Vinyl siding is an incredibly popular choice among homeowners due to its durability, versatility, and low maintenance. However, while it is incredibly durable, it is not infallible and may suffer from accidental damage. While you may think you are doing everything in your power to avoid this damage, there are a few common ways this can occur that you might not realize.
At Unlimited Siding, our team understands how important it is for homeowners to protect their homes from any accidental damage. Understanding the common causes of damage to your vinyl siding can help you prevent costly repairs and ensure your home looks pristine. If you want to learn some ways you might inadvertently damage your vinyl siding and tips on how to avoid it, keep reading.
1. Lawn Care Mishaps
If you use lawn equipment like movers, trimmers, or edgers too close to your home, you may accidentally send flying debris like rocks and sticks into your siding. While you might not realize it, the speed at which this debris is thrown into your home may cause cracks, dents, scratches, and other accidental damage to your siding.
If you want to avoid this damage, you need to maintain a safe distance from your home’s exterior when using these tools. You may also want to consider using protective guards to minimize the risk of debris being thrown toward your siding. You may also want to consider installing a mulch or stone border between your lawn and your home, which can act as a buffer zone.
2. Pressure Washing
Pressure washing is a great way to clean the toughest debris off of a variety of surfaces. But, it may not be best for your siding if you want to avoid accidental damage. Using too much pressure can crack, chip, or even dislodge the vinyl panels. High-pressure water can also force water behind the siding, leading to potential mold and mildew growth in and around your home.
If you need to clean your home, it might be in your best interest to reach out to a trusted power washing company to perform this service. They can ensure they are using the appropriate water pressure to clean your siding without accidentally causing costly damage. Alternatively, if you want to clean your siding yourself, you can invest in a soft brush and mild detergent to treat stains and debris as they form.
3. Improper Decor Installation
While decorating your home is an important part of portraying your interests, doing so improperly can be harmful to your siding. Hanging decorations, bird feeders, or planters directly onto your siding can create holes or cracks. The weight of heavy objects can also warp or break the siding over time.
If you want to customize the exterior of your home, make sure to use hooks and hangers designed specifically for vinyl siding, which attach without causing accidental damage. You should also avoid hanging overly heavy items and regularly check on these items to ensure the integrity of their mounting.
4. Poorly Placed Heat Sources
If you enjoy spending a great deal of time outdoors, you may choose to invest in a grill or an outdoor heating source. However, placing grills or fire pits too close to your home’s vinyl siding can cause the siding to warp or melt due to the intense heat. Even reflective surfaces like windows or glass tables can focus sunlight onto the siding, leading to heat damage.
If you want to protect your vinyl from accidental damage, you should keep grills, fire pits, and other heat sources at least 10 feet away from your siding. Use protective barriers or heat shields when necessary. Also, try to be mindful of where reflective surfaces are positioned to avoid concentrated heat exposure.
5. Improper Cleaning Techniques
If your vinyl siding is getting dirty, you might consider cleaning it on your own. Unfortunately, using harsh chemicals or abrasive tools can scratch, discolor, or weaken the vinyl. Over time, this can compromise the siding’s protective coating and make it more susceptible to damage, leading to costly replacements or repairs.
When you prepare to clean your siding, it is best to use a soft cloth or brush and a mild cleaning solution. You should also avoid using steel wool, harsh abrasives, or chemicals that are not designed for vinyl care. You may also want to speak to your vinyl professional about what they recommend using to treat the vinyl to ensure it is safe from accidental damage.
Address Accidental Damage to Your Vinyl Siding with Unlimited Siding
While you can do everything in your power to protect your vinyl siding, accidents may happen. If you are dealing with accidental damage, it is best to reach out to a reliable vinyl siding company, like Unlimited Siding, for support. Our team has helped homeowners across the Ogden, Utah, area treat and repair vinyl siding, making us the perfect choice for your siding as well. In addition to installing and repairing siding, our team provides soffits and fascia services to ensure your home looks its very best. If you would like to speak to a member of our team about accidental damage your siding has experienced or if you have questions about our services, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
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