Cleaning James Hardie Sidings is Easier Than You Thought!

Don’t you love how new James Hardie sidings look? All clean and bright and shiny. But a few years down the line the new-ness wears off, and your home starts looking drab. What if we told you that there was a simple way of cleaning it that would keep your siding looking fresh, no matter how aged it is? That is exactly what this blog discusses in detail.

James Hardie Siding is engineered such that it doesn’t need frequent cleanings. The material is resistant to mold and mildew formation. However, wear, dirt and debris like bird droppings and pollen will mar the appearance of your home. Thankfully, this siding is incredibly easy to clean and maintain.

Safety Precautions

Like with any project, it is important to pay attention to your safety. Wear comfortable clothing and close-toed shoes. If you suspect some tough cleaning action, you can also get a PPE kit, complete with gloves, goggles, and a face mask. The personal protective equipment will help keep you safe from chemical fumes and dust. If you are scrubbing off mold or mildew, make sure you don’t breathe it in or let it splash your skin.

Do not let children or pets near your workstation. You will also need to move the patio and other outdoor furniture. Lastly, get a partner to help you on the job. You should never climb onto the ladder without someone to securely hold the bottom.

Protect Your Landscaping

The next part deals with ensuring that your flower beds, potted plants, and other landscaping don’t get hurt in the process. Lay a thin plastic tarp over areas you suspect will be adversely affected by dirt and soap splatter. Remember that the tarpaulin is mandatory if you plan to use a strong clean agent or a power washer.

Be sure to seal shut your doors and windows such that the dirty soap water doesn’t leak into your home’s interiors. Just to be cautious, you should also disconnect power lines and switch off the lights. Protect your outdoor light fixtures with duct tape and plastic.

How Does the Weather Look?

The best weather to clean your James Hardie Siding is no rain but no direct sunlight either. The overcast, cloud cover of July - August is considered ideal siding cleaning weather. You are asked to avoid sunny days since the water may end up drying too quickly and unevenly.

Commence the Cleaning

Visit James Hardie’s official website and carefully go through the product’s specific precautions and cleaning instructions. Never use an abrasive or hard-bristled brush on your siding, it can end up damaging the finish. Dish soaps are relatively mild and biodegradable, they make the perfect siding cleaner. Reel out your garden if you find it easier to handle than a sponge or brush. Visit the hardware store for extension poles with sponge or brush heads, this will help you reach the highest nooks and crannies. When you clean the horizontal planks, move your sponge in a side-to-side motion and take extra care to rinse it free of soapy residue.

We do not recommend using a power washer unless you are very certain of your capabilities. You should also contact your siding contractor.

Salute Exteriors is Edmond’s one and only James Hardie siding elite preferred remodeler. A job done by Salute is a job well done. We guarantee you dependability, high-quality products, reliable workmanship, and peace of mind. Call us at (405) 550-2444 to know more about our products and services.