Vinyl siding needs to be washed from time to time to remove the grime that has accumulated. Power washing is an effective way to clean vinyl siding. Here are some important things you should know before you get started.
Protect Yourself, Your Lawn, and Your Belongings
Focus on safety. Wear a mask, goggles, and gloves to protect yourself from chemicals, mold, and other hazardous substances.
You also need to protect your yard and outdoor furniture. Cover any nearby plants and move your lawn furniture to the garage or another safe location. If there are any outdoor electrical outlets in the vicinity, cover them before you begin power washing the vinyl siding.
Treat Problem Areas First
Look for places that are covered with mold or mildew and scrub them by hand before you begin cleaning with a power washer. Make a solution of bleach and water, spray it on the mold, remove as much as possible with a soft brush, and rinse with water. Then you can clean your home’s entire exterior using a power washer.
Clean Your Vinyl Siding the Right Way
Use a cleaning solution that’s appropriate for use in a power washer and use only the amount of pressure that’s necessary to clean the vinyl siding. Start with the power washer on a low setting, spray the cleaning solution on the bottom corner of the siding, and adjust the pressure until you find the setting that works best.
Stand several feet away from the house to avoid damaging the siding. Work in sections to remove all stains.
When using a power washer, be careful not to spray water upward. If you do, it will get behind the siding, where it can cause mold and other moisture-related problems. Always spray in a downward direction.
Let the cleaning solution sit for several minutes so it can loosen dried dirt and grime. Don’t allow the solution to dry completely because it can leave a residue or streaks. After the solution has had time to work, rinse the siding with plain water, working in sections from top to bottom. Then let the siding air dry.
Look for Damage While You Clean the Siding
When you clean your vinyl siding, you might notice cracks, bulging, or other signs of damage. If you do, it might be time to replace the siding. The team at Aladdin can install new vinyl siding that’s easy to maintain. You can choose from a wide range of colors and styles. Contact us today to learn more.