Vinyl siding maintenance comes down to three habits: look it over once or twice a year, wash it about once a year, and keep trees and shrubs from rubbing against it. Vinyl does not ask for much compared with wood, where you may be replacing shingles and worrying about rot, but dirt, stains and scratches are still inevitable. A little regular care keeps the color fresh and the panels in good shape.
Start With a Walk Around the House
Spring is a great time to take a slow walk around your home. Look for areas that need a good scrubbing and make a note of them. Check for anything loose, cracked or pulled away while you are at it.
Do the same for everything attached to the walls. Winter is hard on window frames, door trim and entryways, and this is the easiest time to spot peeling, soft wood or failed caulk. If the windows have seen better days, low-maintenance vinyl replacement windows clean up as easily as the siding does.
How to Clean Vinyl Siding
Identify the Dirt First
One of the main reasons people choose vinyl siding for their home is its easy upkeep. Often you need nothing more than a spray from the garden hose.
For tougher spots, figure out what you are dealing with. Is it dirt or sand kicked up from the flower beds? A splatter of grease near the grill? Mold or mildew on a shaded wall? Knowing the type of stain helps you choose the right detergent and scrubbing method.
Wash It Once a Year
Do not just wait for the rain. Washing your car keeps the paint looking fresh, and cleaning your siding once a year does the same for its color. It also removes stuck-on dirt before it can cause lasting stains.
You will need a hose, a sponge, a stiff-bristle brush, a bucket and dish or laundry detergent mixed into soapy water. Cover nearby plants and bushes with a tarp. Scrub the surface with the brush dipped in soapy water, then rinse with the hose.
Go Easy on Chemicals and Pressure
Avoid harsh chemicals and extreme water pressure. Both can damage the surface. A pressure washer can help with heavy built-up grime, but keep the pressure low and take care not to drive water up behind the panels. The goal is a clean house with siding that keeps its physical integrity.
Protect the Siding From Scratches
Overgrown shrubbery and vinyl siding do not mix. Branches that rub against the wall in the wind are a common cause of scratches and other damage. Keep trees and bushes trimmed back so there is a gap between them and the house. If plants are too close to move, trim them regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should vinyl siding be cleaned?
Once a year is enough for most homes. Shaded walls that grow mildew or walls near a busy road may need a second rinse.
Can I pressure wash vinyl siding?
You can, with care. Use low pressure, keep the spray level rather than pointed upward, and try a hose and brush first, since that is often all it takes.
What soap is safe for vinyl siding?
Ordinary dish soap or laundry detergent in a bucket of water handles most dirt. Skip harsh solvents, which can harm the finish.
Finish the Job at the Front Door
Clean siding makes everything next to it stand out, for better or worse. If your wash day leaves a faded door or a dented storm door looking tired, Aladdin Inc can help with new entry doors and storm doors. We have been improving Connecticut home exteriors since 1949. Contact our Wallingford office or call (203) 776-9996.