How to Clean Powder-Coated Aluminum

One of the advantages of powder-coated aluminum is that it rarely needs maintenance. But what do you do when it does? Learn how to clean powder-coated aluminum, so you can keep your handrails and fences looking their best.

How to Clean Powder-Coated Aluminum

One of the many, many advantages of powder-coated aluminum is that it requires very little maintenance. Because it’s so durable, powder-coated surfaces don’t require the touch-ups that other decorative finishes do. Your powder-coated railings will maintain their glossy color and finish through rain, snow, and all kinds of other adverse circumstances.

However, while powder-coated aluminum doesn’t require any regular maintenance, life still happens. Handrails meet sticky fingers, fences meet mud and overeager pets. When these things happen, it’s helpful to know how to clean powder-coated aluminum. Luckily, it couldn’t be easier. With just a little bit of effort here and there, you can keep your railings looking brand-new for years to come.

Dos and Don’ts for Cleaning Powder-Coated Surfaces

DO: Read the Documentation First.

Powder-coated aluminum is extremely durable, and it is very unlikely that you could ruin it just by cleaning it wrong. That being said, it’s always smart to read the documentation that comes with your handrails and see if there are any specific maintenance recommendations you should be following. If you’ve misplaced the documentation, you can usually find it on a company’s website.

DON’T: Paint Your Powder-Coated Surfaces.

If your powder-coated aluminum is looking a bit dingy and you’re ready for a color change, you might be tempted to touch it up with some paint. However, you should know that powder-coating and painting are two different processes. Paint will not adhere correctly to powder-coated surfaces, and the final job will end up looking much worse than when you started. If you decide it’s time to re-do the finish on your powder-coated aluminum, work with a professional who knows how to touch up powder-coated surfaces.

DO: Inspect Your Powder-Coated Surfaces Regularly.

While powder-coated surfaces don’t require much maintenance, it will make it easier for you to keep them clean if you’re keeping an eye on them. Be sure to give them a good look at least once a month, and be sure to note any recurring problems.

DON’T: Use Harsh Chemicals to Clean Powder-Coated Surfaces.

If there’s a serious mess on your powder-coated aluminum, you might be tempted to pull out the big guns to get rid of it. However, you should think twice. While powder-coating is known for its durability, it’s still vulnerable to harsh cleaners and solvents. If you aren’t sure whether a cleaner is appropriate for powder coating, refer to the documentation or call the experts.

DO: Keep Cleaning Simple.

To clean powder-coated aluminum efficiently, the best thing to do is to keep it simple. Be sure to regularly dust your powder-coated surfaces with a soft cloth. If they require more cleaning, you can use mild soap and water. Rinse the surface clean, and then pat it dry with a soft cloth. If you’d like a little more shine, you can use wax to polish powder-coated surfaces too.

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It’s simple to make a plan for how to clean your powder-coated aluminum handrails and fences. However, if you have any questions, you can always give us a call. We’ll help you keep your powder-coated aluminum looking great for years to come.

Now that you’ve explored the ins and outs of powder coating and aluminum railings, are you looking for an expert who can walk you through purchasing and caring for a new aluminum railing? At Aluminum Handrail Direct, we are committed to providing high-quality aluminum handrails that are durable, maintenance free, affordable, and attractive. If you have questions about aluminum handrails or if you are searching for a handrail system that fits your needs, call us at 417-409-3179 or visit Aluminum Handrail Direct’s online store today. We offer handrails, wall mounts, mounting screws and anchors, touch-up spray paint, and much more. We look forward to hearing from you!