Wood is an excellent material for siding when you want your home to have an appealing, natural aesthetic. But despite these benefits, wood can be susceptible to many elements, such as rain, pests, mildew, and dirt. The good news is that, with proper maintenance, you can defend your home’s exterior from these risks and keep it looking exceptional for many years. If you’re looking to enhance and preserve your property’s aesthetic appeal, here are five essential ways to care for your home’s exterior.

Wood Siding Maintenance Tips

1. Wash It Regularly

Dirt and other contaminants can ruin the look of siding, as well as cause extensive damage over time. If you notice that the exterior is losing its luster, use a brush and warm, soapy water to scrub away dirt. Mildew should be cleaned using a 1:4 bleach-to-water solution. Rust stains, on the other hand, can be removed with a 1:4 oxalic acid-and-water mixture.

While pressure washing can be effective for heavy-duty jobs, hire a professional for this work, as the high-impact of water could cause damage.  

2. Paint or Stain It

Painting or staining should be performed about once every five years to transform the look of your wood siding and provide an extra layer of defense.

To get started, use a non-caustic stripping solution to remove existing paint from the wood. Light buffing may be necessary to prepare the surface. Next, apply a paint or stain that is specifically designed for wood. If there are any visible open areas between the panels and the underlying structure, fill the gaps with caulk.

3. Seal It

After the paint or stain dries, apply a coat of wood sealant to prevent rot and UV discoloration. This clear solution contains chemicals that create a water-resistant shield between the painted wood and the elements.

4. Refine Your Landscape

To prevent moisture and pests from penetrating the wood, make sure no shrubbery is touching the house. Ideally, any soil should be at least eight inches below the lowest panel. If you use automatic sprinklers to water your lawn, arrange the spray so that it never touches the house.

5. Inspect It Every Season

Even if your wood siding seems to be in good shape, you should closely inspect the materials once every season. During your assessment, look for common signs of damage, such as cracked caulking, mildew, deterioration, chipping paint, and warping. If you treat these problems early on, you will prevent them from getting worse.

When your home’s exterior is due for a makeover, Baybrook Remodeling offers specialized services to help. Backed by advanced equipment and more than 25 years of service in New Haven County, CT, this home remodeling contractor will install, repair, and replace wood siding. They can also build decks to elevate your property’s aesthetic appeal. Visit this contractor online to learn more about their services, or call (203) 937-6400 to request a quote for your project.