Care and Maintenance - Georgia-Pacific Vinyl Siding

Georgia-Pacific Vinyl Siding > Support > Care and Maintenance

Cleaning Your Vinyl Siding

Georgia-Pacific® Vinyl Siding and Accessories products are some of the most durable building product materials available today for residential applications. In most cases, normal rainfall is sufficient to keep it clean. But, should your products need cleaning, we recommend the following procedures. Particular attention should be given to areas under eaves, porches, awnings and other overhangs that have limited exposure to the natural washing effect of rainfall.

Moderate Atmospheric Dirt – We recommend an occasional washing with clear water using a garden hose and soft-bristled brush (a long-handled, car-washing brush is ideal for this purpose).

Heavy Industrial Atmospheric Dirt – Wash in the manner indicated above, but use the following solution:

a. 1/3 cup detergent

b. 2/3 cup trisodium phosphate

c. 1 gallon water

Mildew Accumulation – Mildew can collect on surfaces of all types of building products and is often evident on surfaces that have not been properly cared for and maintained. Normally, mildew will appear as black spots. Mildew is easy to remove by using the basic cleaning solution above with the addition of sodium hypochlorite as follows:

a. 1/3 cup detergent

b. 2/3 cup trisodium phosphate

c. 1 quart sodium hypochlorite 5% solution

d. 3 quarts water

Caulking Compounds, Tar and Similar Substances – Use mineral spirits in reasonable amounts and apply directly to the foreign substance. Immediately after cleaning, rinse the area thoroughly with water.

CAUTION: Do not exceed the recommended concentrations of cleaners. To do so can cause damage to the products’ surface. Avoid skin and eye contact with the solution, and in all cases follow manufacturer’s instructions for use of cleaning compounds and solutions. Avoid uses of abrasive-type cleaners and strong solvents. Test any cleaner on an inconspicuous area before applying to major areas. To minimize streaking, always clean from the bottom to the top and follow with a rinsing of clear water. Excessive scrubbing is unnecessary and can be harmful to the products, and may cause undesirable glossy areas over the finish.

Repairs

The top-quality of Georgia-Pacific® Vinyl Siding and Accessories siding panels set the standard for beauty and long-lasting durability. And when you add the perfect finishing touches with elegant designer accents, your home will have a vibrant new look and personality.

Power Washing Your Siding

If you decide to power wash your vinyl siding, please be sure to read your power washer instructions carefully before you begin. When cleaning, hold the power washer straight at eye level. Don’t aim the washer upward as the water may collect behind the siding. This collected water could leak, which can produce streaks, or could stay behind the siding, which can cause decay. Set the pressure using a minimum of 1,500 PSI and maximum of 2,400, using a 40-degree tip.