Aluminum is a great material for household fencing because it’s fairly inexpensive, it’s rust resistant and it will last as long as you need it to. However, that doesn’t mean you can ignore it completely after installation. Some basic cleaning is required.
We at Legend Fence Corp are great believers in proper maintenance of quality fencing materials. To help you out, we’ve put together a guide on how to clean an aluminum fence to keep it looking its best.
Before Cleaning
As with almost any other cleaning project, there are a few things to do before you break out the sponge and soapy water. First, cut back any vegetation that might be in your way. Unlike wooden fencing, aluminum fences won’t really be damaged by plants, but they make the act of cleaning much harder. If there are any plants you’re keen to keep, just try tying them out of the way for now.
Next, use this opportunity to give your fence a close inspection. Look out for any signs of damage, corrosion (particularly around screws or bolts), chipped paintwork, or loose railings. Replace any damaged screws before cleaning, and make note of any paint damage to be touched up later.
Quick Fence Cleaning
For a quick clean to just remove dust and splash marks, go over the fence with a hose. This should be enough to remove just superficial dirt and grime, but consider using a damp cloth to get rid of any tree sap or pollen.
Deep Cleaning Aluminum Fencing
At least once a year it’s worth giving your aluminum fence a more thorough cleaning. However, this really isn’t much more effort. Spray the fence with a hose to wet it, and then go along with a sponge and soapy water, starting at the top and working down. Be sure to use a soft sponge and just mild dish soap.
If you notice a build-up of a white, powdery substance, this is completely normal. It’s simply what happens to the fence’s coating over time. This will come off as you clean and can be polished up to a nice shine again.
After washing the fence, hose it down again. Finally, it’s worth paying attention to gate hinges and fence fasteners. Now is a good time to oil the hinges, which can be done either with a standard lubricant or some car or floor wax. Simply rub this into the hinges with a cloth once the fence is dry.
Conclusion
Cleaning an aluminum fence really is that easy! As mentioned, we’d recommend cleaning it once a year, ideally in the spring so it can look nice for the coming season.
If during your initial inspection you notice that your fence is looking a bit worse for wear, it might be time to fit a new one. Don’ worry, Legend Fence Corp has you covered for all your aluminum fence installation needs. So if you think it might be time to install a new fence on your property, then don’t hesitate to contact us today! Call us today for a free estimate at (619) 282-6000. We’re here to help.
