lithium (car) Grease | Fantastik®, Lestoil®, Murphy Oil Soap®, Windex® |
| Motor Oil | Fantastik®, Lysol®, Murphy Oil Soap®, Windex® |
| Paint | Brillo® Pad, Soft Scrub® |
| Pencil | Soft Scrub® |
| Rust | Fantastik®, Murphy Oil Soap®, Windex® |
| Tar | Soft Scrub® |
| Top Soil | Fantastik®, Lestoil®, Murphy Oil Soap® |
Call today if you would like a free, quick damage survey of your current siding or would like a professional opinion on your siding options. You’re under no obligation, but we can serve your siding needs quicker if you’re in one of the following local Maryland areas:
- MD counties: Howard County, Frederick County, Montgomery County, Carroll County and Baltimore County.
- Towns and Cities in MD: Westminster, Skyesville, Woodbine, New Windsor, Eldersburg, Owings Mills, Catonsville, Randallstown, Woodstock and surrounding areas.
- MD serviceable Zip codes: 21104, 21117, 21128, 21133, 21150, 21157, 21158, 21163, 21776, 21784 and 21797.
We Install only the highest quality siding products and all our work comes with a warranty.
