If you’ve invested in this pioneering fiber cement siding, after admiring its rich color for a while you may have found yourself asking ‘how to clean James Hardie siding?’. You’ll be pleased to know it’s easy. With this fiber cement siding you get a product that will protect your home from the elements for years to come, and it’s simple to maintain. The key is to be gentle with it, avoiding harsh chemicals, pressure washers, or metal brushes so you don’t damage the siding and its finish.

If you’re cleaning general dirt and dust, all you need for your James Hardie siding care is a garden hose and a soft brush. Simply brush the dirt to loosen it, then rinse it away with the hose. If it needs a bit more elbow grease, you can wet a soft cloth, wipe off the dirt in the direction of the shingle or panel to avoid streaks, and rinse clean. Always work from top to bottom so you don’t undo your hard work. The bottom will have been rinsed a few times by the time you get to it, so it’s sure to just need a light rub, which is a bonus. For homeowners in Wisconsin needing assistance with siding in the city, skilled siding contractors in Milwaukee can offer guidance to keep your home in top condition.

If you need to remove something a little more stubborn like grease or oil, you’ll need a mild dish soap, a soft cloth, and a garden hose. Wet the cloth with soapy water and rub the siding gently, again following the direction of the panel or shingle. Rinse your cloth frequently to avoid spreading what you’re trying to clean off. Finally, rinse the siding with the hose. To avoid damaging the finish of your siding, don’t let soap dry on it; make sure it’s rinsed thoroughly.

If any mold or mildew has developed on your siding, follow the same steps with a specialized mildew cleaner, again rinsing well afterward so it doesn’t dry on the siding. Always follow the instructions on the cleaner and use protective equipment for strong chemicals. For dependable additional support, consider the benefits of hiring local roofing contractors , as local roofers can help maintain both your siding and roofing to keep your home in top condition.

How Often to Clean Your Siding

We’re all used to cleaning inside our homes and know how often we need to dust, vacuum, or clean the kitchen. However, we don’t often think about the outside of our house, even though it’s exposed to the elements and therefore likely collects more dust and debris than the inside. Fiber cement siding is hardy and can cope with rain, wind, hail, and other climate challenges. It doesn’t need to be cleaned as often as the inside of your house, but giving it a once-over every twelve months will keep it looking its best. Regular cleaning also prevents dirt from building up and becoming a bigger job to remove. If you live in an area prone to storms or extreme weather, cleaning your siding every six months might be a better schedule to maintain its appearance.

Keeping the exterior of your home clean and well-maintained not only enhances its appearance but also extends its lifespan. For residents in Greendale or nearby cities and villages needing reliable support, a trusted Greendale roofer can assist with exterior care, including addressing storm-related damage. Additionally, if you're considering upgrades, expert roofing installation in Oak Creek ensures your home stays protected and looks its best for years to come.

Help Your Siding Last by Looking After it

James Hardie siding maintenance is straightforward, but it’s essential to get the life you expect from this top-quality product. It’s durable, and the color is UV and fade-resistant, meaning that with proper care, it could protect your home for up to 50 years. In addition to regular cleaning, you should inspect the siding once or twice a year and after significant storms. While this siding is tough, it’s still exposed to harsh weather conditions, so look for small dents or cracks. Finding and repairing these early prevents them from spreading and causing more severe damage. Also, check the caulk sealing around the edges of the siding. If any areas are thin or have come away, replace them immediately to prevent water from seeping in and damaging the siding from within. 

For assistance with maintaining your siding or exploring durable options like James Hardie, connect with Four Leaf Roofing & Windows to ensure your home remains protected and visually appealing well into the future.

We pride ourselves on offering top-quality products, including James Hardie siding. For more information or to book a free siding quote, see our siding page here.