How To Remove Oxidation From Hardi Board Siding

What’s up, guys? Cody from Southeast Softwash here. Today, we’re down in Auburn, Alabama, working on a pretty severe oxidation restoration project for a homeowner. The focus of the job? Restoring a heavily oxidized Hardy plank siding using our trusty Ox-Knox solution. If you’ve ever faced oxidation, you know how tricky it can be, but with the right approach, you can restore the surface without the need for endless scrubbing.

Let’s dive into the process!

Understanding the Oxidation

This particular home had recently been hit by a hailstorm, with the hail flying in sideways, causing visible damage to the Hardy plank siding. The oxidation here is no joke—thick and severe. But the good news is that under all that oxidation, the paint is still in relatively good shape.

Before jumping into the process, it’s important to understand that not every oxidized surface is the same. If the paint underneath has failed, you’ll need to remove the oxidation anyway before repainting. But if the paint is intact, like it is here, Ox-Knox can do wonders in restoring it.

Step-by-Step Restoration with Ox-Knox

1. Pre-Wetting the Surface:
   First things first, before applying any solution, we need to pre-wet the wall. This helps prevent the cleaner from drying out too quickly and ensures even application.

2. Mixing Ox-Knox Solution:
   For this project, we’re using a 4:1 ratio of Ox-Knox (4 parts water to 1 part solution). You could also use an X-Jet to apply it, but I prefer a pump-up sprayer for this job—it’s simple, effective, and gives you great control.

3. Application:
   We’re applying Ox-Knox in sections, working from one part of the wall to another. For this project, we’re tackling from the wall’s corner to about halfway across. After spraying, we let it dwell for about 5 minutes. This allows the solution to break down the oxidation.

4. Rinsing:
   After the dwell time, it’s time to rinse. We’re using a ball valve to rinse the solution off, removing the oxidation with ease. No scrubbing, no sweating—just a smooth, brushless restoration.

Results and Key Takeaways

If the paint under the oxidation is still in good shape, Ox-Knox can restore it and make it look fresh for several more years. But keep in mind, this isn’t a magic fix. Always manage customer expectations and make sure they understand that while Ox-Knox can work wonders, it can’t save failed paint.

And for all you painters out there—this method can save you hours of brushing and scrubbing with TSP. Whether you’re looking to restore the surface or prepping it for a repaint, Ox-Knox is a great tool to have in your arsenal.

Final Thoughts

Restoring oxidized siding doesn’t have to be a grueling task. With Ox-Knox and the right approach, you can achieve fantastic results with minimal effort. So if you’re facing a similar situation, give this method a try.

For more tips on soft washing, check out our Softwash 101 Class and take your business to the next level. Until next time, keep washing!

Ready to tackle oxidation the easy way? Visit SoutheastSoftwash.com and grab your Ox-Knox solution today!