Your home's siding plays a major role in the overall appearance and curb appeal of the house, which affects the value of the property. Caring for it correctly will help the house look more beautiful for longer. Plus, it can even save you money on repairs, since regular cleaning and maintenance will prevent some types of damage. Here's a basic overview of how to care for wood, vinyl, and metal siding.

How to Protect Your Siding

1. Paint

Vinyl siding usually comes already tinted with a no-fade color, while metal usually has a protective coating, so you don't need to paint it. However, if you want to change the color, choose an acrylic latex paint, and know that it might affect the warranty.

Also, remember you'll need to repaint every couple of years when it starts to peel. If you have painted wood siding, you'll need to reapply paint on the same schedule; if the wood is unpainted, it probably needs a finish or sealer reapplied, so follow the manufacturer's directions.

2. Cleaning

Cleaning dust, pollen, and water stains off the sides of your home will let the vibrant color underneath shine through. It will also help minimize stains, corrosion, and rot by removing debris that might trap water.

If yours is metal, clean it on an as-needed basis with a hose or pressure washer. You can use the same equipment to clean vinyl, which you only need to do about once a year. Wood also needs to be washed once a year, but it's more delicate, so use a hose with a scrub brush attachment.

3. Repairs

Wood needs to be inspected regularly— at least once a year—for insect damage, wood rot, mold, or moss. Small areas can be removed and replaced, but extensive damage may mean you need a replacement. As such, you want to catch these issues early, before they spread.

The same is true for warping and cracking; a few pieces can be replaced individually, but too much damage means you need new siding. Vinyl is difficult to patch; if it warps or cracks, you'll likely have to replace a whole panel. Metal is durable and less likely to need repairs; most damage and corrosion will sand out unless it's extensive.

For help repairing or replacing siding, choose the construction contractors at Maendele Construction in Hastings, NE. This locally owned Adams County business has over 10 years of experience and offers a 3-year guarantee on their workmanship. Call (402) 984-3906 for a free estimate or visit their website today.