When asking for some piece of advice from experts on how to clean vinyl siding and what type of maintenance it requires, probably, you will hear only good news. Well, vinyl really has an array of advantages, and this type of material is easy to clean. It doesn’t require any processing against insects like in wooden options or applying anti-corrosion spray if installing aluminum panels. That’s one of the reasons why vinyl siding is widely recognized by customers around the globe.
However, like timber or aluminum siding, vinyl cladding also has its drawbacks or, it would be better to say, not its strongest points. The fact is that, due to its properties, siding is susceptible to the accumulation of dirt, lichens, grease, soot, and algae on the surface, which certainly affects its characteristics, and not only aesthetics but also durability.
As a result of the impact of natural factors, vinyl horizontal or vertical siding panels gradually lose their protective layer, so their surface becomes porous. Thus, in such cracks and small holes, the mud together with microorganisms continue to destroy the material integrity. And now, on the once neat and attractive house facade, difficult to wash off pollution appears, especially in those places where the wall gets wet and poorly ventilated. If the siding was damaged, and no cleaning procedure and even pressure washing won’t bring back the exterior beauty, be ready to invest in a home renovations project. But with proper and regular care activities, you still can avoid unpleasant consequences and siding deterioration. Let’s take a high dive into how to prolong the vinyl lifespan.
Causes for vinyl cladding contamination
First of all, there is a need to determine the main enemies that ruin the vinyl material. Thus, the main reason for the spoilage is mold and mildew growth. Because of this, stains, moss, and greenery may appear on the surface, and the siding itself will fade and darken. And even if you follow all the cleaning rules and wash it under pressure once a year, it is still not possible to completely prevent the formation of the most dangerous sources of pollution. A lack of sunlight and excessive moisture will promote the worsening of the exterior look. But don’t despair just yet. There are a couple of tips to keep your cladding fresh and tidy.
Tips on how to clean vinyl siding
And so, before your siding begins to deform due to elements, you can remove them easily with a garden hose with low pressure. But if after such a cleaning, not all impurities disappeared, here are some recommendations:
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if more stubborn stains have developed, you can use a soft bristle brush or a soft cloth;
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if the contamination cannot be removed with water, it is advisable to use detergent intended for vinyl or apply a water-white vinegar solution (30%/70%);
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to fight the fungus, you can use a solution of bleach or algae prevention agent;
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but if plants are planted along the outside wall, this method of struggling with algae is prohibited;
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rinse the surface of vinyl siding panels with water before applying any cleaners or powders.
It is not recommended to use abrasive cleaners, as they can cause mechanical damage to the surfaces and will lead to scratches and roughness. You can also find out how to clean vinyl siding with a pressure washer, as it is a reliable way to get rid of tough spots and buildup of dirt. But the procedure isn’t straightforward. So be extremely careful when applying a DIY pressure washing method.