Tips on Cleaning the Aluminum Siding
Aluminum siding was known to be maintenance-free, rot proof, corrosion-resistant, waterproof – meaning there is less hassle for the homeowner and that it can be left to take on the elements of nature without diminishing its function. One however has to deal with cleaning the aluminum siding every once in a while.
In your plan to cleaning the aluminum siding, you can wash it annually. Others even opt to clean it every six months, but depending on your situation, you may have it according to your preference, as long as these are still visually appealing to one’s eye.
In cleaning the aluminum siding of your house, this would involve using water, detergents and a hose. If you are using a pressure washer, make sure to set it at low pressure or you will find your aluminum dented after spraying, or at other cases blown off. Be careful as well with your pressure washer so that no leak will result. It is advisable to also use a soft-bristled brush to apply the cleaning solution, and after which, you may then hose off and rinse the area with water.
Before cleaning the aluminum siding, make sure that all electrical power outside for your lighting or what have you out there is turned off. Prepare the area by taking out the items that are obstructing your path, and those that you may not want to wet with your cleaning process. Windows and doors should be closed and appropriate sealed so that unnecessary water will not come in.
The most common problem though starts with the paint on these aluminum siding. While aluminum may be strong enough to deal with whatever nature brings, the paints unfortunately erode under the power of the sun and the rain. When subjected to such for a good period of time, paints fades and delaminates. It chalks and even wears down showing already the bare aluminum.
After cleaning the aluminum siding, you may then opt to do a repainting job. It may be wise to hire a handyperson for this job or one who is qualified to do it, so that one will get a good result after painting. For reference purposes though, aluminum siding are to be sanded with fine-grit paper. A metal primer is then to be applied, and a finishing coat afterwards. It is best to buy a paint that contains the highest volume of acrylic paint resin since this type will last longer.