Vinyl siding is a very durable building material, and although it doesn’t wear down as much as wood, it still needs regular maintenance.
Vinyl remains the most common type of home siding today. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 33 percent of the new single-family homes constructed in 2011 were sided in vinyl, making it the top exterior siding that year.
Vinyl’s low cost and low maintenance qualities make it a favorable option for homeowners, but if a section of siding does become badly damaged, you’ll have to replace it. No one wants that. So here are some simple tips and suggestions to help maintain the life of your vinyl siding.
Most experts suggest that you clean the siding once every year. This task isn’t very challenging and you’ll only need a few tools to get the job done. You’ll first need a hose, a sponge, a stiff-bristle brush, a bucket, and some variety of soap. First, scrub the surface, reaching each area thoroughly. Next, simply rinse the soapy areas with water. If the scrubbing cannot bring up the excess dirt and grime, a high-pressure hose can be used to get what was left behind. All of these tools and materials can be purchased at your local hardware store.
Avoid using any vinyl siding cleaners that contain undiluted chlorine bleach, liquid grease remover, nail polish remover, or furniture polish or cleaners. The use of any of these substances can cause severe damage to your siding and may result in staining or heavy wear. Some general household cleaners are recommended, as well as some homemade solutions. 70% water, 30% white vinegar delivers a great all-purpose vinyl siding cleaner that eliminates light mold and mildew stains.
With just a little bit of handy work, your decades-old siding can look brand new again after just a days work. If problems persist, it is important to consult with a professional.
