Like any other exterior siding surface, vinyl siding will have dirt exposure from atmospheric conditions. Ordinarily, the cleaning action of rainfall will be adequate to wash the outside of your home. However, vinyl siding and soffit should be washed periodically by rinsing with a garden hose and clear water particularly in those areas not exposed directly to rain. If you desire to do a more thorough cleaning, especially if high soil collection conditions exist, follow these simple instructions:

To Clean Vinyl Siding:

• Use a soft-bristled, long-handled washing brush (it attaches to your garden hose and makes washing your siding easier). Do not rub vigorously, as this may create glossy areas over the vinyl siding finish.
• For hard-to-remove dirt, such as soot and grime found in industrial areas, wipe the siding down with a solution consisting of:
  1/3 cup powdered detergent
  2/3 cup household cleaner
  1 gallon water
• If mildew is a problem, substitute 1 quart of laundry bleach for 1 quart of water in the solution above.
• If you wash down the entire house, start at the bottom and work up to the top, as less streaking will result.
• Immediately following all washing operations, thoroughly rinse with fresh water from a garden hose. Avoid prolonged or high-pressure rinsing of ventilated areas.
• For best results, select a cool overcast day (55–75°F) and wash small areas at a time. Allow the solution to remain in contact for at least 3 minutes, then rinse before it dries.

CAUTION: Greater concentrations may damage the finish. Do not use abrasive, solvent, or ammoniated cleaners.

Recommended Products:

To clean interior woodgrain or exterior beige and cocoa, use ONLY mild soapy water.

Not Recommended Products:

• Clorox
• Pine Power
• Ivory Liquid
• Grease Relief
• Tide
• Nail Polish Remover
• Gasoline or Turpentine

Glass:

Use store-bought glass cleaners or soapy water for best results.

What is Condensation?

Condensation is the result of high humidity meeting a colder surface, often seen as a foggy mirror after a hot shower.

Causes & Solutions:

• Windows serve as visible indicators of moisture but don't produce water.
• Excess humidity from activities like cooking and laundry can lead to condensation.
• Use exhaust fans and improve ventilation to reduce indoor humidity.

What is Convection?

Convection is energy transfer through air movement caused by temperature differences across window surfaces.

Mitigation:

Consider windows with multiple glazing, gas fills, warm edge spacers, and thermally resistant frames.

Stain Formula Guide

This quart formula applies to Oak, Pine, and Poplar (conditioning needed for Pine & Poplar prior to staining):

Sherwin-Williams Wood Classics Stain - Fruitwood Base (A49N202)

• B1 Black – 5/32 + 1/64
• R2 Maroon – 21/32 + 1/128
• Y1 Yellow – 10/32
• Y3 Deep Gold – 24/32 + 1/64

*Use at your own risk. Formulations based on quart sizes tinted by Sherwin-Williams.