Cleaning Vinyl Siding

By: Handy Andy

Over the years vinyl siding has become a referred building product for many of the builders.  It is relatively low in initial cost and it is relatively maintenance friendly.  Vinyl siding resists most common household stains, but it will become dirty like any product exposed to atmospheric conditions.

In areas not exposed to direct sun and rain, periodic washing with a soft bristle brush and clean water from a garden hose may be necessary to remove surface dirt. Chalk may also accumulate on the surface. This is a normal condition for pigmented materials exposed to the elements. For best appearance, clean vinyl siding at least once a year.

To remove soil, grime and chalk from your siding, use a garden hose, a soft bristle brush and a bucket of soapy water. There are other over the counter cleaners available.  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. Thoroughly rinse the siding with clean water from a garden hose.

Manufacturers recommend avoiding prolonged or high pressure rinsing. Keep cleaning solution off surrounding fixtures and surfaces not scheduled for washing.  This doesn’t mean you cannot use power washers. Before using a pressure washer you should read the washer instructions carefully. Cleaning vinyl siding is not a science but requires but it requires you power washer straight at eye level so that you 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 follow the siding manufacturer’s recommendations.  Many of the manufacturers don't want you to pressure washers on their products.  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.

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October 2012