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Clapboard Siding
Here on Cape Cod, clapboard siding is usually either natural (unpainted) or painted cedar. On occasion, we also see some HardiePlank (fiber cement) siding. Whether it's painted or
au naturale, clapboard siding will look better and last longer if kept clean. We have several ways to wash it all.
"But HOW do you clean clapboard siding?"
Really, it depends whether it's painted, stained, or natural, and then also what it's condition is. Clapboard siding which is painted and in good shape generally doesn't warrant the same extensive cleaning as natural (bare, untreated) siding which is 20+ year old. For these reasons, we offer softwashing, powerwashing (shown below), and a combination of both. All methods use eco-friendly non-phosphate cleaning solutions.
"Explain
power washing and
soft washing."
As the name implies, power washing (or "pressure washing") relies more upon pressure to clean a surface. "Soft washing" relies more upon chemicals and less upon rinsing pressure. Both methods require the application of a cleaning solution.
"Is the cleaning solution really THAT important?"
Yes. When it comes to the outsides of their house, we can't overemphasize the importance of an appropriate cleaning solution. The right cleaning solution will loosen everything on the surface, making it easier to rinse away. As a good illustration, just look what comes off this old red cedar clapboard with the application of hydrogen peroxide:
"Will power washing damage my cedar siding? "
No, not when done with the
right tools, the
right chemical solutions, and the
right experience. Keep in mind, though: if done incorrectly, ANY form of cleaning can damage cedar shingled siding.
"My recently-painted siding looks horrible... "
We have the right environment to grow mold and algae. It may be that your siding needs just a gentle cleaning. If mold and algae return rapidly after a thorough cleaning, it may be that the surface was not cleaned and prepped properly before painting, and now the mold is inside the paint.
"Our natural clapboard looks so dull..."
When first installed, red cedar clapboard has a pinkish, rosy appearance. If it stays "healthy" and weathers well, it turns silver through oxidation. Unfortunately, we often see natural clapboard turn black and green from mold and algae.
When we wash red cedar clapboard siding in this condition, we can return it to something close to it's appearance when originally installed. The silver color will return again as the siding weathers with time.
"Can you clean our siding before it is re-stained?"
Yes. Before the paint, stain, or primer is applied, the quality and longevity of your project will depend greatly upon how well the surfaces are cleaned. With that in mind, remember that cleaning is all we do!
