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Vinyl can withstand many different cleaning methods, but there are two things you need to be wary of. First, particularly harsh chemicals will damage your vinyl siding and reduce its lifespan. Second, be careful about pressure washing your vinyl siding. Vinyl can resist powerful washing damage more than softer siding like wood, but high levels of pressure can still crack it. Use the lowest level of pressure for power washing vinyl, or hire a siding professional to do it.

Homeowners insurance may cover the cost of siding repair or replacement, but coverage depends on the cause of the damage. Most policies will cover damage from a covered event, such as a storm, wind, hail, fire, natural disaster, or other impact damage. Your policy might pay for the full or partial cost of the repair or replacement. However, damage resulting from age, general wear and tear, or neglect is typically not covered, and you should expect to pay for those repairs out of pocket. It is best to review your specific homeowners insurance policy for full details on what is covered, how to file a claim, and what documentation is required.

Some homeowners use caulk on the edges of clapboard siding to help seal it. However, this method invites new problems. With so many gaps sealed, clapboard siding is often unable to drain properly and moisture from rain or other sources can build up inside. This can lead to rot and other issues over time. When repairing clapboards, it’s best to avoid caulking the final product. The exception is trim around windows and doors, which should be caulked to avoid moisture problems.

Bleach can be an option if you want to kill mold and mildew clinging to your siding. However, you must water bleach down to the right concentration of a 1/2 cup of bleach per gallon of water to avoid damaging your siding. Bleach can also harm plants in your yard and isn’t safe to use near pets, so employ it with caution.

Local pressure washing services often offer non-bleach options that can powerfully remove mold and mildew.