So, you're thinking about getting your home's siding cleaned. Good call. It's not just about curb appeal; keeping that gunk off your siding can extend its life, especially with all the dust and wind we get here in Guymon. But before you just pick up the phone and call the first guy you see, let's talk about how to plan this out right.
When's the Best Time to Clean Your Siding?
Timing is everything, right? For siding cleaning here in the Oklahoma Panhandle, you've got a few things to consider. I usually tell folks to aim for late spring or early fall. Why then?
Spring Cleaning: After the winter winds and whatever dust storms we've had, your siding probably looks pretty rough. Getting it cleaned in April or May means you're washing away all that winter grime and getting your house ready for summer. Plus, the temperatures are usually just right – not too hot, not too cold for the cleaning solutions to work effectively.
Fall Prep: Cleaning in September or October is also a smart move. You're getting rid of all the summer dust, pollen, and maybe some stubborn insect nests before winter sets in. It ensures your siding goes into the colder months clean, which can help prevent mildew from really taking hold under snow or ice.
What you want to avoid is cleaning when it's super hot and sunny, because cleaning solutions can dry too fast and leave streaks. And obviously, don't plan it when it's freezing outside; water can turn to ice, which is a whole different problem.
What to Expect During the Siding Cleaning Process
Alright, you've picked a time. What happens when the crew shows up? It's not just someone spraying water at your house, at least not if they're doing it right. Here's the general rundown:
First, a good crew will do a quick walk-around with you. They'll point out any areas of concern, like heavy mildew spots or places where the siding might be a little loose. This is a good time to make sure you're both on the same page about what needs to be done.
Then, they'll usually start with some prep work. This means covering up sensitive plants, making sure windows are tightly shut, and sometimes even taping off electrical outlets. You don't want cleaning solutions or high-pressure water getting where it shouldn't.
Next comes the actual cleaning. Most pros use a method called