While vinyl siding is a durable siding solution that’s easy to maintain and low cost, it requires proper care to remain in excellent condition. Maintaining your vinyl siding safeguards your investment and ascertains that your home stays desirable and attractive. Keeping your siding clean also extends its lifespan.
Proper care helps spot any signs of tear or damage to your vinyl siding. Resolving these problems early can avoid premature replacements or more significant repairs. Discussed below are four crucial maintenance tips for vinyl siding.
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1- Replace Your Vinyl Siding
Although vinyl siding lasts long, it suffers damage and deteriorates over time. If your siding is beginning to show signs of aging, updating it can help enhance the longevity and aesthetic appeal of your house’s protective covering.
You may also need to replace your vinyl siding if it:
- Warps or buckles: This shows that your vinyl siding wasn’t installed correctly
- Cracks and breaks: Tiny cracks can quickly become major issues, letting moisture penetrate and increasing the possibility of structural damage, or it’s been exposed to excess heat
- Leaks or rots: Vinyl siding has excellent moisture resistance. Nevertheless, if water gets beneath your siding, fungus can grow on the wood underneath it. Moisture in your vinyl siding can seep into your home’s exterior, which is a significant problem
If the damages are few and minor, learning how to install vinyl siding can help you fix them on your own. However, leaving the job to a professional would be more advisable if the siding is damaged all around the house.
2- Prevent Mold and Mildew
Vinyl siding is prone to mold and mildew growth, particularly in damp or humid environments. Poor drainage or ventilation can also contribute to this issue. If not checked, mold and mildew can cause odors and unsightly stains.
To keep mold and mildew from growing on your vinyl siding:
- Ensure it’s always dry and clean
- Trim any bushes or trees touching your home’s siding to improve sunlight exposure and airflow
- Divert water from your vinyl siding by installing a gutter system
3- Clean Your Vinyl Siding Regularly
Cleaning your home’s vinyl siding is key to maintaining its beauty and longevity. It ensures contaminants don’t build up on your walls. Don’t use harsh chemicals like ammonia or bleach when cleaning because they can damage or discolor the surface. Rather, use gentle cleaning solutions made specially for vinyl siding.
The frequency of cleaning your vinyl siding depends on your area’s environmental and climate conditions. It’s recommended that vinyl siding should be cleaned once or twice a year. However, if your locality experiences high pollution or humidity, you might have to clean your vinyl siding more regularly.
4- Conduct Regular Vinyl Siding Inspections
Vinyl siding is susceptible to damage from sunlight, accidental impacts, or inclement weather. Periodic siding inspections can help you spot and fix any issues before they escalate. Some of the problems you may identify when inspecting your siding include warping, cracks, fading, and mold or mildew growth.
Should you notice any small damage to your vinyl siding, including a tiny hole or crack, a patching material or vinyl repair kit can help you fix it. If your siding suffers extensive damage or you don’t wish to repair it yourself, a siding contractor can help.
Endnote
Proper vinyl siding care increases your home’s curb appeal and the longevity of its protective material. Replacing your vinyl, preventing mold and mildew, cleaning your siding regularly, and conducting regular inspections are some of the crucial vinyl maintenance tips to consider.
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