Each type of siding or exterior home material has a different method. As
the weather starts to cool down it's a good time to check
the outside of your house for anything that needs to be
repaired.
VINYL SIDING
If your siding is just moderately soiled you can clean with
a hose that has a sprayer end on it, or just use a car-washing
brush and water. Always start at the bottom and work your
way UP when washing siding so the water doesn't drip down,
causing streaks that are sometimes hard to remove. You can
use this solution for the siding if it needs more cleaning:
Mix 1/3 cup powdered laundry detergent and 2/3 cup
powdered household cleaner like Spic & Span, in one
gallon of water. Use the same method starting at the
bottom and rinse the siding with water before the soap
dries. If you find any mildew on the siding you can mix
water and vinegar together and wash the area, then rinse.
WOOD SIDING
Don't use a high pressure sprayer on wood siding. Depending
on the type of wood and the age it could damage it and leave
marks. Use a mild soap solution as mentioned for vinyl siding
and again use the vinegar solution (3 parts water to 1 part of
vinegar) to clean any mildew. When doing this test a section
of the siding first to make sure it doesn't fade the paint. Also
wear protective gloves and wash carefully so you don't damage
plants around the house.
BRICK
Once a year spray your brick off with the hose and a spray nozzle.
You may find moss or mildew on brick too. A solution of one
cup of bleach mixed with a gallon of water can be used with a
stiff brush to clean this off. Don't use wire brushes or synthetic
brushes--they can discolor the brick--use a natural fiber brush.
Soak the brick before washing with the bleach solution.
STONE
To clean stone walls, fences or other structures, wash with a
mild soap solution.. Rinse well with clear water and let dry.
MORE NOTES:
If you are thinking about painting your house this year wait
until the days are milder-no 90 degree days-but it should be
above 50 degrees with no rain predicted for at least 2 days.
Paint in the shade whenever possible---starting on the shady
side first and working your way around. This goes for any
outside painting projects.
About the Author:
Brenda Hyde is a wife, mom to three kids and a freelance
writer. She is the editor/owner of Old Fashioned Living and sends out
two free email newsletters. You can sign up for them HERE
