It is essential to Clean Aluminum siding to maintaining the beauty of a facility and make it look fabulous like its first day of construction. Aluminum Siding is one of the most popular choices for building facades across Canada and the world. The durability and versatility of this cladding system are some of the many reasons behind its popularity. Aluminum sidings can last long if cleaned and maintained correctly. However, many homeowners who choose this type of cladding material do not know how to clean aluminum siding. For getting the most out of this product, it is required to invest some money and time to keep it looking like it is straight out of the factory. There are various methods available to clean aluminum siding, and each one has its unique advantages and challenges. However, all systems follow one principle, which is introduced in this article.
Methods used for Cleaning Aluminum Siding
Before choosing the appropriate cleaning method for aluminum sidings, it is essential to learn about techniques used for the purpose. The followings are a few of the practical cleaning systems that can wash the building’s cladding material thoroughly.
Rinsing: Like running a dishwasher on the rinse cycle before using the standard process to have better results, it is necessary to deliver a quick rinse before performing the metal siding’s primary cleaning. The rinsing can be accomplished with a well-directed stream of water from any source of water, especially from a hose. It is crucial to direct the spray in a downward direction over the cladding material. Suppose the spraying is done in the upward drift. In that case, it will cause water penetration under the material by gaining entry in the drainage holes located under the lower section of the aluminum siding. This can also happen in the ACM panel cleaning process. Most of the grime and dirt will fall be cleaned with a simple rinse. However, it is recommended to work from top to bottom.
Hand Washing: The easiest DIY method to clean aluminum siding is hand washing. By using this technique, homeowners can remove any dirt remaining on the building’s cladding. Utilize a bucket of warm water with cleaning solutions along with a soft-bristled brush and start scrubbing any grime existing on the siding. It is essential to clean with the length of the siding product, starting at the top and proceeding downward. For preventing the surface from drying out, it is better to do the cleaning in few meters from top to bottom and then do the rinsing. Wash dirt and soap off using a hose, directing the stream in a descending trail. If there are still stains on the product’s surface, it is required to use the mildew or pressure washing method.
Mildew: If there are stains caused by mold, it is practical to use a solution of one part bleach and four-part water and then spray the mixture on the spots. The cleaning method for removing mildew will often be required in more humid areas. Scrubbing with just a simple soft brush and water with detergents will not obliterate the mold thoroughly.
Pressure Washing: For more persistent stains, using a pressure wash to clean aluminum siding will be necessary. These machines can be obtained or rented at affordable prices from home improvement centers. Utilize a pressure washer that accommodated the mixing of the water and the cleaner together. Never use potent pressure due to the potential damages it can cause to the cladding material. This technique will remove every dirt, and it requires top to bottom workflow.
Choosing a Cleaning Method
The essential step to clean aluminum siding or other cladding products including ACM panels is choosing the suitable method for the material. As told, various systems can be used to complete the cleaning process with the best results. There are primary tasks to do before starting the process, which is as followed:
- Check for Rotting or Loose Panels: It is essential to remove or replace siding panels or recyclable ACP materials that show signs of damages or rots. Always nail and fix considerably loose boards. Always avoid using the pressure washing method until the fixing and repairing are done completely. Pressure washing can increase the instability and push water through the aluminum siding and soak into the building’s structure. If the homeowner is not confident with the DIY repair process, it would be best to contact a trustable siding contractor.
- Check the Aluminum Siding for Mildew: The second thing to check is to look for green, grey, or black stains while examining any grooves and the bottom of the cladding when the owner decides to clean aluminum siding. This step is essential for the area of the building that does not get much sunlight. For destroying and cleaning mildew, using the most potent cleanser is required. Even pressure washing will not prevent decay from growing back quickly.
- Look for Chalking on the Siding with Paint Finish: The last step for choosing the best method to clean aluminum siding is to put work gloves on and rub gloved hands on the surface of the cladding material. Consider using the pressure washing technique if there are signs of chalking, dirt, or grime on the gloves.
No comment yet, add your voice below!