Maintaining your home’s exterior is critical to retaining its value and curb appeal. One important component of exterior care is keeping your home’s siding clean. However, many homeowners make mistakes that result in pricey repairs or even siding damage. In this article, we’ll go over the most common mistakes to avoid while washing your house siding and offer recommendations to help you do it correctly.
Understanding Different Types of Siding
Before you start cleaning, you need first determine what sort of siding you have. Each material requires particular treatment.
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl is a popular choice among homeowners due to its easy upkeep. However, it is susceptible to high-pressure washing, therefore gentle cleaning procedures are required.
Wood Siding
It is difficult to maintain wood siding, despite its beauty. Water damage, warping and mold growth can be avoided by taking special care.
Metal Siding
Although metal siding is long-lasting, it can rust if not properly cleaned. To protect the finish, you should clean it with non-abrasive ways.
Brick Siding
Brick is durable but porous, which means it can harbor dirt and mildew if not properly maintained. For brick, use a light detergent and wash it under low pressure.
Also Read: The Ultimate House Deep Cleaning Service
Choosing the Right Cleaning Method
One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is selecting the incorrect cleaning procedure. The two most popular procedures are power cleaning and soft washing.
Power Washing vs. Soft Washing
Power washing uses high-pressure water to remove filth, whereas gentle cleaning employs lower pressure and chemical treatments. While power washing is effective on hard surfaces, it is frequently too harsh on siding such as vinyl or wood. Soft washing is often a safer option.
When to Avoid High-Pressure Cleaning
High-pressure washing can result in fractures, chips, or even water penetration behind delicate siding materials such as wood or older vinyl. For these materials, use a mild wash.
Mistake #1: Using Too Much Pressure
Excessive water pressure is one of the most common and destructive mistakes when cleaning siding. Excessive pressure can break vinyl, splinter wood, and chip paint off metal.
Correct PSI Settings for Different Siding Materials
For vinyl siding, use a PSI of 1,300 to 1,600. Wood siding requires considerably lower pressure, typically less than 1,200 PSI. To avoid damaging the material, always adjust the pressure accordingly.
Mistake #2: Ignoring the Type of Cleaning Solution
One of the most damaging and common mistakes made when cleaning siding is using excessive pressure. Over-pressured water can damage vinyl siding, splintering wood or chipping paint from metal.
Importance of Using Siding-Friendly Cleaners
Choose cleaners that are specific to the sort of siding you have. A general-purpose cleaner may appear convenient, but it could degrade the material in the long run.
Avoid Chemicals
Avoid using harsh detergents, such as ammonia or bleach on siding. They can cause the material to erode, especially for vinyl and wood.
Also Read: The Ultimate Guide to Hiring Cleaning Companies
Mistake #3: Not Pre-Rinsing the Siding
Pre-rinsing is a step that many DIYers skip. Pre-rinsing your siding before applying soap helps eliminate surface dirt and grime, making the cleaning process more efficient.
Pre-Rinsing as a Safeguard Against Damage
By rinsing first, you limit the possibility of rubbing dirt into the siding and leaving scratches. Consider it a preparation for a more thorough cleaning.
Mistake #4: Skipping Regular Cleaning
Many homes neglect regular cleaning, resulting in an accumulation of filth, grime, and mildew that gets increasingly difficult to remove.
How Often to Clean Siding
Ideally, you should clean your siding at least once every year. Depending on your surroundings (for example, humid regions or dusty areas), you may need to clean more frequently.
Long-Term Impacts of Irregular Maintenance
Neglecting regular cleaning can result in difficult-to-remove stains and, in some situations, mold development that can penetrate the siding.
Mistake #5: Cleaning During Extreme Weather
Another typical mistake is cleaning your siding during severe weather. This might cause uneven drying or damage to the siding material.
Effects of Cleaning in Very Hot or Cold Weather
Hot weather may cause the cleaning solution to dry too rapidly, resulting in streaks or stains. However, cleaning in freezing temperatures might cause ice to build on your siding.
Ideal Weather Conditions for Siding Cleaning
Aim to clean your siding on a mild, cloudy day to guarantee even drying and avoid damage.
Mistake #6: Overlooking Mold and Mildew Growth
Mold or mildew is likely to be the cause of black or green patches. Ignoring it can cause serious structural and health issues.
Identifying Mold and Mildew on Siding
Mold and mildew thrive in wet, shady regions of your home. They can eat away at siding materials, particularly wood, if not treated.
Proper Techniques to Remove Mold
Using a mold-specific cleanser and delicate scrubbing tools, gently remove any development without damaging the siding.
Mistake #7: Using Harsh Scrubbing Techniques
Scrubbing too vigorously when cleaning siding can be more damaging than beneficial.
Why Aggressive Scrubbing Damages Siding
Scrubbing too hard can damage sidings, particularly vinyl and wood. Use soft sponges or brushes and let the cleaner handle the heavy lifting.
Better Alternatives for Scrubbing
Choose soft, nonabrasive brushes and sponges. For persistent stains, a longer soak time with the cleaner may be sufficient without using undue effort.
Mistake #8: Not Protecting Surrounding Areas
Failure to protect neighboring areas when house siding cleaning can result in damage to your landscaping or other sections of your property.
Covering Plants and Windows
Before you begin, make sure to cover any plants, outdoor furniture, and windows. Some cleaning products can harm plants, and runoff can contaminate windows.
Preventing Runoff Damage to Landscaping
Direct runoff away from your garden beds and grass, especially if you are using cleaning chemicals that may harm your plants.
Mistake #9: Cleaning Without Safety Precautions
If you are not careful, cleaning siding can involve working at heights.
Using Ladders Safely
Always keep your ladder on level ground and never overreach when cleaning. If necessary, get an expert to handle higher areas.
Protective Gear for Siding Cleaning
Wear gloves, goggles, and nonslip shoes. This protects you from toxins and any slips or falls.
Mistake #10: Rushing the Job
Rushing through the cleaning process can provide poor results and possibly harm your siding.
Why Rushing Can Lead to Damage
Hurrying frequently results in missing spots or employing unsuitable techniques, both of which can cause damage or the need for re-cleaning shortly afterward.
Taking Time for Thorough Cleaning
It’s best to take your time and clean your siding thoroughly. A calm, deliberate approach guarantees that you cover every inch without inflicting injury.
Best Practices for Long-Lasting Siding Maintenance
In addition to avoiding the frequent problems described above, implementing a few best practices can help your siding last longer.
Regular Inspection and Touch-Ups
Regularly inspect your siding for cracks, holes, and peeling paint. To avoid further damage, address any issues immediately.
Sealing Cracks and Ensuring Proper Drainage
Make sure there are no openings that allow water to leak in. Proper drainage around your home is also required to keep water from accumulating near your siding.
Conclusion
Cleaning your house siding does not have to be difficult, but avoiding these frequent blunders will save you time, money, and potential damage. You can keep your home looking wonderful all year by using the correct cleaning procedures, avoiding harsh chemicals, and paying attention to the type of siding you have.
