Exterior Home Care: 4 Ways to Make Your Home Siding Shine

Homeowners usually focus on interior decor and maintenance, but the exterior of the house requires just as much attention. Siding is an essential aspect of home design that requires regular upkeep. Dirty, faded, or damaged siding can affect the curb appeal, value, and functionality of your home. Fortunately, it’s effortless to bring your siding back to life and give your home a new and refreshed look throughout the year. Here are four simple ways to enhance and maintain your home’s siding.

Regular and Thorough Washing of Home Siding is Vital

Dirt, grime, and mildew can quickly accumulate on siding, making it look old and worn out. Fortunately, a good pressure washing can remove all the dirt and bacteria that have made your home’s siding their haven. You can use a pressure washer or hire a professional pressure washing service. It’s recommended to wash your siding at least once a year to keep it looking its best.

A pressure washer can be used on a variety of siding materials, including vinyl, aluminum, wood, composite, and stucco. When using a pressure washer to clean your home’s siding, make sure you read the manufacturer’s instructions before proceeding to ensure that you don’t damage any material. Remember to use the correct pressure for the material you are cleaning. It’s also important to use soap or an approved cleaner and rinse thoroughly before drying. With proper preparation and care, you can successfully bring your siding back to life and make it shine again.

Regular Inspection and Repair of Home Siding

Whether it’s due to harsh weather conditions or accidents, siding can become cracked or damaged, affecting your home’s insulation and appearance. If the damage is noticeable, it’s vital to repair it promptly to prevent further damage that may become costly. You can patch small holes or cracks or replace the entire section of siding. Keeping your siding repaired helps maintain its functionality and prolongs its lifespan.

Materials like aluminum and vinyl siding are much easier to repair than wood, composite, or stucco. Depending on the damage, minor cracks in vinyl and aluminum can be patched easily with a patching material that matches the siding. If a larger section of siding needs replacing, it is best to consult a professional for assistance.

Wood siding is difficult to patch, and the entire piece may need to be replaced. Composite siding can also be tricky to repair because it is more delicate than other materials. Repairing stucco siding requires an experienced professional who specializes in masonry work. To keep your home’s exterior looking its best, regular maintenance and attention are key.

Paint or Staining Wood Siding

Painting your siding is an ideal way to give your home an instant facelift without replacing it entirely. It’s also beneficial in protecting it from harsh weather conditions and other environmental elements that may cause it to fade, crack, or chip. When choosing a paint color, select one that complements your home’s overall look or matches your personal preference. Try to use high-quality, low-maintenance paint that can withstand inclement weather.

No matter how well you keep up with them, there are certain siding types that should not be painted. For instance, asphalt, vinyl and aluminum siding, and stone brick veneer should all be avoided when painting. However, if you’re determined to paint one of these materials, make sure to do it correctly by using the right type of paint and primer. Otherwise, you run the risk of having a bubbling or peeling mess on your hands. Asphalt shingles, for example, should be treated with a special top-coating rather than regular exterior house paint.

Vinyl siding should not be painted at all as it can’t be easily repainted and will likely not adhere to the material, leaving you with an uneven, blotchy, and even runny paint job. Lastly, stone brick veneer should be sealed with a special sealant that is made specifically for this type of material before painting. If you attempt to paint any of these materials without taking the correct precautions, you’ll end up with an unsightly mess on your hands.

Breathtaking Landscaping Adds to the Curb Appeal

Landscaping around your siding not only boosts your home’s curb appeal but also provides a natural barrier between your siding and other elements. Bushes, trees, and flowers can help protect your siding from the sun, wind, and rain, which can cause it to fade, crack, or chip. Landscaping also provides excellent insulation for your home, reducing energy costs in both summer and winter.

Creating a lush flower bed is an easy and affordable way to add some color and life to your landscaping. Start by planning out the shape, size, and location of your flower bed. Then choose a variety of colorful flowers that will thrive in your climate. Plant them in well-drained soil about 8 inches apart and water them regularly. To ensure that your flowerbed is always looking fresh, add a layer of mulch to help retain moisture and keep weeds at bay. With the right maintenance, you can enjoy a stunning flower bed year-round!

Taking care of bushes and trees is important for a healthy landscape. To ensure that your plants stay in top shape, prune them regularly to keep them the desired size and shape. Additionally, watering the roots of your plants deeply at least once a week is essential for their growth. Mulching around the base of your trees helps retain moisture and control weeds. Fertilizing every few months can also help maintain the health and vigor of your plants, as well as amplify their color and texture. With the right care, your bushes and trees will be a beautiful addition to your home’s exterior.

Final Thoughts on Home Siding

Maintaining your home’s siding may seem like a daunting task, but it’s effortless with regular upkeep. Washing, repairing, painting, and landscaping your siding enhances your home’s appearance and prolongs its lifespan, making it an excellent investment. Take time to assess the condition and needs of your home’s siding and make a maintenance plan to ensure it always shines throughout the year.