Kansas City weather is hard on siding. The heat, cold, and wind all wear it down little by little. Doing basic siding maintenance helps stop damage before it starts. You don’t need fancy gear or strong cleaners. A soft brush, mild soap, and a garden hose are all you really need to keep it in shape.

We work with James Hardie siding every day and see how a little care makes a big difference. The steps below show what we teach homeowners to do between seasons.

At-a-Glance Care Schedule (Fits KC Weather)

• Every 6–12 months: Rinse with a low-pressure garden hose and use a soft, medium-bristle brush or cloth.
• After big storms or wind: Spot-clean dirt and debris.
• Spring and fall: Check caulk, flashing, sprinklers, and that plants do not touch the wall.
• ColorPlus® finish: Simple cleaning works best. Use touch-up only when needed.

Key Takeaway: Small, steady care beats rare deep cleaning. Put reminders on your calendar.

Siding Maintenance: Tools & Cleaners You Actually Need

• Bucket, soft nylon or horsehair brush, microfiber cloths, garden hose with nozzle
• Mild dish soap for greasy marks
• Mildew-labeled cleaner for mildew
• Avoid harsh acids or strong solvents

Pro Tip: Work on a cool day or in the shade so soap does not dry on the wall.

Need expert help with siding maintenance or touch-ups? Contact Fairway Exteriors for a free consultation.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean James Hardie Siding

Light Dirt and Dust

Brush along the plank direction. Rinse from the top down in small sections. Keep the wall wet until you finish.

Grease, Handprints, Pollutants

Mix mild dish soap and water. Wipe the spot. Rinse well. Do not let soap dry on the surface.

Mold or Mildew

Use a cleaner that lists mildew on the label. Lightly scrub with a soft sponge. Rinse very well.

Pro Tip: Move shade to sun, one area at a time. Wet. Clean. Rinse. Then step down to the next area.

What Not To Do

• No high-pressure power washing
• No abrasive pads or metal brushes
• No harsh acids or strong solvents
• For clay, gypsum, or mortar dust on ColorPlus®, use the ColorPlus® Supplemental Cleaning Method

Key Takeaway: Gentle methods protect the finish and help your warranty.

ColorPlus® Touch-Up and Small Repairs

Use a James Hardie ColorPlus® Touch-Up Kit for small nicks. Apply lightly and feather the edge. For primed boards painted on site, follow your paint brand’s care guide. If the damage is larger than a small nick, we can help.

KC-Specific Maintenance Checklist

• Gutters and downspouts flow clear with no overflow on the wall
• Sprinkler heads do not spray the siding
• Plants, mulch, and soil stay 2–6 inches off the siding
• Store ice melt and fertilizer away from the wall
• Inspect caulk joints, head flashings, and kick-out flashings before the heavy rain season

Troubleshooting Guide (Fast Fix)

• Chalking or haze: Gentle wash. If it stays, note the age and exposure and call us.
• Green or black patches: Use a mildew cleaner, rinse well, and improve sun or airflow.
• Paint nicks on ColorPlus: Use a ColorPlus® touch-up kit and feather lightly.
• Rust-like dust after masonry work: Follow the ColorPlus® Supplemental Cleaning Method.

Pro Tip: If a stain does not lift after the right method, stop and call our team before you try stronger cleaners.

When To Call Fairway Exteriors

• Stains stay after proper cleaning
• Signs of moisture near joints or trim
• Impact damage, swelling, or caulk that fails again
• You want a full home wash and inspection with photo and video updates

We stand behind our work on every job. If you want a safe, simple plan for siding maintenance, we are ready to help. Schedule your free inspection visit, ask questions about ColorPlus® touch-ups, or explore related services like windows, doors, and decks.