No. Sure, a pressure washer can help make the job go a bit more quickly, but if you don’t have access to one and don’t want to shell out the cash to purchase or rent one, there are a couple of simple solutions that use everyday items that you almost certainly have around your home.
Before you start work, however, we recommend that you make sure what the manufacturer’s guidelines are regarding cleaning products. Additionally, test the cleaning solution in an inconspicuous area, and wait a day or two to see if there are any adverse effects.
1. Bleach Solution.
If you notice a greenish tint to your siding, you’ll want to mix up a bleach-and-detergent solution that works great on mold and mildew. Here’s the recipe:
1/3 cup powdered laundry detergent
2/3 powdered household cleaner
1 quart liquid laundry bleach
1 gallon of water
Mix these components together in a garden sprayer. If you don’t have one, nearly any hardware or home-improvement store will have one for under $20.
If you have plants around the base of your home, you’ll want to cover them with drop cloths to keep the caustic bleach away from them. Also make sure that children and pets are kept away from the work area.
Then get to spraying. Every gallon of solution should cover around 250 square feet, and once you’ve sprayed, let it stand for five or ten minutes. Then rinse the siding off with your garden hose. If it’s been a long time since your last cleaning, you may have to apply a second or even third coat. The end result is a brilliant clean.
2. Vinegar
If you don’t like the idea of using bleach, a simple solution of vinegar and water will work, too. You’ll want to get a ladder, some scrub brushes and a bucket. Mix a 70/30 solution of water to vinegar and start scrubbing. Going against the grain will help you reach many more difficult-to-clean places, and it’s a good idea to have a small container of baking soda on hand to add grit to the mixture. Start from the top and work your way down.
Vinegar can be deadly to plants, too, so be sure to take care with your plants.
These two techniques are great ways for you to thoroughly clean your home’s siding without needing special equipment. And if you find that your siding is damaged or worn out, give us a call. We’d love to be of service. These use pressure washer should be done after reading its instructions manual.