What You Need to Know When Cleaning Your Aluminum Awning

Aluminum awnings are a popular choice for windows and doorways due to their durability and low maintenance requirements. However, despite their low-maintenance nature, it’s essential to properly clean your aluminum awning every once in a while to maintain its appearance and longevity. Cleaning your aluminum awning is simple, but there are some things you need to know before you get started.

What Supplies Do You Need?

When cleaning your aluminum awning, there are a few supplies you will need to have on hand. Knowing what supplies you need and how to use them properly can save you time and energy, so it’s essential to plan and ensure you are adequately prepared.

  1. A soft-bristled brush or broom – This will be used to gently scrub away any dirt, debris, or mildew that has been collected on the awning. Be sure to use a soft-bristled brush or broom to not scratch the aluminum surface.
  2. Mild soap – A mild detergent or soap is best when cleaning aluminum awnings. Avoid using any abrasive or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the metal surface.
  3. Garden hose – A garden hose is necessary for rinsing off the soap and debris from the aluminum awning.
  4. Soft cloths – Soft cloths are needed to wipe away any remaining soap residue and excess water.
  5. Aluminum cleaner – An aluminum cleaner is an optional supply that can help restore the aluminum awning’s original shine. This is especially helpful if your awning has been neglected for a long time.

Do You Need to Remove Your Patio Furniture?

If you have a patio, you may wonder if you need to remove your patio furniture when cleaning your aluminum awning. The answer is yes. You should definitely clear your patio furniture before cleaning your awning. This is because the cleaning process can be quite abrasive, and if your furniture is left in place, it could be damaged by the cleaning solution or the cleaning process itself.

Removing your furniture before cleaning your awning is also essential because it ensures that all dirt and debris are cleared away from the awning before you begin cleaning. This will help ensure your awning is fully clean and free from dirt and debris. Additionally, if you don’t remove your furniture, it could get in the way of the cleaning process, making it more difficult to properly clean your awning.

When removing your furniture, be sure to place it in a safe location where the cleaning solution or process won’t damage it. You may also want to cover your furniture with a tarp or a sheet, as this will help to protect it from the cleaning solution and from any potential damage caused by the cleaning process.

How to Properly Clean Your Aluminum Awning

Start by setting up your ladder and thoroughly soaking the awning with your hose. This will help loosen any dirt and debris that has accumulated on the awning. After that, mix together some mild soap and warm water in your bucket.

Using the soft-bristle brush, scrub the awning in a circular motion until you’ve removed all the dirt and debris. Make sure to be extra careful around the seams and rivets, as these are the most vulnerable areas of the awning. After you’ve finished scrubbing, rinse off the awning with your hose.

Once you’ve finished cleaning your aluminum awning, you can take a few extra steps to help protect it. To start, you should apply a coat of sealant to the awning to help protect it from the elements. You can also apply a coat of paint to help protect it from UV rays.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning an aluminum awning is an important part of maintaining the longevity and aesthetic of the awning. It is important to remember to use appropriate cleaning solutions, such as a mild detergent or a special aluminum awning cleaner. Additionally, using a soft-bristled brush or a sponge to gently scrub the awning can help to remove dirt and grime. By following these steps, you can ensure your aluminum awning looks great and lasts for many years.

Get quality aluminum awnings in Richmond, BC, from Advantage Aluminum. We are the leading Canadian manufacturer of custom aluminum, glass, acrylic and polycarbonate awnings. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, we make sure to provide the best quality and service to our customers. Get a free quote today!