Tips For Cleaning Your Siding

Tips For Cleaning Your Siding

There's nothing quite like the fresh, pristine look and feel of cleanliness. Whether it's the gleaming kitchen tile floor, your beloved vehicle, or the siding and trim of your home, the satisfaction that comes from gazing upon something that sparkles is truly unmatched.

You can attain that same sense of accomplishment and aesthetic perfection by taking the time to clean your Dayton home's siding. We recommend setting aside some time once or twice a year to tend to this important task. Simply bring out your trusty garden hose and give your home's siding a refreshing dousing every 6-12 months. It's worth noting that a high-pressure power washer is not the way to go. Instead, opt for a low-pressure hose and a soft-medium bristle brush (non-metallic) for the most effective way to eliminate dirt and debris from siding and trim.

Whether you're dealing with dirt, grease, or the stubborn presence of mildew on your siding, we've put together the tools, cleaning solutions, and proven methods you need to ensure your siding remains clean.

The Culprit: Dirt

Tools Needed:

Dirt accumulation from storms and windy days can tarnish your home's exterior. To efficiently cleanse your siding without excessive scrubbing, you'll require a soft cloth, a gentle brush (like an All Paint poly brush, chip brush, or horsehair bench brush), and a garden hose. Avoid abrasive tools such as hard metal brushes or abrasive sponges, as they may harm your siding's finish.

Solution:

Water

Cleaning Method:

If using a brush, delicately sweep away the surface dust and dirt from your siding, followed by a thorough rinse with a garden hose. If you opt for a soft cloth, dampen it and gently wipe the area in a side-to-side motion, following the direction of the plank, shingle, or panel siding until it's clean. Finish by rinsing the area with clean water.

Pro Tip:

Work in small sections from top to bottom. Starting at the top and progressing downward prevents dripping or streaking onto the freshly cleaned area.

The Culprit: Oil, Grease, or Other Organic Contaminants

Essential Tools:

When your Dayton home's siding falls victim to oil, grease, or other organic contaminants, your trusted allies are a soft cloth and a garden hose.

Recommended Solution:

A solution of mild liquid dishwashing soap and water is the way to go.

Effective Cleaning Method:

Begin by soaking your soft cloth in the soapy water solution. Gently but diligently clean the stained siding, ensuring you rinse your cloth regularly. As the siding becomes thoroughly lathered, grab your garden hose to rinse the area.

Pro Tip:

Maintain a Wet Surface: Prevent soap or cleaners from drying on your siding. Instead, maintain a continuous rinse until every trace of soap has washed away, leaving your siding looking spotless.

The Culprit: Mold and Mildew

Indispensable Tools:

Mold and mildew can sometimes look like ordinary dirt, so before diving into cleaning your siding, give your planks, panels, or shingles a thorough inspection. If you spot any mold or mildew, arm yourself with a soft cloth (or a gentle sponge) and a trusty garden hose.

Recommended Solution:

Opt for a specialized mildew cleaner and water.

Effective Cleaning Method:

Gently scrub the areas displaying mold or mildew, making sure to follow the mildew cleaner's instructions. Afterward, use the garden hose to rinse the affected area.

Pro Tip:

Handle Chemicals with Care: If you opt for a potent chemical to tackle siding cleaning, exercise caution, and carefully adhere to the instructions, as these chemicals can potentially harm the siding's finish.