Spring Cleaning Tips for Your Siding

We’ve been talking a lot lately about your roof. The importance of inspecting it, common roof problems caused by winter weather, even GAF’s Roofs for Troops program.

This week, we’re thinking a little lower—siding. Like your roof, your siding not only adds curb appeal to your home, it also helps keep your family warm in winter, cool in summer and dry all year long. And it can take quite a beating. When your siding is ready for replacement, you know who to call. But, how do you prolong the life of your siding and keep it looking its best?

Just like any other part of your home, regular cleanings will keep your siding looking good and functioning properly. During cleanings is also an ideal opportunity to inspect for potential leaks, loose panels and other issues. Here’s a helpful video from the folks over at Do it Best showing you just how to go about cleaning your siding.

Now, we know what some of you are thinking, “why mess around with a brush and garden hose when I’ve got a power washer!” But beware; power washing your siding can do more harm than good if not done properly. Paint can be chipped off or damaged, screens can be torn, the siding itself can be damaged or knocked loose, windows seals can get broken causing fogging between the layers of glass. That high-pressure water can also find its way through window and door seals into your home. You could even end up forcing water in behind the vinyl siding, Hardi plank, or cracks in the mortar on brick homes causing mold problems.

If you simply cannot resist the pull of the power washer, make sure you take the time to learn the proper techniques to avoid causing costly damage. Here’s an article from Houzz that offers some helpful tips. Whichever method you choose, cleaning your siding will boost your home’s curb appeal and help maximize the life span of your siding!