Having Portland siding on your home is an effective way to protect it from the elements, keep it looking new, and give it extra curbside appeal. But you’ll need to maintain it well if you want to make the most out of your siding and help it last longer.

The maintenance requirements for siding depend on the type of siding you have. Let’s explore the best ways to look after each type of siding, depending on the material you have.

Wood

Wood siding is extremely attractive, giving a natural feel to a home. It’s a popular choice of siding for homeowners for this reason. However, it is more at risk of damage by the elements or by general wear and tear andpests, so it needs a bit more care than other siding types.

Do Inspections

A Portland siding contractor will advise that it’s essential to check your siding around every six months to see any signs of damage. You should also check for wood rot or termites.

Repaint

It is important to restain and repaint every five or so years to ensure it is well protected. You can also use a clear sealant, which you should reapply around the two-year mark.

Give it a Clean

Woods should also get a good annual clean. You can use a soft brush and lukewarm, soapy water to get rid of dust and dirt. For mildew, use a one-part bleach to four parts water solution.

Vinyl

Vinyl is a cost-effective and durable siding alternative. It’s perfect for homeowners on a budget, new homes, and properties for rent.

Inspect Often

Vinyl is highly resistant to rot and termites, but it can bend out of shape and become cracked. Sometimes moisture also builds up behind it. This happens if the material has become damaged or loose or wasn’t placed properly to begin with. So, it is important to have your Portland siding company check it regularly.

Wash

This material also needs a wash every year. After that, you can just give it a good rinse with the garden hose.

Minimize Damage and Repaint

Vinyl can be easily damaged by using tools like lawnmowers nearby, or it can melt in the heat of barbecues. So it’s best to keep these kinds of things away from vinyl.

Vinyl colors may also become less vibrant in time, so they may need to be painted. Use excellent quality exterior paint to do so. Also, use light colors, as darker ones absorb the sun’s heat and lead to warping.

Fiber Cement Siding

A Portland siding company will tell you this alternative is made with sand, cement, and cellulose fibers. It can be made to look like stone, wood, or brickwork. The material looks good, lasts well, and is straightforward to maintain.

Do Inspections

The fiber cement must be checked once a year for signs of weather damage. It usually does not get affected by extreme temperatures or termites. Look for cracks, paint peel, mildew, and warping.

Clean and Paint

You can power wash or rinse this siding with soapy water every year or three. You may also need to paint it by 10 to 20 years old.

Steel Siding

This alternative is very durable, as your siding contractor in Portland, OR, will tell you. It comes in a pleasing variety of styles, colors, and textures as well.

Check for Scratches and Rust

Steel resists weather damage well, but it can develop scratches and rust, making it look old. So the siding should get a power wash every year. You can also give it a lick of paint, though most homeowners don’t do so.

Conclusion

As you can see, siding maintenance is straightforward if you know what to do. You can do most of the routine work yourself. However, if you find that you need siding repair in Portland, it’s best to call a professional.

Be sure to contact your local Portland siding company for any further advice.