Aluminium balustrades are known to require minimal maintenance, and it is for this reason that balustrades are widely used in residential as well as commercial settings. As compared to wood and stainless steel, aluminium is quite durable and requires minimum care. The Blog discusses the maintenance needs of balustrades, emphasising their benefits, and offers a practical cleaning guide.
Maintenance Overview
Aluminium balustrades, particularly those that are anodised or powder-coated, are low maintenance. Unlike wood, which needs periodic staining or painting to maintain its appearance, aluminium usually only needs periodic cleaning to retain its aesthetic appeal. This makes it a popular choice for homeowners and property managers looking to minimise maintenance efforts.
Cleaning Frequency
The recommended cleaning schedule for balustrades depends on environmental conditions:
Cities: Clean every three months to remove dust, grime, and soiling.
Countryside: Generally, six months is adequate since they are relatively far from pollution sources.
Industrial and Sea: Locations within 1 km of the sea or industrial areas should be washed with cold water once monthly and with detergent using warm water every six months.
Regular visual inspections also help to spot and correct potential problems before they become major ones.
Cleaning Process
To keep the aesthetic appeal of balustrades, a simple cleaning procedure is followed:
First Rinse: Rinse the surface using clean water. This loosens the dirt and debris.
Mild Detergent Application: Apply mild detergent solution with a soft cloth or nonabrasive sponge to the surface. Avoid using harsh chemicals, which can potentially damage the finish
Thorough Rinse: After cleaning scrubbed surfaces with a soft cloth or nonabrasive sponge, rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all remaining detergent residues
Drying: For a final streak-free finish, dry the surfaces with a soft cloth.
Special Considerations
Aluminium, in general, is low-maintenance. However, the following precautions should be taken:
Do not use abrasives that could scratch the finish.
Anodised finishes must not be subjected to severe solvents or intense heat since the coating degrades.
Beware of sunscreens and chemicals that can cause deterioration of powder-coated finishes1.
Comparison with Other Materials
Aluminum, in comparison to stainless steel and wood, has a very minimal maintenance requirement:
Stainless Steel: Must be washed frequently to avoid "tea staining," especially in coastal regions. This may mean the use of chemical cleaners more often.
Wood: Needs to be serviced annually, including sanding, staining, or painting to prevent weathering and rotting. This is time-consuming and labour-intensive.
Aluminium balustrades also don't rust and stay in good appearance for a very long period with the least maintenance effort. An anodising finish adds further to this durability feature since it offers additional corrosion and abrasion resistance.
Conclusion
Aluminium balustrades offer great integration of aesthetic beauty and lesser maintenance requirements. Cleanliness is easily done with lower frequency as compared to other materials such as wood and stainless steel. Property owners can ensure that their balustrades are always attractive and functional for years to come by strictly following recommended cleaning schedules and taking basic precautions. This makes aluminium an ideal choice for those looking to minimise upkeep while enjoying the benefits of stylish and durable balustrading solutions.
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