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The best and safest way to clean your fiber cement siding is with gentle methods and mild cleaners to protect the finish. It’s generally recommended to clean it about once or twice a year.

1. General Dirt, Dust, and Chalk

For routine cleaning and light buildup, you only need simple tools and a gentle touch.

• Tools:
  • Garden hose (for rinsing).
  • Soft cloth or a soft-bristle brush (like an all-paint poly, chip, or horsehair brush). Never use a hard metal brush or an abrasive sponge, as these can damage the finish.
• Solution: Plain water.
• Method:

• 1. Gently brush the surface to loosen any loose dirt or dust.
  2. Rinse the area thoroughly with a low-pressure spray from your garden hose.

2. Oil, Grease, and Organic Contaminants

For minor stains, a household cleaner is usually sufficient.

• Tools: Soft cloth and garden hose.
• Solution: Mild liquid dishwashing soap (like Dawn, Ivory, or Joy) mixed with water. Do not use harsh chemicals.
• Method:
  1. Wet a soft cloth with the soapy water.
  2. Gently wipe the stained area.
  3. Rinse the area completely with your garden hose. Crucially, do not allow the soap or cleaner to dry on the siding, as it can leave streaks.

3. Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew often look like dirt, so if general cleaning doesn’t work, you may need a specialized cleaner.

• Tools: Soft cloth or soft sponge and a garden hose.
• Solution: A mildew cleaner that is safe for fiber cement siding (like Jomax, Mildew Check, or Mold Armor). Always follow the product manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Some homeowners also use a mild mixture of vinegar and water or oxygen bleach for removal.
• Method:
  1. Apply the cleaner to the affected area.
  2. Lightly scrub the area with your soft cloth or sponge.
  3. Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose, ensuring all the cleaner is washed off.