By 2017, vinyl siding had become the leading exterior cladding in the US, owing to the numerous benefits it offers property owners. The building material is versatile, resilient, and durable. However, to enjoy these benefits, you should not only ensure that it is properly installed but also stick to routine care and cleaning. As an exterior product, the material is bound to accumulate dirt, stains, and mildew, making it necessary to take steps to keep it looking clean and attractive.
Here is how to be sure you are doing a proper job when cleaning vinyl siding.
Getting started
Start by removing outdoor furniture and objects that could get in your way while cleaning. Also, make sure you wear comfortable clothing, rubber gloves, closed-toe shoes, safety goggles to protect your eyes and a face mask to safeguard against breathing in fumes from the chemicals. Close doors and windows so that water does not spray inside the house. Cover plants to prevent any damage from the cleaning products and switch off, unplug and cover your lights and electrical units. Lastly, consider working on a cloudy day so that the sun does not dry spots unevenly or too quickly.
Choose a cleaning solution
Some of the items you will need for the cleaning exercise include a soft cloth, a soft-bristle brush, buckets of water, pressure washer and store-bought vinyl siding cleaning products. You can choose to use a bleach cleaning solution or vinegar cleaning solution. However, you must ensure that they are mixed properly. Some of the options available to you if you choose to clean on your own are scrubbing with a soapy brush and a bucket, pressure washing, and soft washing. This will largely depend on the dirt that has accumulated on the vinyl siding.
The cleaning process
- Workaround the house in 3 to 5-foot sections
- Mix ¼ cup of laundry detergent with 4 gallons of water in a bucket
- Gather your cleaning tools such as brushes, brooms, mop or an old towel
- Use a hose or pressure washer to spray away loose dirt and debris and lessen the amount of scrubbing needed
- Use your cleaning tool to scrub away dirt and debris, working from the top downwards
- Use the hose to rinse away soapy water
Removing dirt, mold, and mildew from vinyl siding
In case dirt has accumulated or mildew has grown on the vinyl siding, you will need to have it removed. While using a spray nozzle or pressure washer will help remove dirt, you will require bleach to treat mold and mildew.
Additional tips and advice
While the basic principles of house washing are not technical, there is the risk of personal injury, property damage and chances of a satisfying outcome are low. The smartest option when it comes to cleaning vinyl siding and taking care of house washing needs is to let the professionals do the job. The process can happen while you sit back and will make for one of the best value investments.
