How Do You Clean Exterior Wood Siding?

Thanks to the quality of the factory-finished process, prefinished LP^® SmartSide^® ExpertFinish^® engineered wood siding options have a uniform finish that is longer-lasting, creating less maintenance for the homeowner in the long term.

As one of the most durable siding solutions available, LP SmartSide siding is an easier maintenance material, but it still needs cleaning from time to time. It’s important to learn how to clean mold, mildew and algae off siding, among other basic maintenance methods. Follow these simple steps to keep your siding clean and looking beautiful. 

Basic Siding Wash & Maintenance

• Clean siding For best results, LP SmartSide siding should be cleaned annually to remove dirt and grime and prevent damage from algae, mildew and mold.
• Choose the right siding cleaner. To wash siding, use a solution of water and mild detergent. Wash the surface of the siding with a soft brush, sponge or cloth, and rinse off remaining residue with a garden hose. Avoid household cleaners that contain abrasive materials that could damage the paint finish.
• Do not pressure wash siding. Avoid using a pressure washer to clean LP SmartSide siding. Pressure washing can force water behind the siding panel and cause damage to the finish.
• Call for repairs. If needed, hire a professional siding contractor to make repairs to LP SmartSide siding. Our LP BuildSmart^™ preferred contractors have been trained in the way to properly install these advanced products.

How to Clean Mildew, Mold and Algae Off of Exterior Wood Siding 

Learning how to clean wood siding, including engineered wood, is critical to maintaining the beautiful look you love for your home. Mildew on siding, for example, can detract from your home’s curb appeal—yet it is easily preventable and can be easily cleaned. Check out the following sections to find out how to clean exterior wood siding.

• How to Clean Mold Off Siding
  • If not cleaned periodically, the paint finish might become susceptible to mold. A solution of 75% water to 25% white vinegar can be used to remove light mold stains. After cleaning, rinse the siding thoroughly.
• How to Remove Algae From Wood Siding
  • To remove algae from house siding, first ensure that there are no ongoing sources of moisture that are hitting your siding. Be sure to check for algae in areas of the home that don't get much sun, which can keep your siding from drying completely after heavy rainfall or periods of humidity. If you do find algae, gently wash with a sponge and rinse with water. Do not pressure wash.
• How to Clean Mildew Off Wood Siding
  • Mildew on siding can occur when siding is consistently exposed to moisture. Similar to the process for cleaning mold off siding, cleaning mildew off siding is simple. Use a solution of 75% water to 25% white vinegar and apply with a sponge to the areas with mildew. Rinse clean with a low-pressure garden hose.

LP SmartSide Siding: Engineered Toughness

LP SmartSide products are so durable because they’re treated with our proprietary SmartGuard^® process. Exterior trim and siding materials are often subjected to extreme temperatures, moisture and insects. Only the SmartGuard process offers four components of protection against termites and fungal decay: an advanced formula of binders, waxes and zinc borate bonded with a water-resistant, resin-saturated overlay. The result is an advanced material that offers longer-term toughness in the face of harsh weather.

If you are not familiar with engineered wood products, learn more about engineered wood siding options manufactured by LP; they constitute some of the most durable siding options on the market.

See products in person at a retailer or dealer near you, and learn more about how to remove mildew from siding and other maintenance procedures at LPCorp.com/SmartSide.