How Taconite Dust Ruins Siding and How to Fix It
If you live in Superior—especially in neighborhoods like Billings Park, the East End, or near the BNSF rail lines—you’ve seen it: a fine, reddish-brown film that seems to "bond" to your white vinyl siding or gutters. This isn't just regular Northern Minnesota dirt; it’s taconite dust.
Why Taconite Dust is Different
Taconite is iron ore. Because it is metallic and often magnetic, it doesn't just sit on top of your siding—it creates an electro-chemical bond with the surface. Over time, these iron particles can oxidize (rust), leading to permanent staining and "pitting" in your home’s exterior finish.
The Mistake: Blasting it with High Pressure
Many homeowners try to "blast" this red shadow away with a standard rental pressure washer. This is a mistake for two reasons:
Surface Damage: High pressure can drive these metallic particles deeper into the pores of your siding.
Etching: You run the risk of leaving permanent "wand marks" or stripping the factory finish of your vinyl, which can lead to thousands of dollars in replacement costs.
The "Up North" Restoration Process
We approach Superior homes as restoration experts, not just cleaners. To safely remove taconite fallout and industrial film, we use a specialized chemical restoration process:
Industrial-Grade Surfactants: We apply professional restoration chemicals (like Cleansol BC) that are designed to break the magnetic bond between the metal dust and your siding.
Soft Wash Application: We use a low-pressure delivery system to ensure your home is never at risk of high-pressure damage.
The 2-Year Guarantee: Like all of our work, our taconite restoration is fully insured, 5-star rated, and backed by our signature 2-year guarantee.
Protect Your Investment
Don’t let Superior’s industrial environment devalue your home. If your siding has that "red shadow," it's time for more than just a wash—it's time for a professional restoration.
