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 the Omaha area, 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.

The Importance of Proper Care

Preventative Maintenance

While James Hardie siding is a durable material, it’s not completely indestructible. Exposure to the elements over time can cause your siding to accumulate dirt and grime and could be susceptible to mold and mildew. 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. This proper care of occasional cleaning helps clear off the built-up grime to help prolong the life of your James Hardie siding.

Curb Appeal

Home value and curb appeal are important to most homeowners. After all, HomeLight reports that “99% of Realtors believe curb appeal is important in attracting a buyer”, according to the National Association of Realtors’ 2018 Remodeling Impact Report. The reality is that dirty siding can make your home look outdated and less appealing. Once you clean your siding, you can instantly give your home a quick facelift. 

How Often Should You Clean James Hardie Siding?

Now that we’ve covered why it’s important to keep your siding clean, here’s the good news: you don’t have to clean it often! In fact, you should clean it no more than once a year. And, thanks to the climate here in Nebraska, we recommend only cleaning it once every two years. That’s all it takes to help prevent future damage and keep your home’s curb appeal at an all-time high. 

How to Clean Your James Hardie Siding

Now, let’s go over the cleaning process so you know exactly what you need to do to keep your siding in great shape.

Washing By Hand

Lots of people are tempted to use a pressure washer to clean their siding, but that could actually do more harm than good. Instead, a low-pressure hose is all you need to keep your James Hardie siding clean. Simply rinse down your siding with the hose and 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 to 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

If you’ve already started to notice mold or mildew growth on your siding, most times, you can clean it off, with a little effort. You can use either a DIY cleaning solution or a store-bought cleaner on small spots of mildew and mold, allowing it to sit before scrubbing it away.  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. 

Have Any Other Questions?

As your local siding experts, we’re here to help! If you have additional questions about your James Hardie siding please call us. If your siding is getting older and may be in need of replacement – call Thompson's Home Improvements for your siding project.