How To Clean Cedar Shingles On A House

How to Clean Cedar Shingles on a House

Cedar shingles add a beautiful, rustic charm to any home. However, these natural wood shingles are susceptible to dirt, mildew, moss, and algae buildup over time. Cleaning your cedar shingles is essential for maintaining their aesthetic appeal and extending their lifespan. This guide will walk you through the process of safely and effectively cleaning your cedar shingle siding.

Assessing Your Cedar Shingles

Before you begin cleaning, take a close look at your cedar shingles to assess their condition. Identify the type and extent of the dirt and grime. Is it primarily surface dirt, or are there significant patches of mildew, moss, or algae? This assessment will help you determine the cleaning method best suited for your needs. Consider factors like:

• Severity of staining: Light surface dirt requires a gentler approach than heavy mildew or algae growth.
• Shingle condition: Are the shingles cracked, damaged, or rotting? If so, repairs should be done before cleaning.
• Weather conditions: Avoid cleaning on extremely hot or windy days. A slightly overcast day is ideal.

Gathering Your Supplies

Cleaning cedar shingles requires the right tools and supplies. Ensure you have the following:

• Garden hose with a nozzle: A nozzle allows you to adjust the water pressure.
• Soft-bristled brush: Avoid stiff brushes that could damage the shingles. A long-handled brush will be beneficial for reaching higher areas.
• Cleaning solution: The choice depends on the severity of the dirt. For light dirt, a simple solution of water and mild dish soap might suffice. For heavier mildew or algae, a specialized wood cleaner or a solution of bleach and water (use caution with bleach – always follow instructions carefully and protect surrounding plants).
• Safety goggles: Protect your eyes from splashing cleaning solutions.
• Work gloves: Protect your hands from harsh chemicals and splinters.
• Ladder (if needed): Ensure the ladder is stable and properly secured before use.
• Bucket: For mixing your cleaning solution.
• Pressure washer (optional): For tougher stains, a pressure washer can be used but exercise extreme caution to avoid damaging the shingles. Use the lowest pressure setting possible.

Cleaning Your Cedar Shingles: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preparation is Key: Start by rinsing the shingles thoroughly with water to remove loose dirt and debris. This pre-rinse will make the cleaning process more effective.

2. Apply Your Cleaning Solution: Mix your chosen cleaning solution according to the instructions. Apply the solution to a small section of the shingles at a time, working from the bottom up. Allow the solution to sit for the recommended time (usually 10-15 minutes), allowing it to penetrate and break down the grime.

3. Scrub Gently: Using your soft-bristled brush, gently scrub the shingles to remove the loosened dirt and grime. Avoid harsh scrubbing, which can damage the wood.

4. Rinse Thoroughly: Once you've scrubbed the entire section, rinse it thoroughly with water. Make sure to remove all traces of the cleaning solution.

5. Repeat as Needed: Repeat steps 2-4 for the remaining sections of your cedar shingle siding.

6. Allow to Dry: Let the shingles dry completely before assessing the results. You may need to repeat the process for particularly stubborn stains.

Post-Cleaning Care

After cleaning, inspect your cedar shingles for any damage or areas that require further attention. Consider applying a wood preservative to help protect the wood from future damage. Regular cleaning, along with preventative measures, will keep your cedar shingles looking their best for years to come.

Important Safety Precautions

• Always follow the instructions on any cleaning product labels carefully.
• Wear appropriate safety gear, including safety goggles and work gloves.
• Never mix bleach with ammonia. This creates toxic gases.
• Use caution when using a ladder. Ensure it's stable and secured before climbing.
• If you are uncomfortable with any aspect of this process, it's best to consult a professional cleaning service.

By following these steps and prioritizing safety, you can successfully clean your cedar shingles and maintain the beauty of your home. Remember that regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial for preserving the longevity and aesthetic appeal of your cedar shingle siding.