Aluminum Care Secrets
How to care for aluminum balustrades, windows, doors and facades to keep them looking like new?
Aluminum is a material that delights both architects and investors. Why? It is durable, lightweight, corrosion-resistant and – equally important – beautiful. But like any material, it requires a little care. In this article, we share tips that will help you keep your aluminum elements in great shape for years. No secrets, no difficult terms – just practical advice.
Does aluminum really need to be maintained?
Many people think that aluminium “copes with itself” – and to a large extent this is true. But a small investment in regular maintenance yields huge benefits. Imagine balustrades or facades that look like new even after years. Sounds good? The key is simplicity: regularity and avoiding a few typical mistakes.
How often should you clean aluminum?
Here, the matter is simple: the more “difficult” the conditions, the more often. If you live in the city center, on a busy road or near industrial plants, aluminum is exposed to dust and dirt. In such places, I recommend cleaning once a month. In less demanding locations, once a quarter is enough.
Good advice: Don't wait until the dirt becomes visible to the naked eye. Regularity really makes a difference.
How to wash aluminum step by step?
We know that many people fear that cleaning aluminum is a complicated process, but in reality, you only need to follow a few simple rules to achieve excellent results. Here is a proven scheme that you can easily apply:
- Lukewarm water is the basis. Heat can damage the paint, especially in the case of dark colors.
- Gentle detergent – regular dishwashing liquid will work perfectly. Just a few drops per liter of water.
- Soft cloth or sponge – avoid wire brushes and sharp sponges that can scratch the surface.
After washing, rinse the surface thoroughly with water and dry it with a soft cloth to avoid streaks.
What to avoid? Harsh chemicals, solvents and washing in full sun. Sun can cause streaks and smudges.
What about moving parts?
Here we have one piece of advice: don't forget about them! Hinges, guides and locks in aluminum windows or doors are elements that also need attention. It is enough to apply grease to metal elements once a year. It takes literally a few minutes, and the effect? No problems with mechanisms jamming.
Seals – a seemingly small thing, but crucial nonetheless
Seals are an often underestimated but extremely important element of aluminum systems. Why? They provide tightness and thermal and acoustic insulation. Check their condition regularly - if you notice cracks, deformations or other damage, it is worth replacing them with new ones.
We know from experience that the best seals are the original ones recommended by the manufacturer. It is better to spend a few zlotys more than to worry about a mismatch later.
What about scratches or chips?
None of us likes the sight of a damaged surface, do we? Even minor scratches can lead to corrosion over time, so it’s worth acting quickly. Touch-up paint is a simple way to repair such damage – it’s easy to find in DIY stores or from the manufacturer. Once applied, the aluminum regains its appearance and is additionally protected.
Good advice: Touch-up varnish is not only effective on scratches, but also perfectly masks small chips, restoring the aesthetics of painted surfaces.
How to restore the shine of aluminum?
Sometimes aluminum loses its shine – this is natural, especially in difficult weather conditions. Fortunately, it is easy to remedy:
- Wash the aluminum according to the previously described diagram.
- If the surface appears dull, use a paste made of baking soda and water – this is a proven method for gentle cleaning.
- Finally, polish the surface with a polishing paste designed for aluminum. You can do this by hand or use a mechanical polisher.
Why does the Qualicoat standard make a difference?
If the aluminum in your system has been painted in accordance with the Qualicoat standard, you gain a huge advantage. The paint coating is not only resistant to corrosion, but also much easier to maintain. After experience with various products on the market, we can say with full conviction that it is worth choosing systems that meet this standard.
QUALICOAT SEASIDE at MORAD – durability that works
We paint our aluminum systems only in accordance with the standard QUALICOAT SEASIDE, which ensures their high resistance and longevity. With proper care, your aluminum systems can serve for decades – maintaining both functionality and beautiful appearance. Under standard conditions, aluminum windows last from 40 to even 60 years, and often longer. Maintaining aluminum systems is really not difficult, and the effects can be positively surprising.
The Most Common Mistakes I See (and How to Avoid Them)
- Strong chemicals: They are fast but damage the paint. It is better to avoid them.
- Neglected seals: A small crack can lead to serious sealing problems over time.
- Washing in hot water: This can accelerate the aging of the paint, especially on dark colors.
Summary – care is an investment
Caring for aluminum is primarily about regularity and avoiding typical mistakes. It's a small effort that allows you to enjoy beautiful appearance and functionality for many years.
If you are looking for products that combine durability, aesthetics and ease of care, I recommend Morad aluminum systems. These are solutions that I know and recommend with a clear conscience.
