James Hardie siding is becoming an increasingly popular choice when homeowners decide to remodel their home’s exterior. Not only is it one of the leading siding materials on the market, but it’s also extremely durable and requires little maintenance.
It’s especially popular here in central Missouri, as it can withstand our hot and humid summers as well as our cold winters. Of course, over time, extreme weather can cause dirt and grime to build up on even the most durable siding material. But, if you take the time to clean your siding regularly, you can keep it looking great and help extend its lifespan.
Read through this guide on how to properly clean your James Hardie siding so your home will continue to look great for years to come.
The Importance of Proper Care
Preventative Maintenance
While James Hardie siding is a durable material, it’s not indestructible. Natural exposure to the elements means that over time, your siding will accumulate dirt and grime and could be susceptible to mold and mildew growth. Fortunately, unlike other materials, James Hardie siding is specifically engineered to withstand damage from moisture and rot, so you’ll only have to worry about surface-level cleaning.
And, of course, proper care can help prolong its lifespan even more. By occasionally cleaning your James Hardie siding each season, you clear off all of the built-up grime, leaving your siding look good as new.
Curb Appeal
The reality is that dirty siding can make your home look outdated, which hurts its value. When you give it a good cleaning, it can instantly make your home look new and more market-ready.
How Often Should You Clean James Hardie Siding?
How to Clean Your James Hardie Siding
Washing By Hand
Simply rinse down your siding with the hose mix together a cleaning solution using water and mild liquid dishwashing soap. Then, gently wash away dirt and grime with a soft cloth or a long-handled, soft medium bristle brush.
You’ll want to start at the bottom of the house and work up, being sure to completely rinse off the cleaning solution before it dries.
Removing Mold and Mildew
Fortunately, James Hardie siding is made to be resistant to mold and mildew, however, dirty siding can be a breeding ground for mildew growth, particularly during periods of high humidity. That’s why cleaning your siding once every year or two is crucial to help keep mold from developing.
Different Types of Siding Cleaners
DIY Cleaners
Soap-Based Cleaner
- Usually kills most types of bacteria and mold
- Does not give off dangerous fumes
- Non-toxic, natural, and safe to use
- Typically does not eliminate as much bacteria and mold compared to a chemical/bleach solution
Bleach-Based Cleaner
- Makes discolored surfaces white again
- Destroys almost all types of bacteria and mold
- Gives off toxic fumes, so it can only be used in a well-ventilated area
- Can be harsh on skin, lungs, and the environment
Store-Bought Cleaners
For algae marks and other stubborn stains, consider a store-bought cleaner instead. To ensure that you choose one that is safe for James Hardie siding, in particular, we recommend contacting your contractor for a trusted recommendation.
Have Any Other Questions?
As your local siding experts, we’re here to help! If you have additional questions about how to best clean your James Hardie siding, please feel free to reach out to us at any time.
Or, if you have been thinking about replacing your old siding or taking on another exterior home remodeling project, we can help with that too! We’d be happy to meet with you to assess your needs and offer our design solutions through a no-obligation consultation. Just call or text us at 636-757-3925 to get started.
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