Maximize your home’s curb appeal with these 5 siding maintenance tips
Vinyl siding is one of the most popular choices of homeowners for their home’s exterior. Unfortunately, over time, lack of maintenance and upkeep can cause your siding to become discolored and dingy. However, thorough cleaning and regular maintenance can make your siding look brand new. Keep reading to learn pro tips to enhance your home’s curb appeal.
Schedule Thorough Cleaning
- Regular cleaning is the key to maintaining the pristine appearance of your vinyl siding. Cleaning vinyl siding at least once a year is advisable. Cleaning becomes easier when done more often. This is because the accumulation of grime and debris on vinyl siding can increase if left unchecked for extended periods.
Use a soft cloth or a long-handled, soft-bristled brush to achieve the best results when cleaning your vinyl siding. Next, clean from the base of the siding and work your way upwards. Once you’ve finished cleaning, rinse off the remaining cleaning solution to prevent staining of the vinyl siding.
Choose Gentle Cleaners
- Using harsh chemicals to clean vinyl siding can damage the siding’s appearance. Consult with the manufacturer for safe and effective cleaning solutions to avoid damage. Alternatively, choose a homemade solution of 70% water and 30% vinegar if you prefer a cost-effective and natural option.
Several premade cleaning solutions are also available in the market, which are safe to use on vinyl siding. Nevertheless, it’s better to seek advice from a professional to ensure that the solution you choose is suitable for your siding. Before applying any solution, rinse the house thoroughly, and after cleaning, rinse the house again to ensure that all traces of the cleaning solution are removed.
Address Cracks and Holes Promptly
- Although vinyl siding is renowned for its durability, impacts and harsh weather conditions can lead to cracks and breaks in your vinyl siding. Therefore, regularly inspecting your vinyl siding is crucial for detecting cracks or breaks.
As soon as you notice any damage, repairing or replacing the affected parts is essential as this helps reduce further damage and expenses. By promptly addressing these issues, you can ensure that your vinyl siding remains in excellent condition, preserving your home’s aesthetic and structural integrity.
Avoid Using Power Washer
- If you are dealing with severe mildew or dirt buildup on your vinyl siding, using a power washer may be a consideration. However, it is crucial to note that power washing should only be used as a last resort if the manufacturer of your vinyl siding recommends it. Pressure washing can be risky, as it can force water through your walls and into your home, causing water damage to the interior of your home.
Furthermore, if the pressure washer is not used correctly, it could result in broken windows, damaged vinyl, etc. It is best to use a soft cloth or a soft-bristled brush to clean your vinyl siding whenever possible. When used with the appropriate cleaning solutions and applied correctly, these tools are typically sufficient to restore your vinyl siding to its original shine.
Prevent Exposure To Open Flames
Although durable, vinyl siding is not resistant to heat from open flame. Homeowners typically place their grills near the side of their house for convenience, but the heat can lead to severe damage to the vinyl siding. Keep the grills at least 10 feet away from the house to prevent the melting or warping of your vinyl siding.
If you plan to install new siding or remodel your home, don’t hesitate to contact Simple Home Improvements. Call us at 866-849-2599 or visit our location in Totowa. Let us help you transform your home with beautiful, durable vinyl siding that will protect your investment for years.