Wash and inspect your siding
A gentle wash brightens the whole house and gives you a close look at caulk and paint before small problems grow.
Step by step
If your home was built before 1978, assume the paint may contain lead. Don't power-wash, dry-scrape or sand it. Use lead-safe practices or hire a lead-safe certified contractor.
Close the windows and cover outlets, light fixtures and nearby plants.
Wash from the bottom of the wall up to prevent streaking, using a soft cloth or soft-bristle brush.
Rinse thoroughly before the cleaner dries on the surface.
On vinyl, avoid organic solvents, undiluted chlorine bleach, grease removers, nail polish remover and furniture polish.
Inspect as you go: cracked or missing caulk at trim and where pipes and wires enter, peeling or bubbling paint, soft wood and loose panels.
Wood, fiber cement and stucco need periodic repainting and recaulking. Fix whatever moisture is causing peeling before you repaint.
Safety first. A pressure washer can be used on vinyl only with care. Keep the spray level and never aim upward, which drives water behind the panels. Follow the siding maker's pressure limits and stay clear of windows, doors and wiring.