Anodised Framing

The life of an anodised finish can be greatly enhanced by the implementation of regular documented maintenance. Chemical attacks on decorative surfaces which aren't regularly cleaned become increasingly severe and eventually, may be impossible to restore.

A regular cleaning and maintenance regime is essential for two very good reasons:

1. To maintain a decorative appearance and to reduce any chemical attack, if applicable.
2. To remove dirt, grime, grit, atmospheric pollutants and iridescence.

The cleaning procedures may be broken down into three distinct categories:

1. Primary Cleaning

The initial cleaning that should occur after completion, to remove atmospheric dust, deposits of dirt, possible cement deposits, glues, etc.

2. Secondary Cleaning

Normally a heavy duty clean that is carried out on a surface that has been neglected for some time. This should be carried out by companies that specialise in the cleaning of facades, windows, doors, curtain walling etc. The most important criteria of an aluminium cleaning agent Is that it should not be toxic, have a pH within 5 - 8 and be free of fluorides, chlorides, or sulphates.

3. Periodic Cleaning

The cleaning cycle that should be done on a regular basis AFTER the primary and secondary phase. (In the case of a new installation etc. it follows after the Primary). The intervals of each cleaning cycle are dependent on the atmospheric pollutants, area, region, corrosive level, etc. for a particular region.

What You Should Do

• Protect exposed Aluminium surfaces until all wet trades etc. have been completed.
• Any cement or acid should be removed as soon as practical. This will prevent any chemical attack.
• When cleaning, wash down all surfaces with a neutral detergent and rinse thoroughly.
• Remove awkward deposits on anodised aluminium, with a suitable nylon abrasive cleaning pad or brush, plus neutral detergent, and then rinse.

To clean long neglected areas it is advisable to use proprietary cleaners specifically formulated for aluminium surfaces. These products contain residual waxes etc. and can substantially improve the appearance of worn or weathered surfaces.

Things To Avoid

• Use of wire brushes, steel wool, emery paper are NOT recommended under any circumstances.
• Mechanical damage from scaffolding, bad handling, etc.
• DO NOT allow strong acids such as Hydrochloric, Acetic etc to come into contact with anodised aluminium.
• DO NOT allow mortar or mortar cleaning chemicals to come into contact with anodised surfaces.
• DO NOT allow strong alkalis such as caustic soda, lime, etc. to come into contact with anodised aluminium.
• Anodised Aluminium should not be in direct contact with brass or copper.

Onsite Handling

To ensure that the anodised coating is not attacked by corrosive chemicals, a temporary protective coating can be applied in the form of a suitable non-yellowing lacquer, e.g. methyl methacrylate or cellulose acetate butyrate, or a removable coating or tape is recommended. Tape and stripable coatings should be easily removable and should not leave residues.