Are your home's siding looking a bit worse for wear? It's no surprise that the exterior of a house takes a lot of abuse from the elements, but with a little bit of effort, you can make it look like new again. In this in-depth look at cleaning siding on a house, we'll explore the best methods and techniques to restore your home's exterior and leave it looking as good as new. The type of siding on your house will determine the cleaning method you should use. Common types of siding include vinyl, aluminum, brick, stucco, and wood. Make sure you identify the type of siding on your home before beginning the cleaning process.
Vinyl siding
is one of the most common types of siding used in homes today.It’s relatively easy to clean and maintain. You can use a mild detergent mixed with warm water and a soft brush or sponge to clean the siding. Be sure to rinse off any soap residue with a garden hose.
Aluminum siding
is also a common type of siding used in homes. It’s best to use a non-abrasive cleaner and a soft cloth or sponge when cleaning aluminum siding.Never use abrasive materials as they can scratch or damage the siding.
Brick siding
can be tricky to clean due to its porous nature. The best way to clean brick siding is to use a soft brush and a mild detergent solution. Be sure to rinse the area thoroughly after washing to prevent any soap residue from remaining on the surface.Stucco
is another type of siding often found in homes. It is best cleaned using a soft brush and a mild detergent solution.Again, be sure to rinse off any soap residue from the surface.
Wood siding
requires special care when cleaning. You should never use a power washer on wood siding as it can cause damage. Instead, use a soft brush and a mild detergent solution to gently scrub away dirt and debris. After washing, rinse off any soap residue with a garden hose and then apply a wood preservative or sealer to protect the wood from weathering.Supplies Needed for Cleaning Siding
When cleaning the siding on your house, you’ll need some basic supplies such as a mild detergent, soft brush or sponge, garden hose, and wood preservative or sealer (if applicable).Depending on the type of siding you have, you may also need some additional supplies such as a non-abrasive cleaner for aluminum siding. When selecting a detergent, it is important to choose one that is specifically designed for the type of siding on your home. For vinyl and aluminum siding, a mild soap-and-water solution is usually sufficient. For wood siding, a solution of mild detergent and water is recommended.
For painted surfaces, use a cleaner specifically designed for painted surfaces. A soft brush or sponge can be used to gently scrub away dirt and debris from your siding. Be sure to choose one that won’t scratch or damage the surface of your siding. A garden hose can be used to rinse off the detergent after cleaning. For wood siding, it is also important to apply a wood preservative or sealer afterwards to protect it from moisture and decay.
Tips for Cleaning Siding
When cleaning the siding on your house, it’s important to follow some basic tips for best results:Start at the top of your house and work your way downIt's important to start from the top of your house and work your way down when washing your siding.This ensures that dirt and dust that falls down from higher levels won't be spread around the lower levels of your house.
Rinse off any soap residue with a garden hose
After washing the siding, be sure to rinse off any soap residue with a garden hose. Otherwise, the soap may attract dirt and dust and create a mess.Apply a wood preservative or sealer after washing (if applicable)
If your siding is made of wood, you should apply a wood preservative or sealer after washing. This will help protect the wood and keep it looking great.Avoid using power washers as they can cause damage
Power washers can cause damage to your siding, so it's best to avoid using them when cleaning your house.Instead, use a soft-bristled brush or sponge.
Only use mild detergents and non-abrasive cleaners
When cleaning the siding on your house, use mild detergents and non-abrasive cleaners. This will help ensure that you don't damage the siding while cleaning.Avoid using abrasive materials as they can scratch or damage the siding
To protect your siding, avoid using abrasive materials such as steel wool or wire brushes as they can scratch or damage the siding. Cleaning the siding on your house is an important part of home maintenance that can help keep your home looking great. Knowing what type of siding you have, what supplies you need, and following the right tips can help ensure that you get the best results when cleaning your house’s exterior. It is important to use the right tools and products in order to avoid damaging your siding while still getting it clean.Be sure to also check with your local building codes and manufacturer's instructions before beginning any siding cleaning project. With the right supplies and knowledge, you can easily clean the siding on your house. Doing so will help keep your home looking great and will add to its value and longevity.
