The Dos and Don’ts of Pressure Washing Vinyl Siding

Your vinyl siding is an important part of your home’s exterior. Not only does it add curb appeal, but it also helps protect your home from the elements. Over time, dirt and grime can build up on your vinyl siding, which can not only make it look unsightly but also reduce its lifespan. That’s where pressure washing comes in. Pressure washing vinyl siding can help remove all the built-up dirt and grime, restoring it to its original condition. But before you start power washing, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

Pressure washing vinyl siding is a great way to clean it and restore its original color. However, there are some dos and don’ts that you need to follow in order to avoid damaging your siding. In this article, we will discuss the proper way to pressure wash vinyl siding and how to avoid any damage.

Here’s what you need to do:

• DO test the pressure washer on a small area first. This will help you gauge the right amount of pressure to use so that you don’t damage the vinyl siding. Always start with the lowest setting and work your way up if needed.
• DO hold the pressure washer at a 45-degree angle. This will help prevent any water from seeping under the siding and causing damage. You should also keep the pressure washer nozzle about a foot away from the siding.
• DO use a cleaning solution. This will help loosen any dirt or grime that is stuck to the siding. You can either buy a commercial cleaning solution or mix your own using water and dish soap. This is a great way to avoid any damage that could be caused by using too much pressure.
• DO move the pressure washer in a back-and-forth motion. This will help ensure that you don’t miss any spots and that the entire surface is evenly cleaned. You should also start from the bottom and work your way up so that any dirt or grime that is dislodged doesn’t fall back onto the clean siding.
• DO rinse the siding with clean water afterwards. This will help remove any leftover dirt or cleaning solution. Be sure to use a low setting so that you don’t damage the siding.

Now that we’ve gone over the dos, let’s discuss the don’ts of pressure washing vinyl siding:

• DON’T use too much pressure. This is the most important rule to follow. Using too much pressure can damage the vinyl siding by causing it to crack or warp. Always start with the lowest setting and increase the pressure if needed.
• DON’T use a high-pressure nozzle. These can cause the same damage as using too much pressure. Stick to a low-pressure nozzle to be safe.
• DON’T hold the pressure washer too close to the siding. This can also cause damage. You should hold the pressure washer about a foot away from the surface of the siding.
• DON’T use a harsh cleaning solution. Avoid using any bleach or ammonia-based cleaners as these can damage the vinyl siding. Stick to a mild dish soap and water solution.
• DON’T forget to rinse the siding afterwards. This step is important in order to remove any leftover dirt or cleaning solution. Be sure to use a low setting so that you don’t damage the siding.

By following these dos and don’ts, you can pressure wash vinyl siding without damaging it. This will help keep your siding looking its best for years to come.