How to Maintain Aluminium Cladding?
Aluminium cladding offers both beauty and durability with minimal upkeep. To keep your aluminium wall cladding looking its best for years to come, regular cleaning and proper cladding maintenance are key. Below is a guide on how to maintain your aluminium cladding panels and what to do if they ever need repairs or replacement.
Caring for Your Aluminium Wall Cladding
The great thing about high-quality aluminium cladding is that it's low-maintenance and boasts a long lifespan. Routine cleaning methods are usually all that’s required to keep it in pristine condition, protecting both its aesthetic appeal and its durability. Here’s how to care for your aluminium wall panels:
- General Cleaning: Most of the time, simply using clean water with a garden hose or pressure washer will remove any surface dirt, dust, or grime from your aluminium wall cladding. This simple approach ensures the longevity of the cladding surface without causing any damage to the powder coating.
- For Heavier Cleaning: Use a soft cloth, sponge, or a car washing brush with soft bristles to gently scrub the surface. Avoid using stiff-bristled brushes or harsh chemicals, as they may scratch or damage the finish of the aluminium cladding. Opt for mild cleaning products instead.
- Dealing with Industrial Area Grime: If you live in an industrial area where sediment and grime buildup is more common, clean the cladding with a mild detergent (PH 6-7, such as car soap). Be sure to follow all precautionary instructions on the cleaning agents you use, and protect any nearby plants from direct contact with these cleaning products.
- Rinse Thoroughly: After the cleaning process, always rinse the cladding with clean water before the detergent dries. This will prevent any streaks or residue from sticking to the cladding surface, which helps maintain the aesthetic appeal.
Removing Stubborn Stains from Aluminium Cladding
In some cases, you might encounter stubborn stains on your aluminium wall panels. Here’s how to deal with them:
- Mild Cleaning Agents: Use a mild detergent mixed with water and a soft cloth or soft brush to carefully scrub away stains.
- Avoid Abrasive Cleaners: Don’t use abrasive cleaning methods or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the cladding's protective powder coating. Always choose cleaning products specifically designed for sensitive surfaces.
Replacing Damaged Aluminium Wall Panels
Despite their durability, cladding panels may occasionally need to be replaced due to damage or exposure to harsh weather conditions. Fortunately, replacing aluminium cladding boards is a straightforward task. Here’s how:
- Start from the bottom of the wall and remove each panel one by one, moving upwards until you reach the damaged board.
- Install the replacement board in the same way, moving downward to reassemble the wall.
Important Note:
Keep in mind that aluminium cladding may show slight colour variations over time due to weather conditions. If you replace a panel years after the original installation, there may be differences in tone due to the natural effects of the production process and environmental factors such as exposure to sunlight.
By following these cladding maintenance tips and cleaning methods, your aluminium wall cladding will stay in great condition, continuing to add value and beauty to your property for many years, regardless of weather conditions or surface dirt.
