Best Siding Material for Wet Conditions

• Vinyl Siding– most commonly used (68% of commercial and residential buildings) on East North Central Homes (Illinois, Indiana and Ohio) in 2022 according to the National Association of Home Builders and the Census Bureau’s Survey of Construction (SOC)  Vinyl siding color may fade over time under direct sunlight, but is highly resistant to water absorption, wind and rot during the moderate temperatures experienced by Lanesville IN, New Albany IN, and Lousiville KY residents. For extra protection, you may consider asking professionals about adding extra vinyl siding insulation during your next siding replacement or siding installation service.
• Brick or Brick Veneer  – next most commonly used (47%) in East South Central States (Kentucky, Tennessee, Missouri and Alabama) in 2022. Brick is a classic old-fashioned look that stands up to wet environmental conditions well. Although moss or mildew can become an issue in shady areas of the building, brick siding withstands high winds, insects and pests, and sunlight. Cracks will need to repaired quickly since freezing temperatures can cause damage if water gets into the cracks during cold weather. Brick siding is slightly more expensive, but a great investment in the long run.
• Fiber Cement – second most commonly used siding material in Indiana and Kentucky in 2022. Fiber cement siding is made up of a mixture of sand, cement, and wood pulp. It is becoming more popular and withstands all sorts of wet and windy conditions. This quality siding material is rot, insect, UV sunlight resistant. It is heavy and durable and available in a variety of colors and types.
• Wood or Wood Products – beautiful siding option but is highly susceptible to wood rot, insect infestation, and mildew/algae growth in humid environments. Wood siding is available as planks and shingles and will require an increased amount of maintenance than other siding types. Expands and contracts during fluctuating temperatures.
• Steel, Metal or Aluminum Siding – a less aesthetically appealing option for some Indiana/Kentucky neighborhoods, but is highly wind and snow. Steel may need to be pre-treated to resist rust.
• Stone, Rock, Concrete block or other stone materials – similar to brick and brick veneer. Can be more expensive than other siding materials.
• Stucco Siding– does NOT do well in moist climates because moisture can become trapped between the stucco and substrate material. Using an effective moisture barrier may help in preventing moisture build-up in these areas.

Looking for a local and trustworthy siding installer? Get the King to visit your home and give an estimate. Call: 502-388-3911 or schedule an appointment online and speak to The King’s Mitigator.

How To Clean Dirty Siding Without Causing Damage

Step 1: Remove All Debris.

Before chemically cleaning your siding, take a moment to assess and remove all debris that is leaning against the siding panels or is stuck between the cracks or edges. Bird nests, pine needles, tree branches, overgrown bushes or trees that lean against the house or building will need to be removed. Any debris that is allowed to collect over time will redirect the water during heavy rainfall or snow and backflow through the panels and along the interior parts of the siding, thus rendering the siding’s water repelling abilities ineffective in that area.

Step 2: Use DIY (Do-It-Yourself) Cleaning Tricks for Small Surface Areas on Vinyl Siding.

NEVER use harsh chemicals like paint-thinner, gasoline, nail polish, concentrated bleach, furniture polish, ect. on your vinyl siding. This will damage the siding material and ruin its color. Instead, try using a 1:10 ratio of dish soap to water, a 70% water to 30% vinegar blend or baking soda for mold/ mildew removal. NEVER use rough scrubbing devices like steel wool, paint scrapers or brushes that have wire bristles. Instead use a regular dishcloth or soft bristled brush.

Step 3: Invest in a Pressure Washer or Hire a Professional Siding Contractor for Larger Jobs and Tough to Remove Mildew, Mold and Dirt. 

Sometimes hard to remove gunk and mildew will need a little more elbow grease. Pressures washers can be a great investment, but make sure that you use them correctly. When using a pressure washer first make sure you follow all instructions and check all liquid (oil & fuel for gas powered washer) levels per manufacturer’s instructions. Electric Powered Pressure washers are good for lighter soiled areas with paint, for grills and for cleaning cars using 1300-1400 PSI.

For tougher to remove stains and oils, gas-powered pressure washers are recommended since they typically deliver a much more powerful spray at 3,000 PSI (pounds per square inch). When spraying, ALWAYS remember to point the pressure washer hose down at a 45 degree angle to prevent spraying water under the panels of siding. Water may become trapped below the siding and become a whole other mold problem in itself. The high humid conditions of Kentuckiana summers can make it difficult for trapped moisture to evaporate completely, causing prime conditions for wood rot, mold growth and decay.

Looking for a local and trustworthy siding installer? Get the King to visit your home and give an estimate. Call: 502-388-3911 or schedule an appointment online and speak to The King’s Mitigator.

More Pressure Washing Tips

– Pick the Correct Nozzle (0-degree spray nozzle is best for removing dirt and oil, 15-degree spray nozzle is best for siding and decks, 40-degree nozzle is best near windows and lighting fixtures). Multiple size spray nozzles are usually included when purchasing gas-powered pressure washers.

– Connect the Water/Garden Hose to the Pressure Washer Water Inlet and Test The Pressure. Tip: The best way to check if your water supply has the right pressure is by determining how long it takes to fill a 5-gallon bucket. If it fills within 1-2 minutes your water supply is sufficient.

– Keep Nozzle about 4 feet away from House Siding When Spraying. This prevents damage to paint and siding products during the cleaning process.

– Use Power Washing Safety. Use goggles/glasses, boots. Stay clear of powerlines, windows and exterior lighting fixtures and vents. Use caution on ladders since high powered pressure washers can give a kick-back that could throw off your balance. Do not use gas-powered pressures in small enclosed spaces since fumes can raise to dangerous levels.

Your Professional Siding Installer

Your home is unique to you and we want to ensure you have the exact color and budget option that fits your needs. When you are looking for a siding company you will want to get acquainted with your siding installer. Find out who your contractor is. Learn about the product they use and what their warranty includes.

As your Louisville and Southern Indiana Siding Installers, customer satisfaction is our #1 priority:

• Custom Siding Styles: Choose from a range of siding manufacturers with differeing materials, colors, and patterns.
• Professional Siding Installation: Our professional siding installers are certified and skilled contractors who provide professional craftsmanship while working rapidly to reduce disruption to your day to day routines.
• Lasting Value: The King’s Mitigator Inc. will only work with dependable and trustworthy siding manufacturers and installers – because we have worked with them on the actual job site.
• Affordability and Dependability: Because we work directly with siding installers and siding product manufacturers we give the best pricing as is.
• Weather Resistance: Siding is installed to resist the elements: wind, rain, freeze/thaw cycles, and more.
• Energy-Efficiency: Maintain a better indoor temperature while experiencing a reduction in your utility bill with stellar insulated siding options.
• Simple Maintenance: No painting needed. New siding provides the home with vibrant colors with effortless upkeep.
  Professional Workmanship: Your siding set up is carried out by using neighborhood specialists that take excellent workmanship seriously, and a Limited Lifetime Warranty proves it!

Looking for a local and trustworthy siding installer? Get the King to visit your home and give an estimate. Call: 502-388-3911 or schedule an appointment online and speak to The King’s Mitigator.