Can You Power Wash Aluminum Siding?
When it seems time to power wash the aluminum siding, your head might overflow with questions. There may be so much mildew and discoloration you might even wonder, “Can you paint aluminum siding” or “Is it cheaper to paint or replace aluminum siding?”
You should know a few things before deciding how to get your aluminum siding looking great again.
This article will help answer some questions about aluminum siding and how best to maintain it.
Everything You Need to Know About Cleaning Your Aluminum Siding
Aluminum siding is one of the most popular types on the market today. It’s often used because it’s affordable and easy to install, but it can also be hard to clean!
Cleaning your aluminum siding is essential because it will protect the metal from corrosion, which can cause damage to the material. There are several methods for cleaning aluminum siding, but the best option depends on what type of dirt or debris you’re dealing with. Most of the time, there is mildew or mould on your siding.
But usually, the main thing people notice is oxidation. This happens when older paint starts to break down.
- Many houses with aluminum siding were built in the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s. And many people opt for this material today.
- This type of siding is lightweight and recyclable. It is excellent for extreme weather conditions and can be painted in exciting colours.
- There are also different kinds of coating that can be baked onto the surface, making it look like other materials.
How to Clean Aluminum Siding Before Painting
Painting aluminum siding is a great way to restore the look of your aluminum siding. It will also help to protect it from future damage and weathering. But before you ask how to paint aluminum siding, you must ensure it is completely clean and free of dirt, grease, and other debris.
When the paint on aluminum siding starts to oxidize, the surface becomes chalky. If you rub your hand on it, it will look like a white powder has come off your skin. This reaction makes the brightness of the paint colour duller or less vibrant.
So, is power washing recommended for this project? Can you use a pressure washer on metal siding?
Absolutely.
Here’s how:
- For cleaning, you can use something like oxalic acid or trisodium phosphate (TSP). These can be found at your local hardware store or home store.
- If you are using a cleaner, you can attach it to a hose, a pump sprayer or a pressure washer and make sure to apply it evenly to prevent streaking.
- When using a pressure washer choosing a wider tip with 3000 PSI (pounds per square inch) will be able to blast through the dirt and grime. But when you first turn it on, start at a lower setting and work your way up, so you get used to holding the handle.
- Staying about ten feet back, overlapping your back and forth arm movements and pointing downward on your aluminum siding as opposed to upward, will have the most even and efficient results.
- Spraying upward can cause water to get behind the panels, and the pressure can even cause some panels to bend or tilt farther from the side of the house, decreasing protection.
Power Washing Aluminum Siding: Tips from the Experts
- Remember that pressure washing aluminum siding takes time and patience. If you are going to paint over the aluminum siding, the evenness of the cleaning is not as relevant, but if you intend on just power washing, then you want it to look as consistent as possible.
- Pressure washing your entire home may take four to six hours. This can be a tiring process, mainly depending on the weather conditions. And if you have an older property, it may take two times to get the job done to your liking.
- For most houses, pressure washing once or twice a year is recommended. An added benefit to power washing this regularly is you will notice all the little repairs that need your attention.
- It might be panels that need replacing or repair. Maybe it’s some shingles on your roof.
- Power washing is a great way to make your yearly assessments. The buildup of mould, mildew, cobwebs, bird droppings, bird nests and even moss in some climates can inspire you to stay on top of such a big project. And if you live in a city, the dirt and grime can build up more quickly. It will keep your home with great curb appeal.
- Please remember that using a power washer can cause physical harm if not used responsibly. Follow all directions and recommendations to wear protective gear to prevent injuries and lacerations.
How to Clean Aluminum Siding Without a Pressure Washer
If power washing your aluminum siding is not right for you then you can try these tips.
- Give aluminum siding a simple rinse with a garden hose
- Mix TSP with water or whatever all-purpose cleaner you prefer from your local hardware store in a bucket.
- Using a soft bristle scrub, car wash brush or power scrubber, apply your cleaning fluid, overlapping as you go for evenness
- This will separate the dirt and grim from the aluminum siding. The dirty water will run off the house, looking almost white from the chalky residue. Continue over all exposed surfaces and rinse with the garden hose once more.
- Try going over aluminum siding with a water and bleach solution for an excellent finish.
So there you have it. Can you power wash the aluminum siding?
Yes, you can! And if you follow these steps, it will look as good as new. But if you don’t have the time and energy to do the job yourself, hire a professional! Search Google for something like “aluminum siding cleaning near me.”
Or you can try us —we offer aluminum siding cleaning, repair, and replacement services. We’ll happily send out one of our professional cleaning technicians to power wash your aluminum siding and make it look great again.
At Home Painters Toronto we can help your dreams come true!
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