The building cladding system is essential for any construction, protecting against different exterior elements. One of the oldest metal building materials is Aluminum siding which many architects and homeowners still use. These metal claddings offer a lot of functional and practical benefits. They maintain their look for years without requiring regular replacement or repainting. However, aluminum sidings might accumulate grime and dust over time and can start having a worn or dirty appearance. Thus, cleaning aluminum siding is crucial at least once a year, and the best season to do so is fall.
The advantages of aluminum sidings sheets include tough resistance to water damages, heat, and rust, insect infestation, as well as mildew, mold, and other contaminants. These building cladding systems do not contract or expand with temperature changes or high humidity. Metal sidings with aluminum substances can withstand natural threats and seasonal elements. Additionally, other metal claddings like aluminum composite panels or ACM panels can help decrease heating and cooling costs since they are energy-efficient materials due to their insulating characteristics.
How to Maintain Aluminum Siding Panel
Aluminum siding is a smart choice for building cladding systems since it can last for the entire life of the construction. However, any building facade will get grimy as time passes. For keeping metal sidings looking new, there are a couple of primary and straightforward steps to take, which are:
- Cleaning Aluminum Siding facade panels at least once a year.
- Plan repainting metal claddings about 12 to 15 years before the paint finish become chalky.
Utilizing power wash for cleaning aluminum siding is both practical and challenging
Cleaning Aluminum Siding Procedure
Built-up mildew, hard water stains, algae, vegetation, dirt, and plant material can make the cladding material look ugly. However, this unattractive layer can be eliminated by cleaning aluminum siding with the proper techniques and equipment. Many homeowners and cladding cleaning services utilize power washers for cleaning the aluminum siding at its best. But for better care and maintenance, it is better to use soft washing methods.
- Cleaning aluminum siding starts with rinsing off the metal cladding panels. Utilize an angled nozzle with a medium pressure water level. Focus on one section of the building at a time and start cleaning from top to bottom.
- The cleaning operator must wear proper safety equipment, including goggles, gloves, and mask.
- Adding a cleaning solution or detergent to the soft or power wash tank is essential. Always read the instructions and guides on the cleaner packaging to be sure of the mixture’s precision.
- Turn on the cleaner or washer and start spraying and cleaning aluminum siding with the detergent. It is better to stand close to the cladding panels and utilize a low-pressure setting. Using low-pressure gives the cleaner ample time to work on stains and the building facades adequately. Power wash or high-pressure water will spray it off before it finds time to do the job.
- Wait a few minutes before rinsing and scrubbing the cleaner to allow it to do its job.
- After removing the cleaner, it is time to rinse the metal siding with water from top to bottom with a high-pressure setting and wide spray nozzles.
- Finally, the only thing in the final step of cleaning aluminum siding is to wait and let the aluminum cladding panels dry.
Challenges of Cleaning Aluminum Sidings with Power Wash
Most homeowners and siding service providers choose to clean aluminum siding with a power washing device, but it involves a few challenges. The followings are the challenges that homeowners should be aware of:
High-Pressure Causes Damage When Cleaning Aluminum Siding
The power washing system can be too harsh for most aluminum siding claddings. Too much pressure can do more damage and harm than good. Sometimes it can push the siding away from the structure of the building and damage the construction materials.
Detergent and High-Pressure Spray can Damage the Landscaping
Harsh detergents and bleach agents can damage the environment’s natural elements. Thus, it is better to choose water-based or biodegradable cleaning solutions which are more plant-friendly.
Aluminum Siding will Dry Before Completing the Cleaning Process
With detergents, aluminum sidings should be moist, and working in sections is recommended. Divide the cladding panels cleaning into particular areas to apply the solutions before the surface dries.
Tough Stains and Debris will Not be Washed Away
After going through the regular cleaning stages, there is a possibility to detect stains and dark patches on the siding’s surface. Scrub the panel with a soft-bristle brush attached to the pressure water for such areas.
Mildew and Mold are not Budging
After completing the regular cleaning stages, apply a weak bleach mixture, and then rinse the aluminum siding thoroughly.
Cleaning Aluminum Siding with Soft Wash is Better
Most of the challenges that come with the power wash method of cleaning aluminum siding can be avoided using the soft washing technique. This cleaning method is more delicate and perfect for cladding materials, including aluminum composite panels, wood sidings, stone, and stucco.
