How Often Should You Clean Siding?
The exterior of your home serves to shield your house against harsh weather conditions. For that reason, your home’s exterior is comprised of durable materials that can stand up to various types of weather. However, even the most durable material will still need some level of care to keep it functioning at its best. House siding is usually not difficult to maintain, but many homeowners aren’t aware of how often different parts of their home exterior should be cleaned to keep them in tip-top shape.
How Often Should You Clean Your House Siding?
How often you should clean your house siding largely depends on what kind of siding you have and the weather conditions around your home. Some types of siding are more durable and will last much longer between periods of maintenance, while others may need significantly more attention. Here is some general guidance based on some popular siding materials:
Vinyl siding
Vinyl siding is one of the most popular forms of siding used for modern homes. It is affordable and doesn’t require much in the way of care, since the color is baked into the material. Normally, you’ll be able to tell when it’s time to clean your vinyl siding based on its appearance. If it is visibly clean, it’s still a good idea to have it pressure washed every couple of years. If there is a visible buildup of dirt, mildew, or other grime, having it cleaned at least once a year will help keep it looking good.
Fiber cement siding
Fiber cement siding is known for being one of the longest-lasting siding products on the market but requires a little more upkeep than vinyl siding. This siding may need to be repainted occasionally and should be cleaned at least once a year, but better every six months. Rather than power or pressure washing this material, you should use a soft brush or cloth and a mild cleansing solution.
Wood siding
Wood siding requires the most maintenance out of all the popular siding options. It should be cleaned of dirt and mildew every six months, but at least once per year. It also requires repainting every few years to keep the color vibrant and consistent. In more humid areas, wood siding may grow mold that will need to be cleaned off often to prevent it from taking over your home.
Time for a Replacement?
If you’ve been struggling to keep your house siding free from mold, mildew, and other unattractive growths, it could be that the seal is compromised and moisture has been collecting underneath your siding. If this is the case, no amount of cleaning will save you; it’s time to have your siding replaced. American WeatherTECHS has been the leading exterior remodeling company for Columbus, Cincinnati, and the surrounding area since 1995. With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and decades of experience under our belt, we’re the siding contractor of choice for homeowners who want siding products that will last. Let us be the solution to your problems! Call today and schedule a free consultation to learn more about our top-quality siding replacements.
