Wood siding is a traditional construction material that is used for creating beautiful building claddings. However, since technology is growing fast currently, manufacturers have managed to produce more sustainable materials such as aluminum composite panels. But, there are still homeowners that prefer to use natural wood for their homes. The problem with these beautiful materials is their maintenance. If you are one of those homeowners who prefer traditional materials but don’t know how to maintain wood siding, we are here to help you.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Wood Sidings
Wood siding offers various advantages for homeowners in different regions. However, this cladding system also has its drawbacks. If your home has wood facades, you know what the challenges are, and it is better to go to the next section and learn how to maintain wood siding with some simple steps. But, if you have never used this type of cladding, you need to know its advantages and disadvantages.
Wood Facade Siding Advantages
- Natural Beauty
- Native Insulation Factor
- Eco-Friendly Materials
- Available in Different Species
- Colors and Textures Variety
- Wood Sidings are Dimensionally Stable
Disadvantages of Wood Sidings
- It is not easy to maintain wood siding.
- Susceptible to water and humidity.
- Termites can cause damage to wood facades.
With this said, if you want to use these natural cladding systems for your home, you need to know how to maintain wood siding.
Maintain Wood Siding With These 6 Steps
We have provided some simple yet essential steps to help you maintain wood siding and make your home look beautiful like always.
Trim Back Trees or Bushes from Touching Your Wood Facade
The contact between your wood cladding and tree branches will increase the panel’s susceptibility to rot. So it is better to trim the trees and bushes away from your facade to maintain wood siding.
Clean Your Gutters Regularly to Maintain Wood Siding
Water and ice can cause severe damage to your wood siding. So if you want to maintain wood siding, you need to clean gutters at least twice a year. You can do this once in the fall, after leaves fall down and before winter, and once at the beginning of spring.
Clean of Dirt and Mildew from Your Wood Cladding
It is sufficient to apply a brush with soapy water to your cladding system to maintain the wood facade. However, if your cladding panels are dirty, you will need to use power washers.
When you wash your siding with a power washer, make sure to use a low setting so that you will not damage the siding. If there is some mildew on your siding, you can apply a solution of 3 parts water and 1 part of bleach to the spots.
If you have plants around your house, it is better to cover them with a sheet so that you won’t damage them with the cleaning solution.
Re-caulk Around Windows and Doors to Maintain Wood Siding
The gaps and spaces between your wood siding panels and the structural elements are the perfect opportunities for water to penetrate the panels. So, you need to check the areas around the windows and doors during your annual cleaning and seal the gaps with high-quality caulk substance.
Apply a Wood Stain or Clear Sealer to Your Siding
You can protect and maintain wood siding against bleaching by sunlight with a clear sealer. It is better to apply the clear sealer every few years. However, wood stain is a more effective protection as it sinks deeper into the material and lasts long against humidity. Generally, you need to apply two coats every four years, and it is better to use the sprayer to apply the stain.
Replace Damaged Wood Panels ASAP
Due to the wet springs and harsh winters, the damaged wood siding panels can trap moisture and cause various issues. So, if you see any of your siding panels that have a crack, rotten spots, or broken, you need to replace or restrain them as soon as possible.
Although there are various ways to repair and maintain wood siding, it is better to rely on professionals when it comes to broken sidings.
