How To Take Care Of Vinyl Siding During Winter Season

5. Inspect And Maintain Caulking Around Windows And Doors

• Why It’s Important: The caulk around windows and doors seals gaps where the
  vinyl siding meets other elements, preventing drafts, moisture, and cold air from
  entering the home.
• What to Do: Inspect the caulking around windows, doors, and trim for any cracks or
  deterioration. If the caulk is damaged or missing, replace it with a high-quality,
  weather-resistant sealant to help improve energy efficiency and keep moisture out.

6. Prevent Salt Stains And Streaking

• Why It’s Important: In areas where road salt or de-icers are used, the salt can
  splatter onto your vinyl siding and cause stains or streaks. Salt can also cause
  discolouration and damage over time.
• What to Do: If you live in an area where salt is used on roads, make sure to rinse off
  your vinyl siding periodically to remove salt buildup. You can do this with a hose (if
  temperatures are above freezing) or by wiping down the siding with a soft cloth and a
  mild cleaning solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the siding’s
  surface.

7. Avoid Scraping Ice Directly From Siding

• Why It’s Important: Scraping ice or snow off vinyl siding with a metal tool could
  scratch or damage the surface, leaving marks that are hard to fix.
• What to Do: If you have ice or snow on the siding, use a soft-bristle broom or a
  plastic scraper to gently remove it. If necessary, warm water can be used to melt the
  ice or snow. Avoid using sharp or metal objects that can scratch the vinyl surface.

8. Check For Loose Or Warped Panels

• Why It’s Important: The cold winter weather can cause the vinyl siding to contract,
  which may loosen or warp the panels if they weren’t installed correctly.
• What to Do: During the winter, inspect the siding for any panels that appear loose or
  warped. Vinyl siding should expand and contract slightly with temperature changes,
  but excessive gaps or warping could be a sign that the siding wasn’t installed properly.
  Tighten any loose panels or consult a professional for any necessary adjustments.

9. Protect Your Vinyl Siding During Winter From Physical Damage

• Why It’s Important: Vinyl siding is durable, but it can be damaged by heavy snow,
  ice, or impacts from branches or other debris during storms.
• What to Do: Trim any nearby trees or branches that might cause damage to the siding
  during storms. Be careful when using snow blowers, shovels, or other outdoor tools
  near the siding to avoid scratching or cracking it.

10. Monitor and Adjust Humidity Levels Inside Your Home

• Why It’s Important: Winter indoor heating can dry out the air inside your home,
  which can cause condensation on the exterior of your vinyl siding during winter, leading to potential water damage.
• What to Do: Use a humidifier to maintain balanced humidity levels inside your home. Aim for a humidity level between 30% and 50% to reduce the risk of condensation or frost buildup on the siding. This is especially important in areas where the temperature drops significantly during the winter.