How to Clean Vinyl Siding

Vinyl exteriors are always a popular choice for our customers, and it’s easy to see why – vinyl is stylish, durable and affordable. It’s also very easy to clean – as long as you know the right steps.

The Vinyl Siding Institute offers expert-approved tips on how to keep your vinyl siding looking its best. You can find the full list of cleaning tips, including a list of ideal cleaning products, on their site. Here’s their advice on how to clean vinyl siding:

How do I wash vinyl siding?

Wash vinyl siding with a soft cloth or ordinary long-handled, soft bristle brush. For textured surfaces, use only a soft bristle brush to keep the grooves in the texture stain-free. For best results, start at the bottom of the house and work up and rinse the cleaning solution completely before it dries. If your house has brick facing, cover the brick so that it is not affected by the runoff.

Can I use a power washer?

Yes, though you should read the washer instructions carefully before use. When cleaning, hold the power washer straight at eye level to keep the water on top of the siding where it can clean most effectively. Do not aim the power washer upward as water may be driven behind the siding. You should also follow the siding manufacturer’s recommendations. Some manufacturers don’t want pressure washers used on their products at all. Others allow them, but have limitations on the amount of pressure and the cleaners that can be used. Most will caution against the use of pressure washers around any opening in the wall, such as windows, doors, electrical wiring, and plumbing.

How do I remove mold and mildew?

Small spots of mold and mildew can be handled with cleaners such as Fantastik® or Windex®. For larger sections, a solution of vinegar (30%) and water (70%) has proven successful. Alternatively, you also could try the following solution: 1/3 cup (2 2/3 ounces) powdered laundry detergent (e.g., Tide®, Fab®, or equivalent), 2/3 cup (5 1/3 ounces) powdered household cleaner (e.g., Spic & Span®, Soilax®, or equivalent), 1 quart (32 fluid ounces) liquid laundry bleach, and 1 gallon (128 fluid ounces) of water.

How do I remove mulch residue?

The spots could be residue from artillery spores. If this is the case, we do not know of any cleaner that will remove it from the siding. Artillery spores come from a particular fungus that lives in shredded wood mulch or other organic material around the house. The only way to correct the issue is to replace the shredded wood mulch with bark mulch and then replace the siding. The following websites have information on this issue:

Does your vinyl need more than a quick clean? At Chuba, we provide excellent exterior improvements. Our dedication to quality service using top-quality building products and a high level of attention to detail ensures we will be your partner in producing your dream home. Contact us today for an estimate!

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