How to wash your aluminum or vinyl siding.

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While it's not something you'll want to do too frequently (big job!), there are times when you'll need to bite the bullet and "wash your house". Over time, most siding develops mildew and/or oxidation, which detracts considerably from the original 'crispness' and 'freshness' of new siding. You can restore some of that beauty without actually breaking your back! And, depending on the size and style of house, you might be able to do it without even climbing a ladder (ranch style houses, especially). The process is quite simple. Just follow these steps: 1. Procure a box of TSP powder (Trisodium Phospate) at your local hardware store or home center. 2. Procure also a telescoping brush kit (also available at most home centers)...best kind for this type of cleaning is the kind that you can connect to your garden hose. 3. Follow all manufacturers' labels and instructions for any precautions and/or personal protective equipment recommended. 4. Follow manufacturer's label instructions for mixing the TSP powder with water, in a bucket large enough to accept the brush-head. 5. If your house is a 'ranch' style, you might not need a ladder; if not, you probably will. 6. From the ground and/or ladder, hose a section of the house down to rinse off surface dust, pollen, etc. 7. Once an area is wet, dip your brush head in the TSP/water solution and brush the siding...starting as high as you can reach with the telescoping brush. 8. Working from top to bottom, brush the area you're working on thoroughly. 9. Once you've brushed thoroughly, rinse with clean water. 10. Repeat this process for the entire house. NOTES: -Always read and follow label instructions for safe handling and working with chemical products. -Always practice safe ladder-use. See http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/construction/falls/4ladders.html for portable ladder safety guidelines.