Vinyl siding is a cost-effective way to protect your home’s exterior while enhancing the curb appeal of your home. But in order to keep your vinyl siding looking your best for years to come, there are some key things you need to take care of. In this article, we’ll look at some ways you can make sure your home’s exterior stays pristine.
Regular Cleaning
The number one way to keep your vinyl siding looking great is to make sure that it stays clean. While vinyl is much easier to keep clean than other, more porous materials such as wood or brick, it will still naturally accumulate dirt, mold, and other substances that can make your siding look dirty.
You should clean your siding at least annually to keep your siding from becoming permanently stained. Using a cloth or a long brush with soft bristles, you should work from the bottom up, which helps to minimize streaking.
There are a number of commercially produced cleaning products available, although you can also make your own. One simple solution is a mixture of 30% white vinegar and 70% water, although there are many other recipes that have stronger cleansers. Just be sure to avoid organic solvents, such as nail polish remover, chlorine bleach, and grease removers.
Another option is to power wash your siding, although this process can potentially damage your siding. While you can rent power washing equipment, it’s usually a better idea to leave the job to a professional that will have the training and experience to not only get the job done faster but will know whether or not your siding will handle power washing well.
Minimize Potential Damage
While vinyl siding holds up well to weather, it isn’t as strong against damage from direct impacts. This could range from sports equipment, like baseballs or soccer balls, to rocks thrown by your lawnmower.
It’s important to limit the opportunity for this kind of damage to occur. For instance, if you’re playing catch in your yard, you might choose to move further away from your home; the same goes for a basketball hoop or a soccer goal.
Watch the Grill
Everyone loves the chance to grill, making the most of their outdoor spaces. But it’s not uncommon for homeowners to mistakenly place their grills too close to their homes. When vinyl siding is exposed to extreme heat, it can quickly melt. When you’re setting up your grill, make sure to put it at least 2 to 3 feet away from your home.
Look for Cracks
It’s always a good idea to regularly look at your home’s vinyl siding, inspecting it for any damage that might have occurred. You should inspect your siding for cracks or breaks, as well as any areas that might be coming loose.
Because your siding is primarily intended to protect your home from moisture and insects, any damage to your siding creates a potential entry point. Catching damage early on can prevent more significant damage down the road.
