Railing News

How to Clean Aluminum Railings

Aluminum Railings | April 23, 2020

Knowing how to clean aluminum railings will help you keep your deck railings looking like new for years to come. At Vista Railings, we offer a wide range of low-maintenance aluminum railings that are perfect for outdoor spaces in all kinds of environments.

How to Clean Minimal Debris Off of Aluminum Railings

While seasonal showers will usually keep aluminum railings sufficiently clean, you can help with the cleaning process by quickly hosing down the railings. If your railing is slightly dirty or sprinkled with pollen, simply rinsing the railing with water and a damp rag or sponge will return the railing to like-new condition. In the event that your aluminum railing is covered in tree seeds or sap, you may need to conduct minor cleanings more often, as sun exposure and heat can make the sap harder to remove.

How to Thoroughly Clean Aluminum Railings

If your aluminum railing is covered in mud or debris that will not come off by simply hosing the railing down, using a mild, non-abrasive soap, water, and a damp cloth should allow you to easily scrub off the grime. When cleaning your aluminum railings, make sure to use a soft, damp sponge or cloth, as dry or very rough sponges can cause scratches. Once you are done cleaning the railing, make sure to rinse the railing down with water. For the best results, consider cleaning your railings on a cool and overcast day to prevent soap spots.

How Often Should You Clean Aluminum Railings?

In most environments, aluminum railings will only need to be cleaned about once a year; however, if the railing is located near the ocean, a pool, or a spa, it should be cleaned and inspected more frequently. Saltwater and pool chemicals can lead to corrosion, which can affect the functional condition of the railings. This means that aluminum railings near the ocean, a pool, or a spa should be lightly rinsed on a regular basis to reduce the accumulation of salt, chemicals, and dirt. Aluminum railings that are located in particularly dusty or grimy areas may also need to be washed more frequently than once a year.

If you would like to learn more about how to clean aluminum railings, or if you are interested in one of our aluminum railing products, please contact Vista Railings at 1-800-667-8247. Our team would love to help you select the best aluminum railings for your deck space.