WASH IT. 

Wilson’s Home Improvement recommends that once or twice year, during the fall or spring, invest some time rinsing every bit of the siding with a garden hose to get rid of dust and dirt. If allowed to accumulate year after year, the siding will eventually begin to look distinctly grimy and won't come clean unless scrubbed. If you choose to use a power washer, be very careful. Much like your automobile, high quality vinyl siding has a clear coat to help prevent fading. If you use a power washer too close, you can peel off that protectant layer. If you have mold or mildew on your siding and need to use detergent, be certain you find one that will be friendly to any plants or shrubs that you have planted next to your home. Use a soft bristle brush or rag with a little bit of elbow grease and that should do the trick! Again, you don’t want to damage that top coat.

DON'T BASH IT.

Be mindful of how you mow your grass; blow your leaves, and where you park bicycles, etc. Vinyl siding doesn't dent but it will crack or break. You can avoid most all of the damage to your vinyl siding if you pay attention to what you are “throwing” in its direction. If you should end up with damaged sections, replace them as soon as you can.

INSPECT IT.

Although vinyl siding doesn't cause wood rot, it may conceal moisture-related problems from another source. If a leak is hidden behind the vinyl siding it may go unnoticed for a long time. Investigate any suspicious streaking or staining that appears on the vinyl itself or on the exposed foundation wall beneath, either of which may warn of hidden trouble. Because the nails or screws that secure the siding to the wall lose their holding power in rotted wood, loose areas of siding are another warning sign.

DON'T MELT IT. 

Vinyl has a low melting point and is slow to burn. You'd be amazed at the number of people who park their grills a foot away from the siding and fire them up. Then later they notice a big melted patch on the wall. Keep that barbecue a safe distance away from the wall, and be careful with those patio torches and any other sources of intense heat.

Vinyl siding as a great, low maintenance solution to beautify your home, however, you have to take care of it. If you are ready to increase the value and curb appeal of your home, call Wilson’s Home Improvement today for a free estimate.