Maintenance Tips: Keeping Your Siding in Great Shape

Constant exposure to the elements can take a toll on a home or building’s exterior, particularly residential and commercial siding. That’s why routine maintenance is a must.

Here are some tips on keeping your siding in great shape:

Apply a Fresh Coat of Paint 

Reapplying a fresh coat of durable, waterproof paint helps maintain your home’s curb appeal and ensures your siding is protected from the elements. As a good rule of thumb, you should repaint your siding every five to 10 years, although this varies depending on the type of siding installed and the climate in your area. For instance, wooden siding should be repainted every three to seven years, aluminum siding every five years and fiber cement siding every 10 to 15 years.

Don’t forget that certain kinds of paint are more suitable for specific types of siding. For instance, most contractors would recommend using exterior-grade acrylic paint for fiber cement siding.

Clean Your Siding Using a Mild Solution 

It’s best to use a mild cleaning solution made from detergent when cleaning your siding. If you’re going to use chemical cleaners, make sure to check the siding manufacturer’s manual and the solution’s label for any chemicals that could damage your siding.

Avoid Using Pressure Washers

Pressure washers can help make cleaning your siding faster and easier, but it can also damage parts of your exterior if the pressure setting is too high.

When It’s Time for a Siding Replacement 

Of course, a fresh coat of paint can only do so much. If your siding’s looking a bit worn, you might want to start planning your re-siding project. By choosing durable siding that’s suited to your climate, you can reduce your exterior’s maintenance needs.

If you’re looking for a siding replacement, it’s best to stick to tried-and-trusted brands such as James Hardie®. This manufacturer offers siding and trim products with ColorPlus® technology. Siding with ColorPlus® Technology is specifically designed to resist fading caused by ultraviolet rays, ensuring that your siding’s colors remain vibrant for longer.

Eagle Creek Siding, LLC, a contractor with over 35 years of experience, offers a wide range of professional exterior services, including multi-family siding. To request an estimate, call us at (360) 570-0396 or fill out this form.