Would you like to make your home’s exterior look as good as new? If so, then power washing aluminum siding may be the perfect solution for you! Power washing is one of the easiest and most effective ways to keep your house looking its best. It can remove dirt, dust, algae, mold, mildew and other debris that can accumulate on your aluminum siding over time. Plus, it’s fast and relatively inexpensive compared with traditional methods of cleaning surfaces such as scraping or sanding down paintwork.
So let’s discuss the specifics of power washing siding, the benefits of using this method, plus some tips & tricks on what special equipment might come in handy for successful results!
Why Deep Clean a Home’s Exterior?
Deep cleaning the exterior of a home can have several benefits. It helps to remove dirt, debris, and other buildup that has been left on the sides of the house or in crevices for extended periods of time. This will not only make your home look nicer, but it also ensures that any damage or mold caused by these elements is removed.
Deep cleaning can help to prevent further damage from occurring, as well as extend the life of your paint job. Regular and proper deep cleaning can increase the value of your property. As you can see, there are many advantages to deep cleaning the exterior of your home. Taking steps now to ensure that this important task is done correctly will pay off in the long run. [1]
What Types of Cleaning Exterior Are There?
Exterior cleaning is a great way to keep your home looking its best, and there are several types of exterior cleaning that can be used.
Pressure washing is one of the most popular options for giving a house’s exterior a thorough clean. With pressure washing, high-powered streams of water are used to blast away dirt and debris from surfaces like siding, brick, concrete, decks and patios. The power behind the water helps remove any mildew or mold that may be on the surface as well.
Gutter cleaning is another way to keep your home looking great, as clogged gutters can lead to water damage and other problems. This type of cleaning involves manually removing debris from the troughs of the gutter and flushing them with water until they are clear. Gutter guards may also be installed in certain areas to prevent leaves, twigs and other debris from getting into the gutter system.
Window cleaning is yet another form of exterior cleaning that requires special tools and materials in order to get the job done right. Professional window cleaners use ladders, poles and squeegees to reach up high and clean the glass from both sides. This helps keep windows looking clear and free of any dirt build-up, making them sparkle like they’re brand new. [3]
Cleaning the exterior of your home is an important task that can help keep it in great shape for years to come. Be sure to choose the type of cleaning that is best suited for your particular needs, whether it be power washing, softwashing or window cleaning. With proper care and maintenance, you can keep your home looking its best all year round.
Care Specifics of Aluminum Siding
Aluminum siding is a popular choice for exterior home finishes because it offers a wide range of benefits. It is strong, durable and can resist extreme weather conditions such as hail. It also requires minimal maintenance and upkeep.
It is resistant to fading or chalking, which means that the paint job will remain looking good for many years. Furthermore, aluminum siding does not rot and insects cannot penetrate it like they can other materials like wood. This makes aluminum siding an ideal option for areas prone to pests and moisture damage.
It also reflects sunlight away from your home, helping to keep the interior cool during hot days and reducing energy costs over time. Aluminum siding comes in a variety of colors and styles, and can be painted to match any home’s exterior design.
When caring for aluminum siding, it is important to wipe the surface down with a soft cloth regularly. This will remove any dirt and debris that has accumulated over time. Additionally, you should pressure wash your aluminum siding at least once a year to help keep it looking new. If you notice a build-up of mildew or mold, use a solution of one part bleach to three parts water and scrub lightly with a brush until the stains are removed. Make sure to rinse the area thoroughly afterwards with clean water.[4]
Why Power Wash Aluminum Siding?
It is a great way to make your home look and feel like new again. It can also help protect your investment by removing dirt, grime, mold, and other debris that may be damaging the siding. You can restore its brilliant shine as well as reduce the buildup of pollutants on the surface. In addition to this, washing can also kill any unwanted pests such as mosquitoes, spiders, or other insects that may have made a home in your siding’s crevices.
Pressure washing will also help remove any deposits that are left behind from air pollution or car exhaust fumes. Finally, regular procedures extend the life of your aluminum siding and keep it looking beautiful for years to come.
It is a fairly easy and cost-effective way to keep your home looking great, so make sure you take the time out of your schedule this spring or summer to give it a good scrub down. It’s worth the effort and you’ll be glad you did when you notice how much brighter and cleaner your home looks after pressure washing. [5]
The Risks of Power Wash Aluminum Siding
As in any other business, there are certain risks that you should be aware of.
The first risk is damage to the siding itself. Power washing with too much pressure or at an incorrect angle can cause dents and scratches on the surface, ruining its aesthetic appeal. Furthermore, spraying water onto seams between sections can seep into joints and cause rusting from within, leading to more costly repairs in the future.
Another risk is damaging surrounding landscaping or other structures on your property.
Improperly executing power washing can be hazardous. The pressure of the water from the washer can cause it to kick back and hit you in the face, resulting in serious injury. Furthermore, there is always a risk of electric shock when operating any kind of power tool near sources of water. [6]
To reduce these risks, it is important to use caution and take safety measures. Wear protective eyewear and clothing, make sure that plants and other structures are out of harm’s way, keep kids and pets away from the area while working, and follow all manufacturer’s instructions for proper use. Additionally, it is always best to hire an experienced professional to do the job for you.
By being aware of the risks and taking steps to reduce them, you can enjoy a clean and beautiful exterior in your home without any problems.
What Equipment to Apply When Washing Aluminum Siding?
The most important piece of equipment is a pressure washer. Pressure washing uses high levels of water pressure to penetrate even the toughest dirt. Additionally, you can use special non-abrasive detergent for extra cleaning power.
It’s important to rinse the surface thoroughly after cleaning and use only lukewarm water to avoid damage. Be sure to thoroughly dry the area after rinsing as well. Following these steps will help you keep your aluminum siding looking like new.
10 Steps to Follow When Power Washing Your Aluminum Siding
Step 1
Set up your washer, connecting the garden hose and ensuring that all connections are secure.
Step 2
Test the pressure on an inconspicuous area of aluminum siding before beginning. This will help you to determine the correct setting for your particular project.
Step 3
Begin washing in sections from top to bottom, using a slow sweeping motion with the nozzle about 4 feet away from the aluminum siding. Be sure not to spray directly at any seams or joints in order to avoid damage.
Step 4
Rinse off each section thoroughly after washing it with a gentle stream of water from your garden hose.
Step 5
To clean the more stubborn dirt and grime, use a mixture of dish soap and warm water with a non-abrasive scrub brush or sponge. Scrub lightly in circular motions and rinse off with your garden hose.
Step 6
For persistent stains on aluminum siding, apply a degreaser.
Step 7
Make sure to pay close attention to windowsills, doors, corners, edges of rooflines and any other areas where dirt has accumulated.
Step 8
Use an extension ladder if the height of your home requires it. Do not overreach and be sure to take safety precautions when operating a ladder.
Step 9
Once you have finished power washing the aluminum siding, use a garden hose to spray down the rest of your home’s exterior. This will help reduce any of the soap or cleaning products that may have run off in a single area.
Step 10
Allow the aluminum siding to dry completely before applying any type of sealant or coating if desired. Take this time to inspect for any areas that may need further attention before sealing and proceed as necessary. [7]
Done! Now your aluminum siding is clean and ready for whatever you choose to do next. Enjoy the results of your hard work, and the fresh look of your home.
Precautions When Washing Aluminum Siding
Follow these precautions to keep your siding nice and well-maintained:
- Use a gentle detergent and soft-bristle brush to avoid damaging the siding. Do not use any abrasive cleaning agents like steel wool or scouring pads.
- Avoid using a pressure washer when cleaning aluminum siding, as it can cause damage and denting.
- Make sure to test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area of the siding first to ensure that no discoloration occurs before proceeding with larger areas.
- Wear protective clothing, such as gloves and eyewear, while washing your aluminum siding in order to protect yourself from harsh chemicals and potential injury from slipping or falling.
- Clean one section of siding at a time and rinse it off completely before moving onto the next section.
- When finished, use a clean cloth to dry the siding and remove any remaining residue or dirt that could lead to staining or discoloration of the aluminum.
- Seal the cleaned aluminum siding with an appropriate sealant in order to protect it from moisture and further damage caused by weathering.
- Carefully inspect your aluminum siding for any signs of rust, corrosion, or other damage after each cleaning session and make repairs as necessary in order to maintain its longevity and appearance.
- Reapply the sealant to the aluminum siding periodically in order to ensure that it is adequately protected and looking its best.
- When possible, enlist the help of a professional cleaning service in order to safely and efficiently clean your aluminum siding. This will reduce the risk of damage or discoloration caused by improper use or mishandling of cleaning tools and solutions.
FAQs
What is best to clean aluminum siding?
To clean aluminum siding, it is best to use a mild detergent and warm water. Use a soft-bristled brush or cloth and scrub the siding gently to avoid damaging it. After cleaning, be sure to rinse the area thoroughly with clean water. For tougher stains, you may need to use something stronger such as a household cleaner or a commercial window cleaner. It may also help to apply a clear coating after cleaning in order to restore its shine and protect it from future dirt and grime.
Is it safe to power wash aluminum siding?
Generally speaking, it is safe as long as certain precautions are taken. First and foremost, use the lowest setting possible. Ensure that you keep the pressure washer at least 8 inches away from the surface being washed to avoid any damage. It’s also important to angle the wand in a downward motion rather than up or across, as this will prevent puddles of water collecting inside your siding, which can cause staining and discoloration. Finally, be sure to only use cleaning solutions designed for aluminum siding—never bleach or other harsh chemicals.
Should you power wash aluminum siding before painting?
Yes. Power washing will remove dirt, pollen, mold spores, and mildew from the surface of the siding so that the paint adheres properly. It will also help expose any flaws such as cracks or holes that need to be repaired before painting. Additionally, power washing will create a rougher surface texture which helps the paint adhere better than if it were painted onto a smooth surface.
Can I pressure wash with just water?
Yes, you can use just water to pressure wash, but the results won’t be as effective as using a detergent with the water. Pressure washers are usually used to remove dirt, grime, mold, and mildew from surfaces so a detergent helps cut through these tough substances better than just water alone. If you choose to use only water for your pressure washing tasks, make sure that you have a good nozzle on your machine set at the correct pressure setting in order to get the best possible results. Additionally, it may take you longer to clean since you don’t have any cleaning agents or detergents working together with the pressurized water. Using both water and detergent will give you more power and faster cleaning.
Useful Video: Can You Clean Aluminum Siding?
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, power washing is an effective way to see immediate results. However, it is essential to take the proper precautions beforehand in order to avoid the risk of damaging your siding. With a few simple steps and understanding what needs to be done before you start the process of power washing, you can have your aluminum siding in its original condition or better. If given the resources to rent or purchase a power washer and use it safely, then power washing may prove beneficial for those who are looking for an alternative solution to hand washing their aluminum siding.
References:
- https://www.meninkilts.com/articles/blog/exterior-cleaning-tips/5-reasons-cleaning-your-home-s-exterior-is-a-nec/
- https://www.pumptec.com/blog/soft-wash-vs-pressure-wash
- https://nedstevensli.com/window-cleaning-tips/
- https://info.fascoamerica.com/blog/metal-siding-maintenance
- https://www.jasteam.com/3-benefits-of-pressure-washing-the-exterior-of-your-home
- https://www.trottaspowerwashing.com/blog/power-wash-aluminum-siding-challenges/
- https://readytodiy.com/how-to-pressure-wash-aluminum-siding-0052/
