How often should I really clean my siding here in Sevierville?
This is probably the most common question we get, and there is no single perfect answer for everyone. It really depends on a few things. If your home is tucked away in a shady, wooded area, especially on the north side, you will see more green stuff, like algae and mildew, pop up faster. This is because those areas stay damp longer and do not get much direct sunlight to dry things out. Our humid climate here in East Tennessee, with all the rain we get, encourages that kind of growth.
For most homes around here in Sevierville, we would say a good, thorough siding cleaning once a year is a solid plan. If you have a lot of trees around your place, or if you notice that green film showing up quicker, you might need to clean your siding every 6 to 9 months. Vinyl Siding and Aluminum Siding can often go a bit longer, maybe every 1-2 years, but Wood Siding, being more delicate, really benefits from a Siding Cleaning every 6-12 months. Fiber Cement Siding usually needs a wash every 12-18 months. The key is to keep an eye on your siding. If you see visible dirt, discoloration, or those green or black spots, it is time to get your siding cleaned.
What is the deal with green stuff on my siding, and how do I get rid of it?
That green stuff you are seeing on your siding is usually algae, sometimes mold or mildew. It thrives in moist, shaded conditions, which we have plenty of around Sevierville, especially on those north-facing walls or under overhangs. It is not usually harmful to your siding right away, but it looks terrible and can eventually lead to stains or even trap moisture against your home.
To get rid of the green stuff on your siding, you will want to use a cleaning solution specifically designed for mold and mildew. Many professionals use a soft wash technique with specialized cleaners that kill the algae at the source. For DIY, a diluted bleach solution (one part bleach to four parts water for general mold and mildew, or one cup of bleach per gallon of water for brick) can work, but you have to be careful to protect your plants and rinse thoroughly. Some people use a mixture of water and white vinegar (70% water, 30% vinegar for Vinyl Siding, or a three-to-one water to vinegar for mildew). There are also commercial mildew cleaners like Jomax, Mildew Check, or Mold Armor that are safe for Fiber Cement Siding.
Can I just pressure wash my siding myself?
We know those pressure washers look powerful and like they will get the job done fast. But here is the honest truth: using a high-pressure washer on your siding can cause a lot more harm than good. Apex Siding has seen cracked or warped panels, water forced behind the siding where it can lead to mold, rot, and even structural damage inside your walls. It can strip paint, damage finishes, and even void your siding's warranty.
Most siding manufacturers, including big names like James Hardie, recommend low-pressure or soft washing methods for cleaning siding. If you are going to use a pressure washer for your siding, you need to use a very low setting (around 1,000-1,500 PSI maximum), use a wide-angle nozzle, and always spray downwards at a 45-degree angle to avoid forcing water up under the panels. It is better to consider a soft wash system that relies on cleaning solutions rather than brute force.
What kind of cleaning solutions are safe for different types of siding?
This is important because what works for one type of siding might damage another. Here is a quick rundown for Sevierville homes:
- Vinyl Siding: A simple mix of mild dish soap and water often does the trick for general dirt. For tougher stains or mildew on Vinyl Siding, a 70% water and 30% white vinegar solution or a diluted bleach solution (50/50 bleach and water) can be used. There are also commercial Vinyl Siding cleaners like Simple Green, Krud Kutter, or Mold Armor. Always rinse your Vinyl Siding thoroughly.
- Fiber Cement Siding (like James Hardie): This material is durable, but you still need to be gentle. For dirt and grease on Fiber Cement Siding, warm water and mild dish soap (like Dawn) with a soft cloth or brush is usually enough. For mold or mildew, use a commercial mildew cleaner that is safe for Fiber Cement Siding, like Jomax or Mildew Check, or a diluted bleach solution. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive tools on Fiber Cement Siding.
- Wood Siding: Wood Siding needs the most care. Start by brushing off loose debris from the Wood Siding. Then, use a mild soap and water solution with a soft-bristled brush, scrubbing gently. Rinse the Wood Siding thoroughly with clean water and let it dry completely before any sealing or painting. Never use chlorine bleach on cedar Wood Siding, as it can cause irreversible damage; oxygen-based cleaners are better for Wood Siding. Some specialized Wood Siding cleaners are available, like Messmer's, which is a two-part system for cleaning and brightening Wood Siding.
- Brick & Stucco: For Brick Siding, often just a hose-down once a year is enough. If you have mold or mildew on Brick Siding, a solution of one gallon of water and one cup of bleach with a bristle brush (not wire) works, but remember to protect plants. For Stucco Siding, use a garden hose with a spray nozzle or a pressure washer on a low setting, and a solution of laundry soap and water. Do not pressure wash Stucco Siding.
Should I clean from top to bottom or bottom to top?
Here is a little trick that makes a big difference for your siding cleaning: always apply your cleaning solution from the bottom of your siding and work your way up. This helps prevent streaking on the siding. When you rinse the siding, though, you want to start at the top and rinse downwards. This ensures all the dirty water and cleaning solution runs off properly and does not leave streaks or residue on the siding. And do not let the cleaning solution dry on the siding before rinsing, especially in our summer sun here in Sevierville.
What about protecting my landscaping and home during cleaning?
This is very important for your Sevierville home. Before you start spraying anything, make sure you pre-wet all your plants, shrubs, and landscaping around the house with fresh water. If you are using stronger cleaning solutions, it is a good idea to cover sensitive plants with tarps to protect them from runoff. Also, tape off any sensitive electrical outlets and make sure all your windows and doors are closed tight to prevent water from getting inside your home.
Another thing Apex Siding always tells people around Sevierville is to trim back any overgrown trees, shrubs, or vines that are too close to your house. They trap moisture against the siding, which is a breeding ground for algae and mildew. Keeping them at least 12 inches away from your siding can make a big difference in how often you need to clean your siding.
Is it better to DIY or hire a professional for siding cleaning?
Honestly, it depends on your comfort level, the size of your house, and what kind of shape your siding is in. For a simple, annual rinse of Vinyl Siding, you might be able to DIY with a garden hose and mild soap. But for tougher stains, mold, or mildew, especially on higher areas or more delicate materials like Wood Siding, a professional is often worth it.
Professionals like us at Apex Siding have the right equipment and the right cleaning solutions for different siding materials, and we know how to use them without damaging your Sevierville home. We are trained in soft washing techniques that clean effectively without the risks of high-pressure washing. Plus, we can spot potential issues you might miss on your siding. A professional house wash for a standard home around Sevierville might run you a few hundred dollars, which is a small price to pay to protect your investment and avoid costly mistakes. If you are unsure, or if your siding has not been cleaned in a while, give Apex Siding a call for Siding Cleaning. We will give you an honest assessment and help you keep your Sevierville home looking its best.