Have you ever noticed that when your car just sits in the driveway for a few days you see a buildup of dirt? In the spring, it’s even worse. Your car can often be coated overnight in yellow tree pollen.
Your home suffers the same fate, attracting dirt, debris and pollen. Mold and mildew can also grow on dirty siding, especially on the north-facing sides of homes or other areas that don’t receive as much sunlight.1 Rain and melting snow only remove a slight amount of the mess.
Most homeowners have vinyl siding. Today’s vinyl siding is manufactured using advancements in technology that make it more durable and long-lasting with a superior ability to resist fading, warping, and cracking.
Several factors can affect the longevity of vinyl siding, including proper installation and keeping it clean.
Best Option
Choosing the right vinyl siding for your geographic area is an important factor in how well the siding performs over time. It is recommended that homeowners in rainy areas choose siding that has superior water resistance and if the climate is predominantly sunny homeowners should opt for siding that resists ultraviolet exposure.2
Have a Siding Contractor Install It
Another factor affecting longevity is professional installation. If your siding is installed by experts it is going to be properly sealed and secure, preventing issues like water infiltration and wind damage, leading to a longer product lifespan.3
Maintain Siding
Maintenance is also an important factor in siding longevity. It’s important for aesthetics, protection and efficiency. According to Certainteed, a major vinyl siding manufacturer, this includes “regular cleaning, inspections and timely repairs.”4 Spring is a good time to clean your siding as dirt, mold and debris can accelerate wear and tear.5
Inspect Your Siding and Clean It
Spring is also a good time to do a full inspection of your vinyl siding. Are there any areas where the siding is warping or buckling? Are there any areas with cracks or damage? Do you see loose or missing siding? If any of these conditions exist, it is best to call a professional siding installation company to assess and repair any issues.
Some homes require yearly cleaning and some can be cleaned every other year if you visually can’t see any debris build-up. If the siding is older and fragile or has gaps, it is best to forego the power washer and clean it by hand. Some manufacturers caution against using a power washer so it is best to check your warranty materials.
The Vinyl Siding Institute recommends hand-washing using a soft cloth or soft-bristled brush with a long handle. For this job it is best to start at the bottom and work your way upwards to prevent streaking. There are many cleaning solutions on the market to clean vinyl.
If you have landscaping near the foundation of the home it is best to find a cleaning solution that won’t harm tender plants. Dish soap and laundry detergent can also be used to clean dirt, grime, soot and chalk from siding. If mildew is present Certainteed recommends a certain formula which can be found by clicking here.
Working with ladders and water can be hazardous, especially for elderly homeowners, so hiring a professional may be your best solution to tackling the chore of cleaning your siding.
Preferred Residential Siding and Home Improvement Contractors
Keeping your home siding clean and maintained not only adds value to your home, it keeps it looking great while your home is protected and saves on energy bills. Excel Home Improvement in Romulus helps homeowners achieve this. We stay up-to-date on the latest technology, products and training in our home improvement services to ensure you maximize your investment into your home.
We specialize in home exteriors and provide the best residential roof installation and repair, siding installation and maintenance, as well as install the latest in gutter systems. Owning a home that looks beautiful on the outside is easier than you think. Contact our expert home improvement contractors anytime to schedule a Free inspection and estimate!
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1 Why It’s Important to Clean Your Home’s Siding by Rick Erickson, 8/20/2023
Link: https://www.homepro-inspection.com/new-blog/2023/8/19/why-its-important-to-clean-your-homes-siding-e
2, 3, 4, 5 Maximizing Your Siding’s Lifespan: A Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners
Link: https://www.certainteed.com/inspiration/how-tos/maximizing-your-sidings-lifespan-a-comprehensive-guide-homeowners
6 How To Clean Vinyl Siding
Link: https://www.certainteed.com/inspiration/how-tos/how-clean-vinyl-siding