How To Wash Your Aluminum or Vinyl Siding: Graphic representation for "How To Wash Your Aluminum or Vinyl Siding".

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:
Items needed:
1. Cleaning solution (recommend using Trisodium Phosphate or "TSP"--cost is around $2.00 per pound at home centers, hardware stores or department stores).
2. Garden hose connected to outside faucet.
3. Telescoping 'scrub brush' (can be the kind that connects to hose if preferred)--cost is around $20.00 at home centers or department stores.
4. Ladder(s); if house height requires ladder use, remember to use caution when setting up and working from ladders!
5. Bucket--large enough for the brush head to be dipped into it.
So...let's get started:

1. Procure a box of TSP powder (Trisodium Phospate) at your local hardware store or home center. Be sure to read the label for the manufacturer's recommendations on personal protective equipment or clothing.
2. Procure also a telescoping brush kit.
3. Follow all manufacturers' labels and instructions for any precautions and/or personal protective equipment recommended. Purchase as needed (safety glasses/goggles, gloves, etc.).
4. Follow manufacturer's label instructions for mixing the TSP powder with water, in your bucket.
5. If your house is a ranch, raised-ranch or split level, you might not need a ladder, as the telescoping brush will likely reach most of the height from the ground. However, a multi-story house will require a ladder and/or scaffolding if conditions warrant that.
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, working only on section sizes that you can wet, scrub and rinse within a ten minute period.
SAFETY NOTES:
-Always read and follow label instructions for safe handling, personal protective equipment recommendations and other work instructions regarding chemical products.
-Always practice safe ladder-use. See http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/... for portable ladder safety guidelines.