You might think that cleaning aluminum siding is a difficult task, but with the right approach, it can be a straightforward process.
By following a few simple steps, you can effectively restore the shine and cleanliness of your siding without investing in expensive professional services.
Aluminum Brightener and Cleaner or an Aluminum Acid Wash can be a huge help in this process.
Whether dealing with stubborn stains or just looking to refresh the exterior of your home, understanding the proper techniques for cleaning aluminum siding can make a significant difference in maintaining its appearance and longevity.
So, let’s dive into the best practices for achieving a spotless finish and preserving the quality of your aluminum siding.
To help you with this, you might want to check out our guide on how to clean aluminum.
1. How to Clean Aluminum Siding – KeyPoints
- To Clean Aluminum Siding you need to Wet the siding before cleaning, Pressure Wash it, Hand Scrubbing if required, remove mildew, and Rinse and do the siding
- Wetting the siding before cleaning is important, whether using a garden hose or a pressure washer.
- When pressure washing, start at the top and work downward, following the manufacturer’s guidelines for the machine. You might want to read this blog about the pros and cons of using an aluminum brightener to help you with your choices.
- Hand scrubbing with a soft-bristled brush and all-purpose cleaner is effective for cleaning aluminum siding.
- To remove mildew, mix a solution of bleach and water, apply to affected areas, scrub, and rinse thoroughly.
2. Wetting the Siding to Clean the Aluminum Siding
Optionally, you can use a well-directed stream of water from a garden hose to quickly rinse the aluminum siding before diving into the main cleaning process. When wetting the siding, ensure the spray is directed downward to prevent water from getting under the siding.
Start from the top and work downward, avoiding upward spraying to prevent water from entering the drain holes. This method effectively removes most dirt and grime, serving as an essential initial step in the cleaning process.
Always rinse the aluminum siding from the top down to ensure thorough cleaning without causing damage. This step is crucial, especially for old siding or areas with mildew.
If you plan to use a pressure washer, wetting the siding beforehand is still necessary to achieve a clean and polished finish, and using Pressure washing chemicals can also help you to fasten the cleaning process.
3. Perform Pressure Washing to Clean Aluminum Siding
Before you begin pressure washing the aluminum siding, ensure that you have properly wetted the surface to remove initial dirt and grime, and then select a pressure washer that allows for the mixture of cleaner and water for optimal cleaning results.
Start at the top and work your way downward, applying the cleaning solution evenly. Be cautious to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for connecting and operating the pressure washer.
Pressure washing is an effective method to eliminate stubborn stains, mold, and grime from aluminum siding. When tackling outdoor power washing projects, pressure washers are an essential tool for home improvement.
When you combine it with Pressure washing chemicals, it can be a huge game changer.
Always remember to prioritize safety and carefully read the instructions to ensure the proper use of the pressure washer for the best results in cleaning your aluminum siding.
4. Perform Hand Scrubbing to Clean Aluminum Siding
To begin hand scrubbing the aluminum siding, prepare a bucket of warm water with an all-purpose cleaner and grab a long-handled soft bristled brush for effective cleaning.
Start at the top and work downward, using the length of the aluminum siding. Work in small sections to prevent the cleaner from drying. Use a small amount of cleaner to avoid streaks.
If you encounter mold or mildew, focus on those areas using the scrub brush.
Rinse off the dirt, grime, and soap using a garden hose directed in a downward path. Ensure that you cover the entire surface and pay special attention to any remaining stains.
If there are still stains after hand washing, consider the next step.
5. Remove Mildew to Better Clean Aluminum Siding
If you’re dealing with stubborn mildew stains on your aluminum siding, consider using an Aluminum Acid Wash before scrubbing.
You may also want to look at our guide on how to use aluminum brighteners the right way to handle tough stains.
Otherwise, follow these steps to remove the mildew effectively:
- Mix a solution of one part bleach and four parts water.
- Apply the bleach mixture to the affected areas and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Scrub the affected areas with a soft-bristled brush.
- Rinse the siding thoroughly with water to remove the bleach solution and any remaining mildew.
Consider wearing protective gear such as gloves and eye protection when handling bleach to ensure safety during the cleaning process.
Regularly inspect the siding for signs of mildew and clean it promptly to prevent further growth.
This method can also be used to clean older aluminum siding.
6. Rinsing the Siding
If you’ve successfully removed stubborn mildew stains from your aluminum siding, the next step is to thoroughly rinse the siding to ensure a clean and streak-free finish.
Start by performing a quick rinse using a well-directed stream of water from a garden hose to remove most of the dirt and grime.
Direct the spray in a downward direction over the siding to prevent water from getting under the siding. Always work from the top down when rinsing the aluminum siding to prevent streaking and ensure thorough cleaning.
Avoid spraying upward to prevent water from entering the drain holes located under the lower portion of the siding.
Rinse the siding using a garden hose directed in a downward path to ensure all dirt and grime are removed.
7. Conclusion
Now that you’ve learned how to clean aluminum siding, you can keep your home looking great and well-maintained.
Remember, a stitch in time saves nine, so investing in a product like our Aluminum Brightener and Cleaner will not only ensure your home’s siding stays clean but also save you from costly repairs in the long run.
Whether you choose to hand scrub or pressure wash, taking care of your aluminum siding will ensure it lasts for years to come.
So visit most of our Product/Services pages to see what product best fits your needs. Happy cleaning!
