Spring is just around the corner, bringing the rainy season with it. As you begin your spring cleaning, make sure to add a siding inspection to your to-do list. If you live in Austin and haven’t replaced your siding yet, chances are it’s Masonite siding. It’s important to understand that Masonite, also known as hardboard siding, is made from wood fibers and resin. This composition can absorb moisture if the paint or protective coating is damaged or worn down. Over time, trapped moisture can cause damages like swelling, warping, and even rotting. Most importantly, Masonite is now a discontinued product, making repairs difficult and the need for replacements to more durable materials like James Hardie fiber cement siding more prevalent. If you notice any of these issues, you’ll likely need to find a siding replacement company to replace your damaged Masonite siding.

To avoid the need for a quick search of “Siding replacement near me,” it’s essential to regularly check your siding for cracks or signs of peeling paint. Repainting or resealing can significantly extend the lifespan of your siding, helping maintain your home’s exterior for years. While wear and tear from harsh weather is inevitable, as one of the top siding contractors in Austin, TX, we’ve seen how improper cleaning can lead to lasting damage to Masonite siding.

If you’re considering residential siding installation or siding replacement in the future, some care now can buy you time before you need a full replacement.

Here’s how to properly clean and maintain your siding

Step-by-Step Instructions

 

1. Dry Brush Off Dirt

Use a soft-bristle brush or broom to gently remove dust, dirt, and cobwebs from the surface. Be careful not to scratch the siding.

2. Prepare Cleaning Solution

Mix a mild detergent (such as dish soap) with warm water in a bucket. For tougher stains or mildew, add a cup of white vinegar. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the Masonite.

3. Test in a Small Area

Before applying the cleaning solution to the entire surface, test it in a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it won’t cause damage or discoloration.

4. Wash the Siding

Use a soft cloth or sponge soaked in the soapy water to gently scrub the siding. Work in small sections to prevent the soap from sitting too long. Apply more pressure for tougher dirt, but avoid scrubbing too hard to prevent scratching.

5. Rinse Thoroughly

After cleaning each section, rinse the siding with a garden hose to remove all soap residue. Always rinse from top to bottom to avoid streaks.

6. Use a Pressure Washer (Optional)

If you’re using a pressure washer, set it to the lowest setting (around 1,200–1,500 psi). Keep the nozzle 3–4 feet away from the surface, holding it at a 45-degree angle and pointing downward to avoid water getting behind the siding.

7. Dry the Siding

Use a soft, clean towel or cloth to gently pat down the cleaned areas, or let the siding air dry. Avoid abrasive materials that could scratch the surface.

8. Repeat if Necessary

For stubborn stains, you may need to repeat the cleaning process. A mixture of water and bleach (1:1) can help, but be cautious, as bleach can be harsh on both the siding and surrounding landscaping.

Client Testimonials

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Heather Wills
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We had a great experience working with Genuine TX Exteriors on our home project(windows/siding & gutter replacement)! Their team was friendly, worked hard, and really took the time to make sure everything was done exactly the way we wanted it. Communication was excellent throughout the process, and they were always easy to reach whenever we had questions or needed anything. We couldn’t be happier with how our home turned out. We really appreciate the care they put into their work and would happily recommend Genuine TX Exteriors to anyone looking to update the exterior of their home!
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Haley Parsons
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We loved working, Michael. The crew was professional and did a great job repairing loose and broken boards on our exterior. They also installed some beautiful cedar planks on our patio ceiling, which turned out really nice and painted our front door.
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Lisa Stolf
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I had a great experience working with Genuine Texas Exteriors. Every interaction I had with their team was handled professionally and courteously. The quality of their work was excellent, and they were both accommodating and mindful of my budget as well as the unique needs of my 1970s home. Their attention to detail and customer care truly stood out! I feel confident recommending Genuine Texas Exteriors to my friends and neighbors.
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Zdena Pomeroy
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I can highly recommend Genuine Texas Exteriors. They promptly responded with a visit to inspect our old roof, explained the options and procedure how to replace it. The materials arrived on time, as did the crew the next day. They were careful to cover the AC and flower beds and after installation cleaned up the debris and nails. All the personnel including the foreman were knowledgeable and easy to communicate with. Their pricing was very reasonable and they are manufacture-certified for the product we ordered which saved us on home insurance.
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Larisa Von Schimmelmann
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They did an awesome job! They replaced the siding and what was damaged inside when they opened the siding: studs, insulation and the cable that was wrapped around the house. They replaced the doors (now we actually have the doors that are working great and looking amazing). They painted the whole house, doors, cleaned up around the house. The communication was great and the team was hardworking.
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Chelsea Walker
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"Genuine Texas Exteriors did an AMAZING job on our new metal roof and siding. The finished product looks incredible, and the quality exceeded our expectations. The team was trustworthy, easy to work with, and always kept the lines of communication open throughout the project. They made the entire process smooth and stress-free. We would absolutely recommend them to anyone looking for a reliable roofing and siding contractor!"
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Gene Grottke
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Excellent service and professional. Mike is very informative about Malarkey shingles and how the install will be done. The workers were very nice and did great work on the installation. The cleanup was amazing. There is a lot of mess from removing and installing a roof. Boy, my wife and I were shocked to see how good a job they did cleaning up. Some of our flower beds looked better after their cleanup than before.The cost of this project was very competitive. Would recommend Genuine Texas Exteriors to anyone for the quality of product, workmanship, and customer service.
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Korrie Bartels
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Michael and his team did an amazing job! We recently had all of our siding replaced on our 30+ year old house that still had it's original siding. They were upfront with pricing, easy to work with, and extremely professional. His contractors were thorough and efficient - completing the job ahead of schedule. Most of all, I liked that Genuine Texas Exteriors doesn't line item every little thing and drive the cost up - they included everything you needed to have a watertight, good looking home.
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Jules Kabamba
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Genuine Texas Interiors, arrived early and were able to inspect the roof due to storm damage and repaired the damage efficiently and quickly. Job well done!
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Drew Glapa
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We had a great experience with Genuine Texas Exteriors. Sam and Michael were both fantastic to work with throughout the entire project. They were responsive, professional, and took the time to answer questions and address concerns along the way. The installation crew was polite, hardworking, and did excellent work. They kept the job site clean and were respectful of our property. What really stood out was their willingness to work with me on several special requests related to critter prevention and some unique details around our home's exterior. They were flexible, listened to what I was trying to accomplish, and made sure those concerns were addressed. Overall, we're very happy with the quality of the work and the customer service. I would definitely recommend Genuine Texas Exteriors to anyone looking for siding or exterior home improvements.

Helpful Tips

  • Avoid wire brushes or abrasive scrubbing pads, as they can scratch or damage your siding.
  • Never use high-pressure settings on a power washer; it can force water behind the siding, leading to long-term damage and the need for siding replacement.
  • Regularly clean your Masonite siding to prevent dirt, mold, and mildew buildup.

By following these steps and maintaining regular care, your Masonite siding can stay in top shape, protecting your home for years to come. We hope this helps ensure your Masonite siding withstands the test of time.

If you need siding installation services or an exterior siding installation in Austin due to issues like warping, swelling, or rotting, we’re here to help. Working with a reliable siding installation company is crucial to ensuring quality, long-lasting results. As one of the leading siding contractors in Austin, TX, we offer everything from smaller chimney siding replacements to full home siding replacements. Whether you’re looking for siding replacement company services or need help with windows and siding replacement, it’s essential to work with a professional team. Reach out to our trusted siding installation company in Austin to get the job done right and protect your home from water damage.

Sincerely,
Genuine Texas Exteriors
(512) 745-5676

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Central Texas Siding Services

We service all of Central Texas, including but not limited to: Georgetown, South Austin, Dripping Springs, Round Rock, Bee Cave, North Austin, San Marcos, Lakeway, Cedar Park, Wimberley, Austin, Jonestown, Pflugerville, Buda, Leander, Bastrop, Kyle, Manchaca, Hutto, New Braunfels, Manor, San Antonio, and beyond. Please reach out for all your siding installation, siding replacement, and siding repair needs!

Your Masonite Siding Has a Expiry Date — Is Yours Past It?

Cracked, swollen, or peeling siding isn’t just an eyesore — it’s an open invitation for moisture, pests, and costly structural damage. Don’t wait until the damage spreads. Genuine Texas Exteriors is Central Texas’s trusted siding replacement team, ready to upgrade your home with premium James Hardie fiber cement siding that outlasts and outperforms Masonite in every way. Call us at 512-745-5676 or stop by our Austin office to book your free siding consultation today!

Conclusion

Regular maintenance of your Masonite siding is key to extending its lifespan and protecting your home from costly water damage. With simple steps like cleaning, inspecting, and resealing, you can delay the need for a full replacement and keep your home looking its best. However, if you notice signs of deterioration such as swelling, warping, or rotting, it’s important to act quickly and consult a trusted siding replacement company. At Genuine Texas Exteriors, we specialize in professional siding replacement in Austin, TX, and are here to help you transition to long-lasting, durable materials like James Hardie siding when the time comes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Is Masonite Siding Made Of?

Masonite siding is made from wood fibers, wax, and resin, making it durable but prone to moisture damage if not properly sealed or maintained.

How Do I Know If My Masonite Siding Needs To Be Replaced?

Look for signs like warping, swelling, cracking, or soft spots. These usually indicate trapped moisture or rot.

Can I Pressure Wash Masonite Siding?

Yes, but use low pressure (1,200–1,500 psi) and keep the nozzle angled downward at least 3–4 feet away to avoid forcing water behind the siding.

What’s The Best Alternative To Masonite Siding?

James Hardie fiber cement siding is a popular, more durable replacement option due to its resistance to moisture, pests, and fire.

How Often Should I Clean Or Inspect My Masonite Siding?

Inspect and clean your siding at least once or twice a year—especially after heavy rain or storms—to catch issues early and extend its lifespan.

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