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Easy Maintenance for Lasting Beauty

When it comes to enhancing a home's curb appeal, vinyl siding and other polymeric cladding options offer the perfect balance of style and practicality. Designed to withstand the elements, these durable materials provide long-lasting beauty without the constant upkeep.

Character and Charm Without the Hassle

Today’s vinyl siding offers all the appeal of wood siding without the maintenance worries, rotting, splitting, or insect damage. Unlike other exterior cladding, vinyl siding only requires periodic cleaning with mild soap and water from a garden hose.

Maintenance Comparison

See how low-maintenance vinyl siding stacks up to other cladding options.

Vinyl Siding

Only needs mild soap and water from a garden hose for periodic cleaning

Brick

Requires re-pointing of mortar and pressure washer for cleaning

Fiber Cement Siding / Engineered Wood / Stucco

Requires periodic painting and caulking

Wood Siding

Requires frequent painting or staining, as well as caulking

How to Clean and Maintain Your Vinyl Siding

Polymeric and vinyl siding offer the classic charm of traditional materials without the demanding upkeep. This means you save time and money while enjoying a home exterior that always looks its best. Unlike other cladding, polymeric siding only requires periodic cleaning to maintain its fresh appearance.

Keep your siding looking great for years to come with these tips.

For routine cleaning, a simple rinse with a garden hose is often enough. If you need a deeper clean, follow these steps:

  • Use the Right Tools: A soft cloth or a long-handled brush with soft bristles is ideal. For textured surfaces, a soft bristle brush helps clean the grooves effectively.
  • Work from the Bottom Up: Start at the bottom of the house and work your way up to prevent streaking.
  • Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the cleaning solution completely before it has a chance to dry on the surface.
  • Protect Other Surfaces: If your home has brick or stone accents, cover them to protect them from runoff.

Yes, a power washer can be used, but with caution. Always read the manufacturer's instructions for both the siding and the power washer before you begin.

  • Keep it Level: Hold the power washer straight at eye level. Do not aim the stream upward, as this can force water behind the siding panels.
  • Check for Restrictions: Some siding manufacturers do not recommend power washing, while others have limits on the pressure (PSI) and cleaners that can be used.
  • Avoid Openings: Be cautious around windows, doors, electrical wiring, and plumbing. Many manufacturers caution against pressure washing these areas.
For most small spots, a simple household cleaner will do the trick. Products like Simple Green®, Nice & Easy®, or Armor All® are great for dirt, bird droppings, and spider webs. Always test any cleaner on a hidden spot first, and rinse the area thoroughly with water after cleaning.
  • For Mold and Mildew: For small spots, use a commercial cleaner like Fantastik® or Windex®. For larger areas, a solution of 30% vinegar and 70% water is effective.
  • Tougher Stains: You may need a specific type of cleaner for tougher stains. Fantastik®, Lestoil®, Murphy Oil Soap®, and Soft Scrub® are often effective.

Stain-Specific Cleaners

Bubble Gum Fantastik®, Murphy Oil Soap®, solution of vinegar (30%), water (70%) and Windex®
Crayon Lestoil®
DAP (oil-based caulk) Fantastik®
Felt-tip Pen Fantastik®, water-based cleaners
Lithium (car) Grease Fantastik®, Lestoil®, Murphy Oil Soap®,Windex®
Motor Oil Fantastik®, Lysol®, Murphy Oil Soap®, Windex®
Paint Brillo® Pad, Soft Scrub®
Pencil Soft Scrub®
Rust Fantastik®, Murphy Oil Soap®, Windex®
Tar Soft Scrub®
Top Soil Fantastik®, Lestoil®, Murphy Oil Soap®
PEPA does not endorse products or processes and makes no warranties for the products referenced herein. Reference to proprietary names is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to imply that there are not equally effective alternatives.

What to Avoid

  • When cleaning your siding, avoid using the following products as they can damage the surface:
  • Cleaners with organic solvents
  • Undiluted chlorine bleach
  • Liquid grease remover
  • Nail polish remover
  • Furniture polish

Tips for Long-Term Siding Maintenance

A little prevention goes a long way in protecting your investment.

  • Protect from Stains

    When staining a deck, sealing a driveway, or working with wet concrete, cover your siding to avoid accidental discoloration. Insecticides and herbicides can also cause stains, so always read product labels carefully before use.

  • Avoid Direct Heat

    Polymeric siding is made from organic materials and can melt or warp when exposed to significant heat, so keep heat sources like barbecue grills at a safe distance. Also, be aware of reflections from energy-efficient windows, which can concentrate sunlight and create intense heat. Planting shrubs or installing window screens can help minimize this effect.

  • Think Twice Before Painting

    Always check with your siding manufacturer before you consider painting it. Painting your siding is often unnecessary because its color is designed to be long-lasting, and doing so could void the product warranty.

Finding the Right Vinyl Siding: Look for Certification

Vinyl siding comes in many shapes, colors, and textures. While PEPA doesn't recommend specific brands, our  Product Certification Program ensures quality through third-party inspection. Certified siding features a special logo on its packaging, independently verified to meet or exceed industry standards.

Find Certified Brands