Tips and recommendations for cleaning and maintaining aluminum
Today we are going to provide a series of practical tips for cleaning and maintaining aluminum. To keep it looking as good as new and functioning as well as it did on the first day, it is important to take care of it regularly.
The first step is to identify the surface finish of the aluminum element, whether it islacqueredoranodized. The method used to clean and maintain aluminum must be appropriate for the type of dirt and the frequency of cleaning. Methods should be tested progressively, starting with the mildest and moving on to the most aggressive, until the stains and dirt deposits are removed.
General
These tips apply to any aluminum surface:
- Never use acidic cleaners
- Do not clean metal when it is very hot or very cold to the touch.
- Cleaners containing organic solvents damage sealing materials.
- Before using strong cleaners, test first on a hidden area.
- Do not scrub with abrasives to remove stubborn stains.
Lacquered finish
Aluminum lacquering consists of applying paint to the surface of the aluminum. This finish is resistant to atmospheric agents and corrosion, although it can be scratched if not cleaned properly. This would be the order of action:
- Only water with low pressure
- Warm water and mild soap
- Warm water, mild soap, and a soft sponge
Anodized finish
The anodized finish consists of creating a layer of aluminum oxide on the surface. This finish results in profiles that are extremely resistant to corrosion, abrasion, and wear. The order of operations would be as follows:
- Only water with low pressure
- Warm water and a soft sponge
- Warm water, sponge, and mild detergent
- Gentle brushing and pressurized water
- Butanone-based solvents with soft cloth
