Although vinyl siding is low maintenance, grime from wintery Minneapolis roads and other sources can still stain it. To keep it clean, try any of these proven methods.
Dish Soap
The easiest and most accessible solution to mix is hot water and simple dish soap. This will work in the same way as it does your dishes. The dirt and any grease breaks up and easily rinses off without risk of causing damage. It also leaves a very nice finish on the siding.
White Vinegar or Oxygen Bleach
Four tougher stains, consider using a mixture of water with either vinegar or oxygen bleach. These non-toxic cleaners are both time tested for lifting stains and cleaning debris off of all kinds of surfaces.
For the bleach, mix 5 parts water with one part bleach in a bucket. If you prefer vinegar, use only 4 parts water to one part vinegar. Use a soft cloth soaked in the solution to scrub the vinyl with until the stain fades away. Once you’re finished, don’t forget to rinse the siding well.
Commercial Remover
If the stain still doesn’t come out, look into using a commercial cleaner. Both Oxiclean and Mean Green are designed to get rid of tough stains, while staying gentle on the environment. These cleaners work on the stain as they sit up until you rinse them from the surface.
Power Washer
If you’re not comfortable using any of the above solutions, you can use a power washer instead. These machines work with highly pressurized water and do a great job of removing dirt, but they can damage siding if you’re not careful. To avoid this, keep the washer on a lower level as you work.
If you’ve exhausted your options, it may be time to think about replacing your siding. However, most stains and dirt will be taken care of when you try any of these solutions. For more vinyl siding cleaning tips, see our previous post.
Window Outfitters is a premier Window Replacement, doors, siding contractor and installer. As Contractor in the St Paul, Minneapolis, (Twin Cities) Minnesota (MN) metro, we proudly serve, but are not limited to, the following areas: Minneapolis Energy Efficient Vinyl Windows, Replacement Window Contractors Minnesota, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Lakeville, Savage, Bloomington, Edina, Richfield, Eagan, St Paul, Hastings, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Eden Prairie, Farmington MN, Chaska, Shakopee, Chanhassen, Victoria, Mendota Heights Anderson Windows Minneapolis, Marvin Windows Minneapolis.
