At Aztec Homes, we understand that your siding is more than just a finishing touch—it’s a critical component of your home’s exterior system. In Indianapolis, where weather conditions can swing from snow-packed winters to hot, humid summers, your siding has to work hard to protect your investment.
Maintaining your siding isn’t just about keeping your home looking nice (although it certainly helps with curb appeal); it also protects against structural damage, mold, and energy loss. With regular maintenance tailored to your specific siding material, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your siding and avoid expensive repairs or premature replacements.
Wood Siding Maintenance (e.g., Cedar or Redwood)
Wood siding adds character and natural warmth to a home. Its rich appearance makes it a popular choice for those seeking traditional or rustic design aesthetics. But unlike synthetic materials, wood is a material that reacts to changes in moisture, temperature, and sunlight. That means it requires consistent attention to prevent deterioration.
Biannual Inspections
- Conduct a visual inspection every six months, ideally during spring and fall when temperatures are milder and before seasonal extremes hit.
- Look for soft spots, discoloration, flaking paint or stain, and evidence of pest activity like termites or carpenter ants.
- Pay extra attention to horizontal seams, lower boards near soil, and shaded areas that are more prone to moisture retention.
Repainting or Restaining
- Paint or stain acts as a barrier against moisture and UV rays. Depending on your finish:
- Paint should be reapplied every 5 years.
- Semi-transparent stains typically need refreshing every 2–3 years.
- Clear sealants should be reapplied every 2 years, as they provide the least UV protection.
- Paint should be reapplied every 5 years.
- Before applying a new coat, make sure to strip any flaking material, clean the surface thoroughly, and allow it to dry completely.
- Choose high-quality, weather-resistant exterior paints or stains formulated for wood.
Annual Cleaning
Use warm, soapy water and a soft-bristled brush to remove dirt, mold, and environmental residue. Avoid using pressure washers on high settings, which can damage soft wood fibers. For mildew, apply a bleach-based solution (1 part bleach to 4 parts water), let it sit for a few minutes, scrub gently, and rinse thoroughly.
Finish by letting the siding air dry for at least 24 hours to prevent moisture trapping under any subsequent sealing treatment.
Indianapolis Climate Note: With humidity in the summer and snow melt in the winter, untreated wood can quickly absorb moisture and begin to decay. Regular inspection and sealing are vital to extending the life of your siding in central Indiana.
Vinyl Siding Maintenance
Vinyl siding is known for its affordability, low maintenance, and decent durability, making it a favorite among Indiana homeowners, especially in suburban neighborhoods and rental properties. While it won’t rot or need painting as often as wood, it’s not entirely maintenance-free.
Regular Inspections
- Inspect your siding every 4–6 months, especially after windstorms or hail events, which can crack or loosen panels.
- Look for loose fasteners, gaps in seams, bubbling, or trapped moisture, which may signal poor installation or underlying water damage.
- Check the areas near windows, doors, and corners where panels tend to loosen first.
Annual Wash
Use a garden hose with a spray nozzle and mild soap to rinse away surface dirt and grime.For tougher stains (mold, algae, tree sap), mix a solution of water, dish detergent, and white vinegar. Use a long-handled soft-bristle brush for higher areas or consider using a pressure washer with a wide fan tip set on low—always spraying from top down and never underneath the panels.
Painting Vinyl
If vinyl has faded or you want a color refresh, use exterior acrylic latex paint specifically formulated for vinyl. Choose light-to-medium shades only. Dark colors can absorb too much heat and lead to warping or buckling.
Indianapolis Tip: Because of our exposure to freeze-thaw cycles and high winds, vinyl siding can become brittle over time. Routine checks can help spot vulnerable areas before they develop into full-blown problems.
Fiber Cement Siding Maintenance
Fiber cement siding offers the best of both worlds: the aesthetic of wood with the resilience of masonry. It’s ideal for homeowners who want long-lasting performance with moderate upkeep.
Annual Inspection
Once a year, walk around your home and check for:
- Small cracks, chipping paint, and gaps in caulking—especially around windows, doors, and trim joints.
- Signs of mildew or algae, which may appear in shaded or damp areas.
- Warping or buckling that could indicate poor drainage or installation issues.
Cleaning Every 1–3 Years
To clean James Hardie siding, use a soft cloth, mild dish soap, and garden hose for routine cleaning. If there’s significant buildup, a pressure washer on a low setting (1,500 psi or less) is safe for fiber cement siding. Avoid abrasive brushes or steel wool, which could scratch the painted surface.
Painting Every 10–20 Years
- One of the benefits of fiber cement is how well it holds paint—making it a solid choice for long-term color stability.
- When it’s time to repaint, use a 100% acrylic exterior paint after cleaning and sanding any flaking areas.
- Ensure that the surface is dry and free of mildew before applying new paint.
Pro Tip: Fiber cement is rot-resistant and pest-resistant, making it especially well-suited to areas like Indianapolis where weather fluctuations can wreak havoc on natural wood.
Metal Siding Maintenance (Aluminum or Steel)
Metal siding is valued for its strength, fire resistance, and modern look. Steel and aluminum both resist pests and rot, but each has its own quirks when it comes to upkeep.
Check for Damage
- Perform a visual inspection once a year, focusing on scratches, rust spots, and dents.
- Use touch-up paint and rust-inhibiting primer on any areas where the metal is exposed.
- Dents and dings can lead to moisture penetration and rust if not addressed promptly.
Annual Cleaning
Rinse with a low-pressure power washer or hose to remove surface grime. Use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth and mild soap to remove grease, pollen, or algae. Avoid harsh chemicals like ammonia or chlorine bleach, which can degrade the protective finish.
Optional Repainting
- If the finish begins to fade or if you want a color update, repaint using specialized metal-compatible exterior paint.
- Thoroughly clean and degrease the surface, prime if necessary, and apply multiple thin coats for an even finish.
Maintenance Bonus: Metal siding is naturally fire- and insect-resistant, making it an excellent long-term choice for homeowners focused on durability and safety.
General Maintenance Tips for All Siding Types
If you want your siding to last as long as possible, these essential practices apply no matter what siding material you have:
Keep Moisture Away
Maintain a 6-inch clearance between siding and landscaping (soil, mulch, etc.). Direct sprinklers away from the house, and use drip edges or gravel near the foundation to prevent splashback.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Attic and crawlspace ventilation is critical to prevent trapped moisture behind your siding. Inspect soffit vents, ridge vents, and exhaust fans seasonally to ensure airflow.
Trim Trees and Shrubs
Branches scraping siding can lead to scratches, paint loss, or denting. Maintain at least 1–2 feet of clearance around your home’s exterior.
Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters cause water to overflow and seep behind siding, leading to mold and rot. Inspect and clean your gutters at least twice a year, and ensure downspouts extend several feet from the home.
Fire Safety
Avoid placing grills or firepits near the siding, especially vinyl or wood. Store gas cans, firewood, and outdoor heaters safely away from exterior walls.
When It’s Time to Replace Your Siding
Even the most well-maintained siding materials will eventually wear out. You may need a full replacement if you notice:
- Widespread rot or soft spots, especially in wood siding.
- Persistent mold, mildew, or algae that returns quickly after cleaning.
- Cracked, warped, or missing panels that affect insulation and aesthetics.
- Sudden spikes in heating and cooling bills due to compromised thermal protection.
- A faded, worn-down exterior that no longer reflects your home’s value or your style.
Trust the Experts at Aztec Homes for Siding Repair and Replacement
When it comes to maintaining or replacing your siding in the Indianapolis area, Aztec Homes brings unmatched expertise, materials, and care to every job. Whether you need help identifying an issue, want a long-term maintenance plan, or are ready for a fresh exterior transformation, we’re here to help you protect your home investment.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get expert advice on keeping your home’s siding in peak condition.
