Powder-coated aluminum railing is a great maintenance-free deck railing option for homeowners, as it does not need the frequent upkeep and treatment required of more traditional railing materials, like wood or iron.
At the end of a winter season, when the weather begins to warm up, homeowners can spend more time outside enjoying their decks, instead of spending their time maintaining and treating decking materials. If you opt for this incredibly low-maintenance railing choice, preparing your outdoor deck for the warmer weather each year is as easy as a summer breeze. With 3 simple steps, you can seamlessly clean your entire aluminum deck railing, without even breaking a sweat!
3 Simple Steps for Cleaning Aluminum Deck Railing
1.) Rinse: Because aluminum is naturally a non-ferrous metal, it’s resistant to rusting, and its powder-coated finish adds an extra layer of protection that’s great for climates that experience harsh weather conditions, as we do in Minnesota. Because you don’t need to worry about rusting, cleaning your aluminum railing is as easy as hosing it down.
Throughout winter and into spring, your railings may collect salt, pollen, and other debris that can simply be removed with a good rinse. Take the hose, and rinse the tops and bottoms of all the railings. Be sure to rinse underneath the deck railings and in all the nooks and crannies to ensure you wash off any salt that may have accumulated on any exposed hardware, like screws, bolts, or hinges.
2.) Wipe: If you notice that rinsing isn’t removing enough of the debris, gently rubbing down the railings with a gentle sponge or rag will help remove it. For an easy, gentle cleaner, mix a bucket of water with several drops of a non-abrasive, gentle dish soap. In areas where you notice stubborn spots from pollen, birds, etc., you can mix a gallon of water in a bucket with 1/3 cup powdered laundry detergent and 2/3 cup gentle household cleaner. This mixture will remove more stubborn debris without stripping the powder-coating on your railings. No matter which cleaning mixture you use, it’s important to rinse the entire deck railing system down with a hose one more time to remove any soap and cleaner residue. Be sure to avoid using any abrasive sponges, rags or cleaners, as you can scratch your railings or remove the finish.
Over time, you may notice a chalky white finish to your deck railings, which is completely normal. This is caused from the powder-coated finish on your aluminum railings. If you’re looking to remove the chalky look, simply use one of the mixtures above and scrub off the chalky appearance and rinse it thoroughly. Then, take a dry microfiber cloth and polish the deck railings.
3.) Inspect: After cleaning your deck railings, it’s important to do a minor inspection to ensure the safety of the structure. By checking hinges, joints, and hardware for rust and inspecting for loose or wobbly railings, you can prevent your deck from deteriorating or becoming a larger issue. If you notice any loose bolts, tighten them up, or if you see some rusting hardware, change it out immediately. Doing a minor inspection every year will allow you to relax on your outdoor deck—knowing it is safe for you and your family.
Cleaning your aluminum deck railing is a quick and easy routine to add to your spring cleaning every year, and it will help maintain the durability and beauty of your deck railing, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor deck for years to come.
Got a Question? Ask Your Minneapolis Deck Builders for Help!
At UglyDeck.com, we love how low maintenance these railings are for our customers, offering more time to enjoy outdoor summer barbecue parties with friends and families. If you’re in the market for a new deck railing system, we highly recommend our Westbury Aluminum Railings for a beautiful, durable and maintenance-free railing option.
With several stunning railing styles and beautiful color options available, you’re sure to find a deck railing that complements your home, enhances your space, and provides safety for you and for those you care for most. Contact us today to learn more about aluminum deck railing and enjoy a free deck estimate.
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