How To Clean Vinyl Siding

There’s something about a freshly cleaned house that just makes your heart sing. And when it comes to maintaining your home’s charm, cleaning your vinyl siding is a big part of the picture. It’s not just about curb appeal; regular cleaning can extend the life of your siding. As your go-to experts for cleaning vinyl siding installation services and siding replacement services, Robbins Roofing is here to guide you through the ins and outs of keeping that vinyl siding looking as good as new.

Why Clean Your Vinyl Siding?

Before we dive into the ‘how,’ let’s talk about the ‘why.’ Vinyl siding is known for its durability and low maintenance, but “low” doesn’t mean “no” maintenance. Over time, your siding can collect dirt, grime, and mildew stains, and even stains from things like rusted gutters. Not only does this make your house look a bit neglected, but it can also shorten the lifespan of your siding.

The Cleaning Arsenal

Alright, let’s roll up those sleeves. You’ll need a few tools to get started:

Soft Cloth or Long-Handled Soft Bristle Brush: This is your workhorse for scrubbing.
Garden Hose: For rinsing (a pressure washer can be used, but with great caution).
Cleaning Solution: You can either purchase a cleaner made specifically for vinyl siding or make your own with 70% water and 30% white vinegar. For tougher stains, a mix of 1/3 cup powdered laundry detergent, 2/3 cup powdered household cleaner, 1 quart liquid laundry bleach, and 1 gallon of water should do the trick.

Cleaning Steps

Start by Rinsing: Use your garden hose to rinse off as much debris as you can, starting at the top and working your way down.
Apply Your Cleaning Solution: If you’re using a homemade solution, apply it from the bottom up to prevent streaking. For store-bought cleaners, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Scrub Gently: With your cloth or brush, gently scrub the siding. Be careful around openings like windows and doors.
Rinse, Rinse, Rinse: Thoroughly rinse off the cleaning solution with your hose, again from the top down. Any leftover cleaner can leave streaks or even damage the siding over time.
Tackle Tough Stains Carefully: If you encounter stubborn stains, use a more potent cleaning solution and a bit more elbow grease, but always be gentle to avoid damaging the siding.
Safety First: If you need to use a ladder, make sure it’s stable. Never lean too far to one side to prevent falls.

Pro Tips

Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Bleach and other harsh chemicals can damage vinyl siding, so use them sparingly and dilute them well.
Pressure Washing: If you opt to use a pressure washer, keep it on the lowest setting, and spray at eye level to prevent water from going behind the siding.
Regular Maintenance: Cleaning your siding once or twice a year can keep it in tip-top shape.

When to Call the Pros

Sometimes, you might come across issues like cracked or loose siding. Or maybe you’re ready for a fresh look and clean siding. That’s where our siding replacement services come into play. Our team can handle everything from minor repairs to a full siding overhaul, ensuring your home not only looks great but is protected too.

Things Not To Do When Removing Rust in Vinyl Siding

There are a few things you definitely don’t want to do if you want to keep your siding looking pristine and avoid accidental damage. It’s like walking through a minefield — one wrong step, and boom! So, let’s navigate this together. As your friendly neighborhood experts in siding installation services and maintenance, we at Robbins Roofing are here to share some crucial don’ts when tackling rust on your vinyl siding.

Don’t Use Abrasive Scrubbers

When you see rust, your first instinct might be to grab the toughest scrubber you can find. But hold that thought! Using steel wool, abrasive brushes, or harsh scouring pads can scratch and damage the surface of your vinyl siding. Instead, opt for a soft cloth or a gentle brush.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

While we’re at it, let’s talk chemicals. Avoid using bleach or chlorine-based cleaners directly on the rust stains on white siding. These harsh chemicals can discolor your vinyl siding and cause more harm than good. If you do decide to use a chemical cleaner, make sure it’s specifically designed for use on vinyl siding.

Don’t Ignore Manufacturer’s Guidelines

Your vinyl siding came with guidelines for a reason. Different manufacturers recommend different cleaning methods based on the composition of their products. Before you start any cleaning, check these guidelines to avoid using products or methods that could void your warranty.

Don’t Forget To Test

Always, always do a spot test with your chosen cleaning solution, even if it’s a mild one. Choose an inconspicuous area to wash to make sure your cleaner doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.

Avoid Pressure Washing on High Settings

Pressure washing can be effective but risky. If you decide to use a pressure washer, never use it on the highest setting. High, pressure washers can force water behind the siding, leading to moisture damage, mold, or mildew. Keep it on a low setting and at a safe distance.

Don’t Neglect Safety

If the rust bucket is high up and you need a ladder, prioritize safety. Make sure your ladder is stable and secure. It’s easy to get caught up in the task and overreach or lose your balance.

Don’t Ignore the Cause

Finally, it’s vital to address what’s causing the rust in the first place. Is it from metal furniture, fixtures, or fittings that sit nearby? If you don’t tackle the root cause, you’ll just be repeating the cleaning process over and over.

Hire Professional Vinyl Siding Cleaners Now!

Remember, homeowners, keeping your vinyl siding clean isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about protecting your investment. And when you need a helping hand, whether it’s for cleaning tips, repairs, or installation, Robbins Roofing is here for you.

Happy cleaning, and here’s to a home that not only shelters you but shines for you!