Vinyl siding is a durable, versatile, and resilient building material, but it does require some routine care and cleaning.
The growing popularity of
vinyl siding is indisputable. Indeed. Because it is an exterior product, vinyl siding can accumulate a host
of dirt, grime, and stains on account of things like pollen, bird and
insect droppings, spider webs and rust. In shady, moist areas, mold and mildew
can grow, and vinyl is also vulnerable to discoloring effects from
insecticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. In addition, vinyl siding’s
finish may be marred by a number of commonly used household maintenance
products, including caulking, driveway sealant, tar, motor oil and
paint.
Luckily, vinyl siding is fairly easy to clean, and there are a wide
variety of products to help remove typical stains. According to the Vinyl Siding Institute, the
best way is to use a soft cloth or an ordinary long-handled,
soft-bristle brush. To prevent streaking, start at the bottom and work
up towards the top of the house. Thoroughly rinse any cleaning solution
as you go.
Some good cleaning solutions include:
• 70% water, 30% white vinegar makes a great all-purpose cleanser that removes light mold and mildew stains.
• For a stronger solution, mix together one-third cup powdered
laundry detergent, two-thirds cup powdered household cleaner, one quart
liquid laundry bleach and one gallon of water.
• If you are concerned about landscaping,
use a solution comprised of one gallon of water mixed with one cup
oxygen bleach in a bucket. The oxygen bleach will clean the vinyl
without damaging your landscaping.
• Simple Green offers an environmentally friendly cleaner that is
specially formulated for use on vinyl and aluminum siding, stucco, terra
cotta roof tiles and painted wood. The non-toxic biodegradable
concentrate can be used manually or with pressure washers.
• General household cleansers (e.g., Fantastik, Murphy’s Oil Soap,
Windex and Lysol) can be used on tough dirt and stains, including those
created by top soil, grass, grease, oil, rust, crayon, ink and bubble
gum. Rust stains may be removed using products designed for this purpose
(e.g., Super Iron Out and Instant Rust Out).
If using a pressure washer,
be sure to keep the stream at eye level and pointed straight at the
siding, not at an angle. That way, you won’t drive water in behind the
siding. Use caution when using a pressure washer around openings like
windows, doors, and plumbing connections.
Avoid using any cleaning products that contain organic solvents,
undiluted chlorine bleach, liquid grease remover, nail polish remover,
or furniture polish or cleaners. Any of these products might damage the
vinyl siding’s surface. Also, avoid using highly-abrasive scrubbers or
steel wool; these, too, can cause damage.
With just a little bit of time and effort, vinyl siding can be kept
looking “like new” and will provide many years of trouble-free
protection for your home.
If your vinyl siding is beyond cleaning or if you are interested in a new look feel free to contact us for a free estimate including tear off and replacement of
new siding for your home
JandB Roofing and Siding
Saint Paul MN and Surrounding Suburbs
651-457-0391