If you’ve invested in James Hardie siding for your house, one of the reasons for your purchase was probably its durability. It is resistant to rot, pests, heat, moisture, and many other things that can destroy a home. But that doesn’t mean it is indestructible. Like any product, homeowners must give it some TLC. That way, it can perform its best and last you many years.
In addition, proper maintenance will preserve your James Hardie siding’s 30-year limited warranty. It is one of the best guarantees you can get in the industry, so don’t let it go to waste. Make sure you take care of it, or your warranty can get voided. Fortunately, caring for it is easy. Here are some expert tips to keep your siding in tip-top shape:
Regular Cleaning
Wash your siding once or twice a year with a garden hose. The low-pressure water will remove dirt, debris, and dust. Don’t use a high-pressure power washer because that can wreck your siding. The warranty doesn’t cover damages that occur while cleaning.
If the garden hose can’t remove stubborn dirt, go in with a soft brush or rag. You can also add some mild detergent. Rub gently from side to side in the same direction as the planks to loosen the grime, and wash it away with your garden hose. Never use rough tools because they can ruin your home’s beautiful exterior finish. Again, the warranty won’t cover it.
When cleaning your siding, start from the top and work your way down the house. All the gunk will run down while rinsing, so you’ll save a lot of time by going from top to bottom. In addition, you should never let the detergent settle and dry on your siding. You can prevent this by working in small sections. It also helps to have several brushes and rags nearby so you can swap them out when they get dirty.
We have a fantastic soft wash system that can take care of your Hardie Board – so give us a call!
Mold and Oil Stain Removal
Mold, mildew, and oil stains on your siding require more elbow grease than dirt and dust. If you spot mold and mildew, get your garden hose, a soft sponge, and a mildew cleaner designed for fiber cement siding. Apply the cleaning solution to the affected area and gently scrub with the sponge. Wash away the residue with the garden hose. Follow the instructions on the mildew cleaner’s label to avoid damaging your siding.
If oil and grease stains are your problem, you should be able to remove them with mild liquid dishwashing soap. Wet a soft cloth with soapy water and gently rub the affected areas on your siding. Wash away the soap suds with the garden hose. Remember to keep rinsing the dirty cloth as you work through your siding. Also, keep your siding wet throughout the process to prevent the dishwashing from drying on your siding.
It might be tempting to use harsh cleaners on your siding to remove unsightly spots. But that will do more harm than good. Stick to gentle products like dishwashing liquid and cleaners specifically for siding.
Minor Repairs
The paint on your James Hardie siding will look pristine for around 10 to 15 years. But you might have to repaint it once it reaches that age range. The James Hardie ColorPlus Technology Touch-Up Paint Kit can do wonders for minor scrapes, nicks, and nail holes.
You might also have to re-caulk your siding at some point. Inspect the trim connections, flashings, and penetrations so you know where to apply the caulk. It’s best to use a permanently flexible caulk for your James Hardie siding. Again, this is something we can help you with. Click here to learn more.
You can also perform minor repairs on your siding if you spot small chips, dents, and cracks. You can use a concrete patching compound to get rid of these imperfections. However, it’s better to replace the whole section if it has a dime-sized chip or larger.
General Exterior Maintenance
Aside from regular cleaning, you can keep your siding in great shape by maintaining the exterior of your home. You can install downspouts and gutters to keep moisture damage at bay. In addition, keep these fixtures free of twigs, leaves, and other debris so water can flow away from your home.
Your siding will also thank you for trimming the trees, bushes, and vegetation surrounding your house. Doing so prevents moisture buildup and the growth of mold and mildew. Another tip is to point your sprinklers away from your home’s exterior to keep your siding from getting soaked.
In the winter, it’s better to use gravel or sand instead of deicing salt to manage icy surfaces. Deicing salt can damage the siding you’ve worked so hard to maintain.
Let the Professionals Handle Roof and Siding Maintenance
Homeowners spend a lot on their roof and sidings, so it’s heartbreaking to see these structures with damages. If you want your James Hardie siding to last as long as possible and preserve your warranty, get professional help. Here at Blue Collar, we have the expertise and tools to keep your siding pristine. We will also maintain your home’s exterior and eliminate any organic matter that could cause premature deterioration.
