Why Aluminium Doors Are So Low Maintenance
Aluminium is inherently corrosion resistant, giving aluminium doors naturally long life. Quality doors, like those we supply at Haus Installations, are also often powder coated for extra durability. Together, this means that aluminium doors will last for decades with only the bare minimum of maintenance required.
Just light, occasional cleaning is all that’s needed to keep them looking at their best. So, let’s get into how to clean aluminium doors.
How to Clean Aluminium Doors
Regular Cleaning Routine
It’s advisable to clean your aluminium doors about once a month, or possibly more often if you live in a coastal region or an area with high air pollution, such as a city.
You’ll need:
- Microfibre cloth
- Mild detergent (dish soap is fine)
- Warm water
- Non-abrasive sponge
Method:
- Start by removing any larger dirt such as dried on leaves or cobwebs
- Fill a bowl or bucket with warm water and detergent
- Wet the sponge in the water and wipe the whole surface of the door
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water
- Wipe down the door with the microfibre to remove water marks
Note: always avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive applicators such as steel wool as these may damage the surface of your door.
Cleaning the Tracks and Glass
Many aluminium doors include glass sections and some, if they are sliding or bifold doors, will have tracks, which require more specific cleaning steps.
Tracks:
If your doors have tracks, clean them by first running a brush along the length of the track to remove larger debris. Follow this by wiping the track out with a damp cloth to shift dust and dirt that could damage or seize the mechanism.
Glass:
For your glass, grab two clean cloths and either a glass cleaner or a 50:50 solution of white vinegar and water. Spray the glass with your chosen cleaner and wipe it down with the first cloth. Then, wipe the glass again with the second cloth to remove streaks.
Protecting the Finish
Now we’ve covered how to clean aluminium doors, let’s look at how you can protect them too.
There are some products you can use to ensure your doors stay protected year-round. Coatings such as silicone sprays and moisture protectants can further shield your doors from dirt and damp.
How to Remove Scratches from Aluminium Doors
Identify the Type of Scratch
Before we get into how to remove scratches from aluminium doors, it’s important to identify what type of scratch you’re dealing with. They can largely be broken down into two categories:
- Light surface scratches, which can usually be buffed out with basic tools and a bit of elbow grease
- Deep scratches, which may require professional solutions
Removing Light Scratches
How to remove light scratches from aluminium doors:
Tools:
- Two clean, damp cloths
- Metal polish (or toothpaste in a pinch)
- One dry, clean cloth
Method:
- Clean the area using one of your damp cloths
- Apply metal polish or toothpaste in a circular motion using your dry cloth
- Wipe clean using your second damp cloth, rinse with water and dry
- Finally, you can also finish the process by applying a wax product such as car wax to protect the door surface
Fixing Deep Scratches or Chips
It is possible to remove some deeper scratches or chips yourself.
Tools:
- Fine grit sandpaper
- Matching touch-up paint
- Clean, damp cloth
Method:
- Lightly sand the area until smooth
- Wipe clean using the damp cloth to remove dust
- Apply matching touch-up paint to restore finish
- Leave to dry
- Again, you can also choose to add protection using a wax product if you like
For more severe damage, you may need to take your door to a specialist, particularly if it is powder coated and the finish is damaged.
Preventative Maintenance Tips
When it comes to how to clean aluminium doors and how to remove scratches from aluminium doors, the best strategy is always preventative maintenance. This will help keep your doors at their best for longer.
- Lubricate hinges and locks with all-purpose lubricant every 6-12 months
- Regularly clear any drainage holes to release trapped moisture
- Don’t slam doors or add unnecessary weight
- Check weather seals and replace as necessary
- Use doormats on both sides to prevent dirt scratches
When to Call a Professional
Aluminium doors are very low maintenance, and most upkeep jobs can be done at home using basic equipment. However, there are some circumstances that will require a professional fix, including:
- If paint or powder coating is flaking or bubbling
- If door alignment changes or movement becomes jerky or difficult
- If scratches are deep enough to expose raw aluminium
