To protect a building’s visual appearance, even the most durable finished aluminum architectural products need to be cleaned at least once a year, and more frequently in areas with high salt concentration. Regardless of location, regular care and cleaning will help ensure the finished metal fulfills its warranty requirements, delivers its expected performance and enjoys a long lifespan.
Reference Guide
Routine maintenance and cleaning of painted and anodized aluminum products is not just a good idea, it also may be required by warranty. Many finish warranties advise following manufacturer-specific instructions, and the recommendations outlined in AAMA 609 and 610, Cleaning and Maintenance Guide for Architecturally Finished Aluminum.
The AAMA 609 and 610 document was recently updated and is published by the Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance (FGIA). This standard outlines industry-accepted methods, equipment and materials applicable for cleaning architecturally finished aluminum after a project’s construction and for its periodic maintenance.
When specified to meet the highest performance level, these durable painted and anodized finishes may only need a yearly rinse with clean water to stay looking their best. Review these do’s and don’ts, along with specific instructions related to the project and its finished material.
Cleaning Do’s
- Do remove any temporary protective films or peelable coatings as soon as possible
- Do integrate the cleaning of finished aluminum with other routine maintenance schedules
- Do vacuum dirt from sill and track areas before washing
- Do start work from the top to the bottom
- Do begin and end every cleaning stage by completely rinsing with clear water with moderate pressure and wiping dry with a soft cloth
- Do remove light surface soil with a mild soap solution that can be used safely with bare hands
- Do follow the cleaner manufacturer’s instructions, such as testing cleaners in a small, inconspicuous area before using in a larger, more visible area; and restricting their application to the direct area being cleaned
- Do remove medium to heavy surface soil by hand-scrubbing the stubborn area with a soft, nonabrasive cleaning pad in the direction of the metal grain with uniform pressure
- Do give extra attention to recessed and sheltered areas where dirt and debris collect
Cleaning DoN’Ts
- Don’t let mortar, cement, plaster, fireproofing, tar roofing, welding flux, sprays, other wet preparations or incompatible metals encounter the finished aluminum
- Don’t assume professional window washers will clean the finished aluminum along with the glass
- Don’t let cleaners run-down from glass and other materials, “puddle” on horizontal surfaces or remain on the finished surface
- Don’t apply a cleaning solution to hot metal or under direct sunlight
- Don’t use anything other than a water and mild soap solution when the finished aluminum includes a clear top coat
- Don’t use solvents stronger than mineral spirits or denatured alcohol to remove grease, sealants or other materials
- Don’t use strong acid or alkaline cleaners or organic solvents, or mix cleaners together
- Don’t use a razor blade, steel wool, putty knife, wire brush or abrasive pad, or abrasive rubbing
Check Your Warranty
Remember to carefully review the written warranty issued for each specific project regarding care, cleaning and maintenance. Coverage length for standard warranties on finished architectural aluminum products typically is:
- 10 years for 70% PVDF resin-based liquid painted coatings that are specified to meet AAMA 2605
(see sample) - 5 years for 50% PVDF resin-based liquid painted coatings that are specified to meet AAMA 2604
(see sample) - 5 years for Class I anodized coatings that are specified to meet AAMA 611
(see sample)
Bright or exotic paint colors, specialty coatings and powder coat warranties usually are handled on a case-by-case basis. Warranties for these may need to be requested prior to the project being finished to allow for a manufacturer’s approval.
Click below to download a PDF copy of Linetec’s “Care of Finished Aluminum Guide.” For questions about a warranty’s requirements, limitations or extension, talk with your architectural sales representative.
Click button to download PDF
