There are a few different strategies to go about cleaning aluminum siding, some homeowners opts to clean it themselves, others prefer to hire a company to do the task for them. When cleaning the aluminum siding is often suggested that six-month intervals are appropriate, or as deemed necessary.

Cleaning aluminum siding often involves attaching a hose to an apparatus that mixes detergent and water. If using a pressure washer be advised not to have the setting too high or you may risk damaging or denting your aluminum siding. Another disadvantage to pressure washing is that at to high a setting you risk forcing water through any crevices, causing leaks. The best and most thorough route to go about cleaning the aluminum siding is applying the detergent with a soft bristled brush and then gently hosing off the area. This gentle method will remove any built-up dirt and residue while protecting the siding. For more info see http://www.homesidingreview.com/Fiber_Cement_Siding/ on Fiber Cement Siding

A little prep work is required before cleaning aluminum siding. First make certain that any electrical outlets that may come in contact with the water are shut off. Next in sure any windows and doors are closed, and that the area surrounding your house is clear of anything you do not want to get wet.

Unfortunately cleaning will only go so far, if your paint is badly damaged due to natural exposure, improper cleaning, or harsh weather conditions you will need to repaint. Damaged paint is quite unattractive on aluminum siding, and often looks chalky, flecked, or even worn away to the point of exposing bare aluminum.

The best time to repaint is after cleaning aluminum siding. This is not a horribly difficult job, but it is time consuming. Most homeowners opt to hire a qualified painter to paints the exterior of their home rather than tackling this job themselves. Should the adventurous homeowner decide to paints themselves a few things must be kept in mind. First, any areas destined to be painted must first be sanded and primed with a metal primer. Then when choosing actual paint you must get a high-quality exterior paint. This is not an expensive paint, and it is no time to be cheap. Cheap paints will not last as long, nor look as good.