Pressure Washing Vinyl Siding

The days of scrubbing a home's siding with a manual brush and a bucket of water are largely over, as pressure washers have become a staple for home maintenance. 

While using a pressure washer to clean vinyl siding may seem straightforward, following specific steps ensures the job is less exhausting, safer, and completed in half the time. 

Using a Pressure Washer to Clean Vinyl Siding 

The power of a pressure washer should not be intimidating. These machines are easy to operate and are safe for cleaning siding when used correctly. The key is to use lower water pressure to prevent water from getting behind the siding or damaging the surface. 

Pro-Tip: The secret is to start on a low-pressure setting and adjust slightly as needed. Appropriate soaps or detergents should always be used. Corrosive cleaning solutions containing undiluted bleach or non-traditional cleaners like furniture polish or degreasers should be avoided, as they can damage the siding. 

For one-story homes, almost any pressure washer is sufficient at low pressure. For two-story homes, a gas-powered pressure washer may be considered to reach high, difficult spots. Alternatively, an extension wand or telescoping wand with a support belt can extend reach from the ground, allowing for close-range spraying of stains. 

Use Pressure Washer Detergent 

Soap and water provide a superior cleaning combination compared to water alone, and specialized pressure washer detergent is even more effective. Most pressure washers include an injector to mix cleaning solutions directly into the jet stream. Only solvents labeled "approved for pressure washer use" should be used to protect the environment and the internal components of the machine. 

Apply the Detergent Solution 

The soap mixture should be applied under low pressure using smooth, overlapping strokes. To prevent streaking, the application should start from the bottom and move upward. Pressure washing requires a methodical approach; random spraying often leads to missed spots. For multi-story houses, a high-pressure soap kit can be used to spray detergent up to 25 feet. 

Use a Brush for Tough Spots 

If a home has not been cleaned recently, a rotating or utility brush can help loosen thick layers of dirt. The brush snaps onto the end of the pressure washer wand and acts as a foaming brush, emitting a soapy solution during use. 

Allow the Solution to Dwell 

The solution should be allowed to work for 5–10 minutes to break down mildew, grime, and stains. If washing in direct sunlight, the siding should be monitored to ensure the solution does not dry, as this diminishes its effectiveness. 

Start From a Distance 

Because pressure washers are designed to be powerful, it is important to start at a distance using a low-pressure spray. Starting too close or with too much pressure can damage siding or force water into the walls, potentially leading to mold growth. The wand should be held at least five feet from the surface, gradually moving closer only if additional power is required. 

Spray the Siding Clean 

Care should be taken to avoid spraying directly at eaves, vents, or light fixtures. High pressure can also displace or break loose windowpanes. Additionally, the wand should be pointed downward to avoid spraying up under the laps of horizontal siding, which prevents the vinyl from buckling. When rinsing, the process should start at the top and work down to ensure the area is entirely soap-free. 

Pressure washers are highly efficient tools that allow homeowners to finish tasks quickly. They are versatile enough for stripping paint, cleaning decks, scrubbing sidewalks, or washing vehicles, making them an essential tool for summer home maintenance.