Benefits of Pressure Washing Vinyl Siding
Pressure washing vinyl siding can help maintain its value and prevent the buildup of mildew, dirt and other debris. While a standard garden hose can be used to wash the surface, a pressure washer provides greater reach and cleaning power.
Attach the soaping nozzle to your pressure washer wand and add detergent as directed by the manufacturer. Begin cleaning the lower part of your house, pointing the wand at eye level to avoid damaging the vinyl.
Safety First
Regularly washing vinyl siding is the best way to protect your home from mildew and dirt, and ultimately maintain its value and beauty. However, a pressure washer can be dangerous when improperly used. Using the right pressure level and nozzle is key to maintaining safety and getting your house clean.
A good start is to use a broom or brush to remove loose dirt on the surface of the vinyl siding before applying any cleaning solution. This will allow the solution to penetrate deep into the vinyl, eliminating any stubborn dirt and stains that may be present.
Once the siding is clean and free of any loose dirt, you’ll want to apply a liberal amount of your cleaning detergent solution to the siding with the sprayer set on a low pressure setting. It is important to not over-soak as excessive soap can be difficult to rinse off. Avoid spraying the windows and doors to prevent any damage to those areas.
Prep the Surface
Getting rid of unsightly dirt, mildew and mold from your vinyl siding is an easy fix when you use a pressure washer. These high-powered machines are not just fancy garden hoses and can emit up to two thousand pounds of water pressure. This means that it is vital to know how to operate a pressure washer properly and prepare your home before spraying it with water.
Start by rinsing the surface of your vinyl siding with clean water from a hose to remove any loose dirt. This will allow the cleaning solution to penetrate deeper into the material and break up tough stains. It is important to use a cleaning product that is specifically formulated for vinyl siding and is safe to use with a pressure washer.
Scrutinize the surroundings of your vinyl siding and put down a drop cloth or plastic tablecloth to protect shrubs, flowers, bushes and other sensitive areas from the high-pressure spray of the power washer. Ensure that you have the correct quick connect nozzle and are standing a few feet away from the house when you start blasting it with water.
Apply the Detergent
Before you start cleaning, make sure all objects like outdoor furniture and grills are well out of the way. You should also cover any exposed electrical components to protect them from water damage. It’s a good idea to cover plants in the area as well to protect them from bleach and soapy water.
Use a cleaning solution designed for pressure washers to get rid of any dirt, grime, or stains on the vinyl siding. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for dosage and application. If possible, look for cleaning solutions made specifically for vinyl siding to avoid causing damage.
Once the cleaner is applied, start washing from the bottom up using sweeping motions. Be careful not to spray any power wash onto areas where panels overlap like around windows and doors. Once the cleaning is done, rinse the surface thoroughly. Be sure to keep the nozzle at a reasonable distance from the vinyl siding and only move closer if you need additional cleaning power.
Rinse
Immediately after pressure washing, the entire surface should be rinsed with fresh water from a garden hose. This step removes any dirt left behind by the soapy solution and ensures all areas are cleaned, especially hard-to-reach places.
Ideally, the cleaning solution should not contain bleach or any organic solvents since these could eat away at the vinyl or shingle exterior. For tough stains, a three-to-one solution of white vinegar and water can sometimes do the trick.
When rinsing, it’s important to keep the wand at a downward angle to avoid spraying water or soap behind the lower siding slats. A ladder works well for spritzing the detergent mixture in hard-to-reach spots and helps prevent tilting the wand upward, which can cause damage to the home’s exterior. It’s generally recommended that homeowners clean their vinyl siding at least once a year to remove dust, debris and developing mold, mildew or algae. However, some areas of the country can experience heavy rains and more frequent contamination from pollen or bird poop that may require more regular cleaning.
Revive Power Washing
https://www.google.com/maps?cid=6386116562328080841
6265 Hamilton Blvd Unit 2, Allentown, PA 18106
(484) 619-0275
https://revivepowerwash.com/
