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Be Careful Pressure Washing Vinyl Siding

Weep hole under the rows, use care with pressure washers


As the season transitions and homeowners prepare for spring cleaning, attention naturally shifts to the exterior of the house. Amidst the array of tasks, one often underestimated chore is the maintenance of vinyl siding. While renowned for its longevity and low upkeep, vinyl siding requires periodic cleaning to maintain its appearance. However, the method of cleaning, particularly with pressure washers, demands meticulous care.

Avoid spraying water under the lap siding seams

Beneath each row of vinyl siding lies a crucial element: weep holes. These small openings serve as drainage points, allowing any moisture that seeps behind the siding to escape, thus preventing mold and rot. However, the forceful spray of a pressure washer can inadvertently drive water into these weep holes, leading to potential issues down the line. Moreover, the overlapping design of vinyl siding creates seams where water can easily infiltrate if not handled with caution.

In your spring cleaning endeavors, it’s imperative to recognize and respect these features. Take the time to inspect the layout of your siding, noting the locations of weep holes and the direction of the lap.

When using a pressure washer, always aim downward and away from the seams, ensuring that water flows in the intended direction.

By exercising care and attention to detail, you’ll not only preserve the beauty of your home but also safeguard it against potential damage.

Keep Grills Away From Vinyl Siding

As outdoor gatherings become more frequent with the warming weather, it’s essential to be mindful of potential issues, particularly with vinyl siding. While barbecues and other heat sources add to the ambiance of outdoor entertaining, they can also pose a risk of damaging your siding. The intense heat generated by grills and fire pits can cause warping, melting, or discoloration of vinyl siding if placed too close. Therefore, it’s crucial to exercise caution when positioning heat sources near your home’s exterior and maintain a safe distance to preserve the integrity of your siding for seasons to come.


JJ Greive

JJ & Suzanne are both licensed, highly skilled inspectors and educators. We are the authors of our class curriculum, and truly enjoy sharing this with our students