Siding Care 101: Your Guide to a Lasting Exterior for MN & WI Homes

Siding Maintenance 101: Your Handbook for a Durable Exterior for Homes in Minnesota and Wisconsin

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The siding on your house is its first line of protection from the harsh weather. That siding suffers greatly in Minnesota and Wisconsin, where the climate can fluctuate from intense cold and snow to muggy heat and strong storms. Even though contemporary materials are made to last, they are not unbeatable. The secret to safeguarding your investment, maintaining your curb appeal, and avoiding future expensive repairs is routine care and maintenance.

Everything you need to know about siding maintenance in the Midwest will be covered in this guide, from a basic yearly cleaning to a proactive inspection schedule that can save you a ton of money and hassle. You can guarantee that your home's exterior will continue to be a stunning, protective barrier for many years to come by following these simple steps.

The Annual Cleaning: The Spring Reset of Your Siding

The spring is the ideal season to thoroughly clean your siding after a long, filthy winter. The good news is that this is an easy, low-effort task that can be finished in an afternoon for the majority of contemporary siding materials.

Why it's important: The combination of dirt, road salt, and other debris left over from winter weather can fade the color of your siding. Particularly on the north-facing side of your house, the high humidity of a Midwest summer can promote the growth of mold, mildew, and algae. These offenders are eliminated by a thorough cleaning, which also keeps your house looking bright and new for longer.

How to accomplish it:

Assemble your materials: A garden hose with a spray nozzle, a soft-bristle brush, and a basic cleaning solution are required. A solution of warm water and a tiny bit of mild dish soap is ideal for the majority of siding types. A mixture of one-third cup laundry detergent, two-thirds of a cup household cleaner (such as Spic and Span), and a gallon of water can be very effective for stubborn areas.
Begin at the bottom: To prevent streaks, start rinsing your siding from the bottom up. Divide your work into manageable chunks.
Scrub and rinse: Use the soft brush to apply your cleaning solution and scrub gently in a circular motion. Rinse the area well from top to bottom after the dirt has been removed.
Think about a pressure washer: Although a garden hose is typically adequate, a pressure washer can simplify the task, particularly in larger homes. The proper nozzle and a low pressure setting (no more than 1,500 psi) are essential, though. High pressure can cause vinyl siding to warp and push water behind the siding, harming the sheathing and house wrap. See this article for a thorough guide on siding maintenance from a reliable expert.

The Power of a Proactive Inspection

One of the most crucial things you can do to safeguard your house is to do a visual inspection. Knowing what to look for is crucial, but you don't need to be an expert to identify possible issues. At least once or twice a year, especially after a significant storm, take a stroll around your house.

Things to check for when you're inspecting:

Cracks or Gaps: Examine the siding panels for any cracks, dents, or holes. These may serve as points of entry for pests, insects, and moisture. Keep an eye out for places where siding meets another material, such as around windows, doors, and utility lines.
Warping or Buckling: Some siding materials that have been subjected to significant temperature changes frequently experience warping or buckling. Panels that are not lying flat are an indication that the material is deteriorating or that there is a moisture issue underneath.
Faded or Chalky Color: The color of your siding may gradually deteriorate, particularly in regions that receive a lot of sunlight. Even though this is frequently a cosmetic problem, it may indicate that the material's protective qualities are eroding.
Loose Panels: Look for any panels that are flapping or loose. Panels may become dislodged by strong winds or storms, exposing your house to moisture damage.
Rot, Mold, or Mildew: Keep an eye out for any indications of rot, mold, or mildew, especially on wood or engineered wood siding.

Early detection of these problems may mean the difference between a complete replacement and a straightforward, low-cost repair.

Above and Beyond: Expert Treatment & Improvements

Occasionally, a cursory cleaning and inspection are insufficient. It's time to call a professional if you've noticed a serious problem. In addition to fixing the issue, a skilled contractor can provide solutions that keep it from happening again.

Considerations for Proactive Upgrades:

Re-sealing Joints: The caulk and sealant surrounding doors and windows may deteriorate over time, leaving tiny gaps. A tight, water-resistant barrier is ensured by having these areas professionally re-sealed.
Upgrading to Insulated Siding: You can significantly increase the energy efficiency of your house by replacing your outdated siding with contemporary, insulated vinyl or fiber cement. This is an improvement that frequently pays for itself in savings in a state like Minnesota, where energy expenses can be high.
Resolving Moisture Issues: If your home has a persistent mold or moisture problem, a professional can determine the underlying cause—whether it's a gutter issue, house wrap issue, or another issue with the exterior of your home—and make a permanent fix.

Conclusion: A Small Investment Yields a Large Return

Maintaining your siding is a proactive, easy way to safeguard your most valuable investment. You can avoid the stress and cost of major repairs by investing a small amount of time each year in cleaning and inspection. Maintaining your home's exterior will guarantee that it looks its best and continues to be a lovely, safe, and comfortable place for many years to come.

Are You Ready for a Siding Upgrade or Inspection? Get in touch with Midwest Exteriors MN!

Specializing in roofing, siding, windows, and gutters, we are among the top-ranked exterior contractors in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Our staff is committed to offering top-notch service and premium materials to make sure your house is stunning, long-lasting, and prepared for anything Mother Nature may throw at it.

Midwest Exteriors MN

Phone: 651-346-9477

‍Email: office@MidwestExteriorsMN.com or office@MWEXT.com

‍Website: www.midwestexteriorsmn.com

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