Keeping your home’s siding in good condition is a priority for many homeowners, but before you get started, you might ask, “does bleach harm siding?”
Since siding is outside your home, it’s more than likely going to accumulate dirt, grime and in shady and moist areas, the siding can also grow mildew and mold. Not to mention the staining that can come from bird droppings, insects, spider webs, pollen, and rust. While vinyl siding is durable, it does require maintenance and occasional cleaning. So before cleaning, you might wonder what kind of cleaning chemicals are a good option and which ones to stay away from. Keep reading to learn more about proper cleaning techniques for your siding.
Bleach for Home Siding
So, does bleach harm siding? No, it does not! Even though we typically think of bleach as a cleaning solution that is used in kitchens and bathrooms, it turns out it works well outdoors too. As long as you use it properly, bleach is okay for cleaning your siding and using a ratio of 0.4 parts bleach to 1 part water. Since bleach is highly corrosive, failure to properly dilute the bleach properly can harm the vinyl. You can mix the water and bleach together in a spray bottle, spray the siding directly, and use a microfiber cloth to wipe off any debris and staining. Using bleach is a great way to cut through the mold, mildew, and challenging stains.
Other Homemade Cleaning Solutions for Siding
According to Bob Vila, other cleaning solutions will do a great job at cleaning your home’s siding. If you’re hesitant to use a simple bleach solution on your home, try these ideas:
- For a more gentle cleaning solution, use a solution that is 70% water and 30% white vinegar. This can get rid of some light staining and a little mildew and mold.
- Mix one-third cup powdered laundry detergent, two-thirds cup powdered household cleaner, one-quart liquid laundry bleach, and one gallon of water. This solution is fairly strong and will cut through almost anything.
- For a homeowner with landscaping and wants to protect their plants, use a solution consisting of one gallon of water mixed with one cup of oxygen bleach. Oxygen bleach is the perfect solution to cleaning the vinyl without damaging your landscaping.
How to Use a Homemade Cleaning Solution for Siding
- MIx up the cleaning solution of your choice and pour it into a pump sprayer.
- Depending on the solution you have chosen, cover your grass and plants with a plastic sheet to prevent damage to the plants.
- Spray the solution directly onto the siding, covering the surface entirely.
- Let the solution sit on the surface of the siding for about 10-15 minutes.
- If there is any staining, use a brush with soft bristles to scrub them out.
- Rinse off the surface with water, make sure the water stream is at eye level and pointed straight at the vinyl siding so that the water doesn’t get lodged underneath the siding.
Contact Mountain States Windows & Siding
So, does bleach harm siding? It turns out the answer is no! Sometimes, all you need to do is give your siding a good old-fashioned washing, but when it’s time to replace the siding altogether, Mountain States Windows & Siding is here to help! Not only do we provide excellent workmanship, but we also pride ourselves on our exceptional customer service. So if you’re in Salt Lake Valley or Utah Valley in Utah, and you’re ready for new siding, you’ll love the options we offer. Contact us today to learn more about our services and to get a free estimate!
