HOW TO CLEAN ALUMINIUM WINDOWS & DOORS

HOW TO CLEAN ALUMINIUM WINDOWS & DOORS

It’s natural for windows and doors to gather dirt and dust over time, even aluminium ones!  Though aluminium frames are relatively low maintenance and longer lasting than other materials, it’s essential to keep them clean to avoid any damage or need for repair. But it’s also important to follow the right steps to clean your doors and windows without causing any damage.

If you’re wondering about how to clean aluminium windows and how to clean composite doors, you’re in the right place. Read on for our aluminium cleaning tips and tricks, and the simple process we’d recommend:

How to clean aluminium windows

The methods you use to clean your aluminium windows could differ depending on how old they are and their exact finish. Aluminum frame windows that are newer won’t need as vigorous a clean as older aluminium windows that haven’t been painted.

Do you have an aluminium window with a powder coated finish? This is a great finish for windows as it is long lasting and doesn’t corrode easily. It also doesn’t require very frequent cleaning, saving you lots of time and effort in the long run.

If your aluminium window has a finish that is powder coated, it is best to clean it at least once every 3-4 months to keep it looking as good as new. The best way to clean it is as below:

Start your cleaning from the top and work your way down to the bottom of the window. This will help prevent any dirt spilling down into areas you’ve already cleaned.

To wash the aluminum frames, simply use soapy and warm water. There is no need to use cleaning agents laden with chemicals, as the harshness of such products could potentially damage the finish of your windows.

Dip a soft cloth, ideally made of a microfibre material, into the soapy water, and start the cleaning process.

Perform a slightly more intense cleaning action on any areas with stubborn dirt or marks, but there is no need to be too vigorous as aluminium windows are generally easy to clean.

Remember to clean any hidden spots and hard to reach places. Dirt and debris can often build up over time in all the little nooks and crannies of windows, making window drainage a little more difficult.

Once you’re satisfied that you’ve given your aluminium windows a thorough clean, dry them using a soft clean cloth for a sparkling finish.

When cleaning aluminium windows that are older, the cleaning process needs to be a little more intense and more frequent. The lack of powder coated finish on older aluminium windows means that they’re exposed and vulnerable to weather elements, and more prone to wear and tear. You may even find some areas that need repair while you’re cleaning, so it is a good time to thoroughly inspect your windows for any leaks or damage.

Try cleaning non-finished aluminium windows using the process below:

Soapy warm water is adequate for cleaning any surface dirt off even older windows, but special aluminium cleaners may be required for areas that need a more intense clean.

For any new cleaners that you purchase, check that they are suitable for use on aluminium frames. We’d advise testing them on a small area first before you carry out an entire clean.

Once you’re done cleaning, buff the aluminium dry by using a soft and clean cloth.

For aluminium frames that have become water-marked over the years from exposure to rain, you can simply polish to a shiny finish using water and fine steel wool.

How to clean composite doors

For aluminium composite door frames, you can follow the same cleaning process and tips listed above for aluminium windows. For the external parts of both, you can start by hosing down with water to remove all the surface dirt and grime.

After you’ve finished cleaning the doors frames, add shine by polishing with steel wool and lots of water. Keep in mind that the part of aluminium that has been exposed to the elements can start to rust over time, which make it much more difficult to clean.  For those aluminium doors and frames with a buildup of oxide, you may want to consider getting in touch with a professional aluminium cleaner.

Have you discovered considerable dirt and damage while cleaning your windows and doors? It may be time to think about replacing them with brand new aluminium windows that come with a powder coated finish. You’ll find that these are considerably easier to clean and will save you the time and hassle in the long run.

One comment on “How to Clean Aluminium Windows & Doors”Easton Memmott on October 9th, 2018 - 6:38pm

I like the tip you gave to use soap and water to clean and maintain aluminum objects, so there will be no grime build up. My office is getting a new aluminum door, so I am in charge of learning how to take care of it. I will be sure to mention that we need to use soap and water on our new door.