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To clean powder-coated aluminum deck railing, rinse it with water, wash gently with a soft cloth or sponge and mild dish soap, then rinse thoroughly and inspect the hardware. Aluminum railing is low-maintenance rather than maintenance-free: occasional cleaning helps preserve its finish without the regular staining or sealing associated with wood railing.
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. Start with a gentle rinse from a garden hose to remove loose dirt, pollen, and grit. Avoid pressure washing unless the railing manufacturer’s care instructions specifically allow it, since excessive pressure can damage the finish.
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 rinsing leaves dirt behind, wipe the railing gently with a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge rather than scrubbing the finish. For an easy, gentle cleaner, mix a bucket of water with several drops of a non-abrasive, gentle dish soap. For stubborn pollen, bird droppings, or other marks, let the mild soapy water sit briefly, then gently wipe with a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge. Test any cleaner in an inconspicuous area first and follow the railing manufacturer’s care instructions. Avoid abrasive pads, harsh solvents, and mixing cleaning chemicals, which can damage the powder-coated finish. 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.
What Should You Avoid When Cleaning Powder-Coated Aluminum Railing?
- Abrasive scrubbers or steel wool: They can scratch or dull the powder-coated finish.
- Harsh chemicals or solvents: Avoid bleach, strong acids, paint thinners, and other cleaners unless the railing manufacturer specifically approves them.
- High-pressure spray: A garden hose is usually sufficient; pressure washing may damage the finish or force water into connections.
- Mixing cleaning products: Never combine household cleaners. Follow the product label and the railing manufacturer’s care instructions.
For most routine cleaning, mild soap, water, and a soft cloth are the safest starting point. If a stain persists, check the specific railing manufacturer’s recommendations before trying a stronger product.
Need Help Choosing or Caring for Aluminum Deck Railing?
Powder-coated aluminum railing is a durable, low-maintenance option for homeowners who want to spend less time on upkeep. Explore UglyDeck’s aluminum deck railing options, including Westbury styles, or browse our railing project gallery for ideas. If you need help choosing a railing system for your deck, contact UglyDeck.
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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