Vinyl siding has become the most preferred choice because of its efficiency, durability, affordability, and low-maintenance nature. Vinyl siding resists decay, breakdown, and warping, unlike wood and other traditional materials considered for residential siding; thus, it generally outlasts most other siding materials.
Although it technically could be considered a “low-maintenance” option, it does not mean no maintenance at all – you will want to take care of your siding regularly to keep it looking its best and performing well for decades.
A simple care routine can go a long way when protecting your vinyl siding and keeping it looking fresh. In this blog, we will share some wonderful tips and action items for maintaining vinyl siding to protect the longevity of the material and the curb appeal of your home.
1. Make Repairs Quickly:
A small repair to vinyl siding could quickly escalate to a much larger problem. A panel that is exposed to wind and loose may end up ripping off other panels, the small hole may end up letting water behind the siding, leading to mold and rot on the sheathing behind this siding.
Addressing your little repair tasks as you notice them is an easy and inexpensive way to preserve the value of your whole system. If, but again, you find yourself needing repairs that concern you more than a little repair, find a professional to assure it gets repaired adequately.
2. Landscaping
Plants in your gardens often inadvertently cause surface harm due to their abrasive form. The house also needs regular care of its bushes or trees, and vines to keep them at a safe distance away from the building. Whenever high winds bring tree branches in contact with house siding this will often lead to surface damage through scratching and scuffing. Maintaining the area around your house with proper air circulation will also dry out siding quickly after a rain shower, thus minimizing the chances of mildew
3. Refresh When Necessary
Over time, some fading occurs naturally, especially in portions directly exposed to sunlight. While vinyl requires no paint application, you can refresh it with vinyl-safe paint for outdoor use, if necessary, to enhance the look of older siding without an entire replacement.
4. Avoid Impact Damage:
Even though vinyl siding mostly stays strong throughout the years, it can experience some unforeseen impacts. In order to eliminate that type of negating outcome, keep all hand tools and equipment out of the way. If the area you live in is prone to high winds, ensure there is nothing loose outside of your house, i.e., garbage cans, sitting area furniture, etc. These things may seem minor, but they can turn into cracks, dents, or repairs for your siding that can be very expensive.
5. Check for Damage Seasonally:
Around twice a year, or maybe during the spring and fall cleaning, take a slow walk around your home to review the siding.
Look for Cracks or Holes: Even small punctures permit moisture to get behind the siding. They can oftentimes be fixed with a color-matched vinyl patching compound.
Check the seam and trim: Whenever you are looking at the pieces that go around the windows, doors and corners (J-channel and corner posts), make sure they are safe and properly secured.
6. Look for Gaps and Reseal:
Using siding for a water shed product is just half of the story; sealing windows, doors, vents, and even electrical boxes is an equally important part of the function of siding. Caulking can age, dry out, crack, or shrink, which sometimes leaves small unintentional gaps for moisture to enter. Be sure to inspect these areas regularly, and look for caulking that looks turned or damaged, or failing, and take the time to remove it. Reseal with good-quality exterior silicone or acrylic latex caulk. This is an easy maintenance item and will help keep water out and protect you against the expensive hidden damage that could happen behind your siding.
Conclusion
Vinyl siding provides the correct mixture of strength and low maintenance for today’s home. But a little effort goes a long way to create true enjoyment from those benefits. Washing your siding, at least once a year, checking for damage, sealing any gaps, and protecting it from heat and impact will make a huge difference in how long it will last and the good condition it will be in.
Think of maintenance of your vinyl siding as an investment in your home’s future value and curb appeal, rather than a hassle. A couple of hours of your time a year will allow your siding to be able to endure and look great for decades.
