How to wash aluminum or vinyl siding.

Over time, vinyl and aluminum siding develops mildew, oxidation or other soiling, which detracts considerably from the original crispness and freshness of new siding. Aluminum siding becomes "dull"; vinyl siding shows mildew spots...both get soiled from the elements. You can restore some of the original beauty without actually breaking your back! And, depending on the size and style of your house, you might even be able to do it without climbing a ladder (ranch style houses, anyway).

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Trisodium phosphate (TSP-available at home-centers).
• Telescoping scrub-brush (also available at home-centers).
• Bucket (large enough for brush head)
• Hose(s), spray nozzles
• Work gloves and/or rubber gloves
• Ladder (possibly)
• Drinking water, other comfort items.

1. Mix the cleaning solution:
   
   Read and follow manufacturer's label instructions for working with and mixing the TSP powder with water (for cleaning), in a bucket large enough to accept your brush-head.
2. Preparation:
   
   If your house is a ranch style, you might not need a ladder, depending on the lay of the land around the building.
   
   If it is not a ranch, you most likely will need a ladder.
   
   Be sure to practice safe ladder use.
3. From the ground and/or ladder, hose a section of the house down to rinse off surface dust, pollen, etc.
4. Once an area is wet, dip your brush head in the TSP/water solution and brush the siding, starting as high as you can reach with the telescoping brush.
   
   Start by working an area about 20 feet wide and work the entire height of the siding for that width if you can.
   
   As you learn the process, you may choose to increase your working area, but try to avoid too large an area, as the cleaning solution may dry before rinsing, which can create streaks or may require repeat brushing.
5. Working from top to bottom, thoroughly brush the area you are working on.
   
   Use both horizontal (side-to-side) and vertical (up-and-down) motions, to ensure thoroughness.
6. Once you've brushed thoroughly, rinse with clean water.
   
   Repeat this process for the entire house.

Tips & Warnings

• Pace yourself on this kind of project! It will require a fair amount of exertion, but if you can keep it at an even pace, you will work through it much more comfortably.
• Drink plenty of water, especially if weather is warm.
• Try to plan your work area in the shade as much as possible.
• Take a rest once in a while!
• Always read and follow label instructions for safe handling and working with chemical products.
• If in doubt about a product's 'exposure' safety, request an MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) from the supplier.
• Always practice safe ladder-use.