Whether traditional vinyl or HardiePlank fiber cement siding, siding has many advantages. One of them is
the ease of which it is to keep siding clean. The project can be a significant undertaking, but one that
refreshes your home of the dirt and debris build-up that can accumulate over the course of a year.
Typically, once to twice-yearly cleaning can be enough to keep your siding looking its best.

Although these are general recommendations for keeping home siding products like HardiePlank siding
clean, it’s a good idea to check with the manufacturer’s recommendations before cleaning to ensure there
are or are not specific recommended products.

Cleaning Supplies

To clean your siding, you’ll need to collect a few key materials. These include a bucket, soft-bristled and
long-handled brush, and cleaning agent. Typically, trisodium phosphate is a good choice as it is easily able
to cut through dirt and debris on siding. Also known as TSP, trisodium phosphate is available at most
grocery stores, hardware stores, and home improvement centers. Another option is oxygen bleach, which
will help you clean your home without damaging nearby landscaping.

Mix the TSP and water into a bucket as directed by the manufacturer’s label. Typically, this includes onehalf
cup of TSP and a gallon of water.

The Cleaning Process

Typically, dividing your home into imaginary sections can help you “divide and conquer” the cleaning
project. This way you can track your progress should the endeavor take you more than one day. Saturate
your brush with the soapy water and clean from top to bottom. This will reduce the appearance of
streaking as you clean. Rinse each panel frequently. Many people will adopt a routine, such as cleaning
three panels of 10-foot sections.

Cleaning “Don’ts”

Some products and brush types shouldn’t be used on siding. Examples of don’ts in terms of cleansers is to
avoid using concentrated chlorine bleach, nail polish remover, furniture polish, or liquid grease removers.
These products are usually considered too damaging for siding. Other “don’ts” include to avoid harsh
cleaners, such as steel wool.

To Pressure Wash Or Not?

The increasing availability to purchase or rent a pressure washer makes this an attractive alternative to the
brush-and clean motion. However, some manufacturers do not recommend using a pressure washer on
siding. Others may recommend a pressure limit to avoid damaging the siding. If you do choose to use a
pressure washer, point the stream directly at the siding, not upward or downward. Otherwise, the water
may direct up and under the siding, which could lead to hidden mold and mildew.

Know When It’s Time to Replace

Excellent maintenance and care for your siding can make it last for a very long time. However, sometimes
considering updating your siding to a new material or color can be just the refresh your home needs. In this
instance, the professional team at Allied Siding and Windows can be an excellent resource.

For more information and ideas on selecting the best siding for your home, contact Allied Siding.