Vinyl siding is a fantastic investment for your home, but you’ll have to take steps to care for it. Following a few maintenance tips can protect the quality of the vinyl for a longer period, so you’ll get more out of that investment. Here are some ways to ensure your home’s siding lasts for as long as possible.

How to Maintain Your Vinyl Siding

1. Protect Against Damage

It’s not uncommon for people to lean bicycles, motorcycles, lawnmowers, and other heavy equipment up against the side of the house. Unfortunately, the pressure can cause the siding to break or crack.

This is especially common in colder climates, where changing seasons can render the siding brittle and weaker. If a piece of siding does become damaged, replace it to ensure the underlying materials aren’t damaged by rain, snow, or ice.

2. Avoid Using Abrasive or Corrosive Cleaners

When you notice a stain or dirt on your vinyl siding, you should clean the area, but be wary of the types of solutions you use. Substances, such as straight bleach, chlorine, or grease removers, can damage the vinyl surface. Other cleaning solutions that can permanently damage the material include acetone-based cleaners, such as nail polish remover, and furniture polish. 

3. Use a Power Washer Once a Year 

Power washing your siding on an annual basis will help you keep the vinyl clean without causing damage to the material. Doing this yearly will ensure dust and grime won’t settle into the pores of the material.

Once dirt and dust settle, it becomes difficult to clean. This is why some homes that aren’t regularly cleaned end up looking dirty, even after a good washing. 

4. Watch for Signs of Leaks

The elements don’t easily damage vinyl. That’s not to say the underlying wood can’t suffer more severe damage as the result of exposure to rain, snow, and high winds. If you see moisture or stains on your siding, or collecting at the foundation, this is a sign that there may be damage somewhere beneath the siding.

Alternatively, the siding itself may have a small crack or crevice. Identifying these problems through regular inspections, and getting them repaired, will help you avoid the decaying wood that can cause structural problems to develop.

Vinyl siding can protect your home from harsh weather while providing your home with a beautiful look. Backed by more than 20 years of experience, Minnesota Roofing Company provides homes throughout the Saint Paul area with quality siding and roofing services. The family-owned business can provide you with any type of roofing or siding installation and repairs you may need to keep your home protected. To request a free estimate, visit their website or call (952) 451-1978.