How To Clean Wood Siding
A common problem with all types of house siding is dirt and mold.
Sometimes siding that looks like it needs a new coat of paint, really only need a good scrubbing this article will provide you with time saving tips on cleaning wood siding.
The most time-consuming—but thorough—way to wash siding is the old-fashioned way: with a bucket of sudsy water, a nozzle hose, and a stiff-bristle nylon scrub brush screwed onto the end of a pole.
Pressure washers make this job go by faster but not as thorough and can damage the siding and finish. If you go this route learn how to use a pressure washer.
If mildew is present, use a solution of 1 quart of bleach, ¾ gallons of water and a small amount of soap detergent. I use tr-isodium phosphate detergent [TSP].
TIPS:
- Scrub the areas with a soft-bristled, long-handled brush. Paint dealers also sell mildewcide that can be used to clean wood siding.
- Turn off all power to the outside lights that may get wet.
- Remove any items that may get in the way.
- Close windows, vents and spray in a direction away from doors and windows.
- If you have shrubbery or flowers below, make sure you cover them with plastic so no cleaning solution drips on them.
- Start at the top and work your way down, this allows the dirt to wash down and avoids staining of the bleach.
- Be sure to wet the siding first and then rinse your cleaning solution off the siding before it dries.
- Work small sections at a time.
- Wear goggles and use care on the ladder.
~ stay safe