Power Washing Vinyl Siding: If you have been noticing streaks, mildew, stains and dirt building up on your vinyl siding, it’s time for a thorough cleaning. The best way to achieve that is with power washing. However, you have to prepare and do your homework on technique. You can’t just go guns blazing at the side of your house or you could do some serious damage.
Here are six tips for power washing your vinyl siding, so you can save your energy, stay safe and finish in half the time. Of course, we always recommend you hire a professional to do this, for the best results.
1. Use Pressure Washer Detergent
Soap and water is always better than just using water. But even better than that is an approved pressure washer detergent. In fact, most power washing machines come with injectors that mix cleaning solutions into the jet stream. On the label, look for solvents that say “approved for pressure washer use.” Unapproved solvents are not necessarily environmentally friendly and can damage important pressure washer components.
2. Apply the Detergent Solution
Using a low pressure, apply the soap mixture with smooth, overlapping strokes, starting from the bottom and working your way up so as not to leave streaks. This methodical approach will ensure you don’t miss a spot.
3. Use a Brush for Those Tough Spots
If it’s been a while since your home has been cleaned, use a utility or rotating brush to loosen up the dirt layers. Just snap the brush on the end of the pressure washer wand. It will act as a foaming brush and emit a soapy solution as you go about your cleaning.
4. Let it Set in Before Rinsing
After cleaning, let it sit for about 10 minutes while it breaks down the grime, mildew and stains. If it’s a sunny day, make sure the solution doesn’t dry on the siding, which will render it less effective. Plus, it will leave marks.
5. Spray at a Distance
Keep your distance and use a low-pressure spray. Starting too close and too strong can lead to damage to the siding or the possibility that water will seep into the walls, leading to mold. Holding the wand five feet from the surface, you can gradually move closer if you need additional cleaning power.
6. Rinse
When rinsing off the solution, don’t directly aim at eaves, vents or light fixtures, as high water pressure can break windowpanes and other delicate fixtures. Make sure the angle of the wand stays pointing down so water doesn’t get under the laps of your horizontal siding. Start at the top and work down so you know the whole area is soap-free.
Contact Clearview Washing
Not ready to handle this on your own? Ensure the safest results with the pros. To book your appointment for vinyl pressure washing, contact us today at 732-462-1187. We also handle business power washing.
