Vinyl siding is a popular choice for Cape Cod and New England homeowners because of its durability, low maintenance requirements, and aesthetic appeal. CertainTeed, a leader in the vinyl siding industry, offers a gorgeous collection of vinyl siding options that can enhance the curb appeal of your home. To preserve the beauty and longevity of your CertainTeed vinyl siding, here are some helpful tips to ensure your siding looks its best year after year.
1. Check the Warranty Guidelines
CertainTeed and other manufacturers offer warranties on their vinyl siding products. These warranties often include cleaning guidelines to ensure compliance. Before you begin cleaning, consult your warranty documentation to understand any specific recommendations or restrictions. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines will help you maintain your warranty coverage.
2. Gather Your Supplies
Before you start cleaning your vinyl siding, make sure you have the necessary supplies. You’ll need a bucket, a soft-bristle brush, a garden hose with a spray nozzle, rubber gloves, and a ladder if your siding is hard to reach. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning tools, as these can damage the vinyl’s surface.
3. Prepare a Cleaning Solution
For general dirt, soot, grime, and chalkiness, you’ll simply need a mild dish detergent or general laundry detergent mixed with water. Apply the soapy mixture by hand and thoroughly rinse the siding with clean water from the garden hose. If your siding has mildew, CertainTeed recommends the following mixture for removal:
1⁄3 cup of detergent (Tide, for example)
2⁄3 cup of Trisodium Phosphate (Soilax, for example)
1 quart of 5% Sodium Hypochlorite (Clorox, for example)
3 quarts of water
(Caution: Greater concentrations may cause damage to vinyl siding. Make sure you read all warnings and precautions when working with chemicals to avoid injury. Always safely dispose of chemicals as recommended by the manufacturer.)
4. Start with a Rinse
Begin by giving your vinyl siding a thorough rinse with a garden hose. This will help remove loose dirt, debris, and cobwebs that may have accumulated on the surface. Make sure to use a gentle spray nozzle setting to avoid forcing water behind the siding panels.
5. Test in a Small Area
Before you start cleaning the entire surface, it’s a good idea to test your chosen cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the vinyl siding. This allows you to ensure that the solution doesn’t cause any discoloration or damage. Once you’re confident that the solution is safe to use, you can proceed with cleaning the entire siding.
6. Scrub Gently
Dip your soft-bristle brush into the cleaning solution and gently scrub the vinyl siding, starting from the bottom and working your way up. Avoid using excessive pressure, as this could scratch or damage the surface.
7. Rinse Thoroughly
After scrubbing a section, rinse it thoroughly with your garden hose to remove the cleaning solution and any loosened dirt. Always rinse from top to bottom to prevent streaking. Take care not to use too much pressure, as high-pressure water streams can force water behind the siding, leading to moisture-related issues.
8. Consider a Pressure Washer (with Caution)
In some cases, a pressure washer can be used to clean vinyl siding. However, you must exercise caution. Use a low-pressure setting to prevent damaging the siding or forcing water into gaps. Keep the nozzle at least a foot away from the siding to avoid causing dents or gouges.
9. Regular Maintenance
To keep your CertainTeed vinyl siding looking its best, incorporate regular maintenance into your routine. A simple rinse with a garden hose every few months can help prevent dirt and grime buildup. Additionally, keep an eye out for mold or mildew growth, especially on north facing sides of the home or areas located close to trees and shrubs.
10. Professional Cleaning
If your vinyl siding requires a more intensive cleaning, or if you’re unsure about how to proceed, consider hiring a professional cleaning service. Experienced professionals have the knowledge and equipment to clean your CertainTeed vinyl siding effectively without causing any damage.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your CertainTeed vinyl siding remains a beautiful and durable exterior feature of your home. Regular cleaning and maintenance will not only enhance your home’s curb appeal but also extend the lifespan of your siding, making it a worthwhile investment for years to come.
Are you considering vinyl siding for your home? Trust your home to a professional siding contractor with over 45 years of satisfied customers. We’ve been an A+ Rated, Accredited Member of the Better Business Bureau for over 30 years plus we’re a Certified Installer of the Vinyl Siding Institute and a 5 Star CertainTeed Siding Contractor. Over half of our business comes from repeat customers and referrals every year! We’re so confident that you’ll be happy with our work that we ask for NO deposits or payments until your project is complete. Explore our online portfolio to get inspired!
Get started on your project with a free siding quote by calling (508) 997-1111 or contact us online. Make your house a Care Free home!
