Vinyl siding is wildly popular for its low maintenance requirements compared to other siding materials. Low maintenance doesn’t mean NO maintenance, however. It still benefits from occasional care to keep it looking its best. Here are some maintenance tasks typically associated with vinyl siding:
- Cleaning: Regular cleaning is important to prevent buildup of dirt, grime, and mildew. You can use a garden hose with a spray attachment or a pressure washer on a low setting to rinse the siding. For tougher stains, a mixture of mild detergent and water can be used, applied with a soft-bristled brush or a sponge.
- Inspecting for Damage: Periodically inspect the siding for any signs of damage such as cracks, chips, or warping. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further damage and maintain the integrity of the siding.
- Repairing Damage: If you notice any damage during your inspection, repair or replace the affected sections of siding s necessary. This might involve replacing individual panels or sections that have been damaged; we can help with this kind of repair.
- Trimming Vegetation: Keep vegetation such as bushes, trees, and vines trimmed away from the siding to prevent damage from branches or moisture retention that can lead to mildew growth. Vegetation touching the house can also provide an access point for insects like ants, another good reason to keep it from touching the house.
- Maintaining Caulking and Seals: Check the caulking and seals around windows, doors, and other openings regularly. Replace any damaged or deteriorated caulking to prevent water infiltration behind the siding.
- Avoiding Heat Sources: Vinyl siding can warp or melt when exposed to high heat sources such as a grill too close to the house. Make sure to keep these sources a safe distance away from the siding.
If you’d like a professional opinion on the state of your vinyl siding, give us a call, we’d be happy to come out and take a look. If all you need is a good wash, we’ll tell you that! Sometimes one side of the house will face harsher weather conditions than the other and be in need of attention. In some cases a partial siding replacement is a good solution: you don’t have to change all the siding on your house at once.
