How to Clean House Siding

Ali Gabre

March 10, 2025
6:42 am

How to Clean House Siding and Make It Look Brand New

Keeping your siding clean isn’t just about looks—it’s about protecting your investment. According to the National Association of Realtors, a well-maintained exterior can increase a home’s value by up to 10%. Additionally, research from the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) suggests that siding that isn’t properly maintained can deteriorate up to 50% faster than well-kept siding.

Without regular cleaning, your siding can suffer from:

Mold and Mildew Growth: Especially in humid or shaded areas, mold and mildew can cause staining and even damage certain siding materials over time.
Dirt and Pollution Buildup: Urban areas or homes near busy roads accumulate dirt and grime more quickly.
Pest Issues: Dirty siding can attract bugs, birds, and even rodents looking for shelter.
Permanent Stains: If left untreated, dirt and algae can create stains that are difficult—or impossible—to remove.

Now that we understand why cleaning siding is so important, let’s get into how to clean house siding properly.

Step 1: Identify Your Siding Type

Different siding materials require different cleaning techniques. Using the wrong method can cause permanent damage, so it’s important to know what you’re working with.

Common Siding Types & Cleaning Needs

Vinyl Siding – Durable and low-maintenance, but prone to mildew and algae growth. Needs gentle scrubbing with mild detergents.

Wood Siding – Beautiful, but high maintenance. It can rot if water seeps into the cracks, so it requires extra care and drying time.

Brick and Stucco – Porous materials that can trap dirt and stains. Need a soft-bristled brush and specialized cleaner to avoid surface damage.

Fiber Cement Siding (e.g., Hardie Board) – Durable but still requires periodic washing to prevent chalky buildup from oxidation.

Once you know your siding type, you can choose the right tools and cleaners.

Step 2: Gather the Right Cleaning Supplies

Before diving into the cleaning process, gather these essential tools:

Soft-bristle brush or microfiber cloth (for gentle scrubbing)
Garden hose with a spray nozzle (for rinsing)
Bucket (to mix cleaning solutions)
Protective gear (gloves and safety glasses)
Ladder (for reaching high areas safely)

Best Cleaning Solutions for Different Siding Types

DIY Vinegar Solution: Mix 30% white vinegar with 70% water for an eco-friendly cleaner that removes dirt and mildew.

Dish Soap & Warm Water: Ideal for light dirt and grime. Use one tablespoon of dish soap per gallon of water.

Oxygen Bleach Solution: A great alternative to chlorine bleach for removing algae and mildew stains without damaging plants.

AVOID THESE CLEANERS:

Pressure Washer on Full Blast – Can damage siding and force water behind panels, leading to mold and rot.
Abrasive Cleaners (like Comet or Ajax) – Can scratch surfaces and cause discoloration.
Chlorine Bleach on Wood or Colored Vinyl – Can strip paint and cause fading.

Step 3: The Best Way to Clean House Siding

Once you have the right tools and cleaners, follow these steps for a streak-free finish:

1. Prep the Area

Move patio furniture, plants, and decorations away from the house.
Cover delicate plants with plastic sheets to prevent chemical exposure.
Close all windows and doors to keep water out.

2. Start from the Bottom Up

Many homeowners make the mistake of spraying from the top down, which causes streaking. Instead, work from the bottom up and rinse from the top down for the best results.

3. Scrub Gently

Don’t use excessive force! Scrubbing too hard on vinyl, wood, or fiber cement can cause scratches or loosen panels.

4. Rinse Quickly

If using a cleaning solution, rinse off immediately with a garden hose to prevent residue buildup.

5. Dry & Inspect

Let the siding dry naturally, then inspect it for any remaining stains or trouble spots that need extra attention.

Step 4: Little-Known Expert Tips

Most cleaning guides stop at basic washing, but these pro-level tips can help take your siding maintenance to the next level:

Use a Leaf Blower to Remove Loose Debris – A quick pre-cleaning trick that gets rid of cobwebs, dust, and dry leaves before scrubbing.

Try a Magic Eraser for Stubborn Stains – It’s Great for spot-cleaning tough stains without harsh chemicals.

Check for Gaps and Cracks – Cleaning is the best time to inspect for small gaps where water could seep in, preventing potential water damage.

Avoid Midday Sun – Washing siding in direct sunlight causes streaks because the cleaning solution dries too fast. Instead, clean in the early morning or late afternoon.

Step 5: When to Call the Pros

While DIY siding cleaning works for regular maintenance, some situations require a professional touch. If you notice:

Deep Mold or Algae Growth that keeps returning
Hard-to-reach areas (like 2nd or 3rd-story siding)
Oxidation (chalky buildup) on fiber cement or metal siding
Signs of pest infestation (mud dauber nests, wasp hives, etc.)

It’s time to call ProClean, Abbotsford’s trusted house washing experts.

How ProClean Can Help

At ProClean, we specialize in professional siding cleaning using eco-friendly products and advanced techniques that keep your home looking fresh while protecting the environment.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning Solutions – Safe for kids, pets, and plants
Soft Washing Technology – Deep cleans without damaging surfaces
Expert Technicians – Trained professionals who know exactly how to clean your siding safely
Preventative Maintenance – We spot potential issues before they become costly repairs

We serve Abbotsford and surrounding areas, helping homeowners preserve their property value with expert siding maintenance.

Conclusion

Keeping your house siding clean isn’t just about looks—it’s about longevity and home protection. By following the right techniques and using professional help when needed, you can extend the life of your siding and keep your home in top condition.

Tired of scrubbing your siding with little success? Let ProClean, the best cleaning company Abbotsford, handle it for you! Our expert team in Abbotsford delivers top-quality siding cleaning that restores your home’s beauty without the hassle. Contact us today for a free consultation and see the difference a professional touch can make. Your home deserves the best—book your siding cleaning with ProClean now!