In order to enjoy the aesthetic appeal of your wood vinyl siding Boston, MA for a long time, it’s important that you properly and diligently maintain it. As you know, replacing it is expensive.
Below are some tips to help you avoid costly repairs:
Finish Wood Siding
Wood should be regularly finished with paint, stain or a sealer. If left unprotected, this material will be susceptible to decay and rot. Moreover, wood tends to contract and expand depending on the temperature and humidity. As a result, paint finishes end up chipping and cracking. Over time, this will put a strain on the caulked seams surrounding the doors, windows and the corners.
Paint is available in a wide variety of colors and you can choose to change it anytime you want to. On the other hand, staining is a great choice for wood since it allows the natural beauty of the grain to shine through. Clear sealers are also a good choice and help prevent moisture damage while allowing the material to retain its natural look.
Clean Stains
Dirt is one of the most common causes of discoloration in wood. You should take the time to clean the vinyl siding Boston, MA at least once a year. You can use warm and soapy water along with a brush that has soft bristles.
Mildew may appear as black spots. You can clean it with a solution that has a combination of four parts water and one part bleach. Rust stains that appear as dark splotches or vertical streaks can be cleaned using an oxalic acid. Dissolve 4 oz. of oxalic acid to one cup of warm water and apply to the affected areas.
Restore the Color of Natural Wood
The best way to restore the original color of a wood that has discolored with age is to use a wood brightener or wood cleaner. These products are specially intended for wooden decks, but they can also work well on wood siding. They can be bought from a home improvement store and come with a manufacturer’s instructions that you can easily follow.
Replace Damaged Wood Siding
It’s best to replace wood sidings that have shown signs of damage. Most of these damages are caused by stones and sticks or other hard objects. Occasionally, the material will also show some cracks as a result of temperature changes. A repair will require removing the damaged piece and replacing it with a new one. However, if you don’t have the tools and the skills, it may be best to hire a professional for the job.
Prevent Damage
Remember that your home’s exterior is vulnerable to water infiltration and other damages. In order to avoid costly repairs, it is best to prevent these damages from happening. Check the Boston siding regularly and be wary of the caulk that has cracked because of age. Reapply an exterior caulk when the weather is dry. This will help you prevent any future damages that are costly to repair.