Maintaining your siding can be the difference between a home that looks new and one that shows its age. More than anything else, siding serves as a barrier to the elements: wind, rain, snow, and sun. It also contributes significantly to the cosmetic appeal of your home.
However, like every other part of your home, siding does require regular maintenance to continue performing well and looking great. Neglecting this important aspect can lead to expensive repairs or even the need for a complete replacement. In this article, we’ll explore practical ways how to maintain your home’s siding to maximize its lifespan.
Regular Cleaning
Washing your siding regularly is one of the easiest and simplest ways to keep it up. Over time, dirt, grime, mold, and mildew can start building up on your siding, making it look unsightly and potentially damaging.
In Vancouver, WA, contractors play a particularly important role in siding maintenance due to the area’s unique climate and weather conditions. Partners of vancouver wa siding contractors know that they are experienced in handling these specific issues and can recommend appropriate cleaning methods and materials that are effective in the region’s climate. They can provide tailored advice on cleaning techniques and products that work well with the local weather conditions, ensuring that your siding remains in good condition and performs well throughout the year.
Regularly Check for Damage
Regular inspections can help to identify small problems before they turn into big ones. At least semiannually, walk around your house, surveying your siding for damage—cracks, warping, or panels that are loose.
Be most alert over areas beside the doors, windows, and at the roofline, for it is through such areas that water usually penetrates. In case of any damage, repair it; if not heeded on time, moisture can seep behind the siding to cause rot, mold, and structural damage.
Repaint or Refinish When Necessary
Now, if you have wood or fiber cement siding, this will also require periodic repainting or refinishing to maintain its protective layer. How often you do this depends on your climate and the type of paint or finish used. Generally speaking, though, you should probably plan to repaint every 5 to 10 years.
Before painting, clean the siding and repair it where necessary. Paint your siding with a good quality exterior paint or stain that has the capacity to withstand the elements and provide UV protection. A well-prepared surface and the right material will keep your siding looking good and well-protected for the next several years.
Keep Gutters and Downspouts Clear
Clogged gutters and downspouts allow water to overflow and drizzle down onto your siding, eventually causing water damage. Just be sure that your gutters and downspouts are clear and working right.
Clean gutters twice a year, more frequently if trees overhang your roof. The downspouts should be positioned to direct the water at least five feet away from your home’s foundation. You may also want to install gutter guards that prevent leaves and larger items from getting inside gutters.
Trim Landscaping Around Your Home
This is when overgrown shrubs, trees, and vines can actually cause real damage to your siding. Limbs that scrub against the siding could scrape or dent it; vines may trap moisture against its surface, leading to rot or mold growth.
Keep the plants trimmed back so they don’t touch your siding. Not only will this help protect your siding, but it will also improve airflow around your home, keeping moisture low.
Seal Cracks and Gaps
Small gaps and cracks can develop adjacent to windows, doors, and corners with time. Water could run inside these gaps and saturate the siding into the serious structure underneath.
Search for these zones consistently, and fill in any gaps or breaks with premium, paintable caulk. Ensure that the item you are working with is outside-appraised and is viable with your siding.
Address Mold and Mildew Promptly
Mold and mildew can grow on siding in the shaded or moist areas. They will discolor and damage what the siding is made of if an owner does not treat them promptly.
Mix one part bleach with four parts water to kill mold and mildew. Apply it to infected areas, let it sit for several minutes, with a soft-bristled brush, and then rinse it off completely with a garden hose. Alternatively, kill mold and mildew with white vinegar or a commercial mold and mildew remover.
Protect Against Pests
Pests, such as termites, carpenter ants, and woodpeckers, can also cause severe damage to your siding if it happens to be wood.
Keep firewood and other wood materials away from your house, as they are most probably infested with termites. Allow for good ventilation to the attic and crawl spaces to help deter carpenter ants. If you find any signs of pest activity, such as small holes in the siding or sawdust-like material near the base of your home, contact a pest control professional immediately.
Schedule Professional Inspections
Although periodic homeowner inspections are quite necessary, it is also advisable to have professional siding contractors examine your siding from time to time. Professionals might point out things that you may not be able to see: very minute signs of water damage or an early pest infestation, for instance.
Having a professional inspection every few years allows you to catch any problems early, which can be worth thousands of dollars off the bottom line in potential repairs. It’s extremely important if your home is older or has had some serious weather recently.
Upgrade When Necessary
With all the best maintenance practices in place, siding will not last forever. If your siding is badly damaged, faded, or no longer able to provide the intended protection, it might be time for an upgrade.
Where new siding is concerned, choose those materials that are very durable and require less maintenance. Vinyl siding doesn’t allow moisture and doesn’t need to be painted. On the other hand, fiber cement siding is resistant to fire and highly durable. Engage experienced siding contractors who will fit your new sidings appropriately to perform well and last for many years.
Understand the Maintenance Needs of Different Siding Materials
The different siding materials have different maintenance needs, understanding which can help you take better care of your home. Here’s a quick overview:
| Siding Material | Description |
| Vinyl Siding | This requires very minimal maintenance, although it would be good to clean once a year to prevent mold and mildew buildup. Check for any cracks or warping that are mainly found after extreme weather conditions. |
| Wood Siding | It requires frequent cleaning and, every now and then, application of a new coat of paint or stain. You should also have it checked for rot and insect damage and take necessary measures. |
| Fiber Cement Siding | This is a good siding in that it is very durable, and requires low maintenance. Clean this periodically, and after that, inspect it for cracks and other damages. It, however, requires repainting after every 10 to 15 years. |
| Aluminum Siding | Clean from time to time, and can be repainted when fading in color occurs. Check for dents and scratches in the siding that may need repair to prevent rust. |
| Brick and Stone Veneer | The actual materials are very durable, but the mortar can crack over time. Look for cracks and repair them regularly to prevent water infiltration into the structure. |
Conclusion
Maintaining your home’s siding is an integral part of homeownership. It saves money, enhances curb appeal, and extends the life of your siding. By following these maintenance guidelines, regular cleaning, inspections, timely repairs, and knowing when to call a professional you can keep your siding in excellent condition for years.
Remember, it’s more than the outer layer—your siding is protection from the elements. It’s investing time in the upkeep for long-term health and value for your home. Don’t hesitate to contact siding contractors for advice and service if you have any doubts. They can ensure your siding remains a beautiful barrier that stands strong through the test of time.
FAQs
How often do I need to clean my home siding?
You should clean the siding at least once or twice every year. Cleaning will help rid you of dust, mildew, and mold, thus keeping your siding as good as new and adding more years to it.
How do I know if my siding is due for repairs or replacement?
Check for cracks, warping, loose panels, and signs of moisture damage such as rot or mold. If your siding has faded or is badly damaged and otherwise no longer performing its protective duties satisfactorily, then that could be indicative that it is time for repairs or replacement.
Can I use a pressure washer to clean my siding?
Yes, but with caution. Pressure washers should be used on areas where the siding is strong enough to withstand their effect, and the minimum pressure that can do the job should always be applied to avoid potential damage. This includes keeping the nozzle at least a foot or more away from the siding.
