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Robert Erickson's personal tips and help guide for the Handyman
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Home Improvement - METALS - ALUMINUM OUTDOOR FURNITURE CARE
Aluminum Outdoor Furniture--Cleaning
Aluminum does not rust, but it will discolor and
develop a pitted or rough surface. Aluminum is affected
by air pollutants. The surface will appear to have fine
grit stuck to the surface, but it will not wipe away
easily. If you observe aluminum storm windows and screens
which have been exposed to weather for a couple years you
will see what happens to aluminum outdoor furniture; the
surface has oxidized.
Care will depend on the condition of the aluminum:
Regular Cleaning
If surface is only mildly discolored, wash with soap
and water, to which some mild household acid has been
added; lemon juice, vinegar, or cream of tartar. Most
water is slightly alkaline, so do not add ammonia, TSP or
soda. Wash as needed during the season; wash at end of
season. (Remember the darkening of aluminum pans when low
acid or alkali foods are cooked..it blackens. When acid
foods such as tomatoes are cooked in aluminum, it will
become shiny.)
Special Cleaning
If surface is pitted, polish with a soap-filled steel
wool pot cleaner, rinse and dry. All steel wool must be
removed or it will rust and stain the aluminum. Wash and
dry.
There are also a variety of commercial cleaners used
for aluminum surfaces on boats and automobiles which may
help clean extremely dirty aluminum.
Do not use commercial cleaners on anodized aluminum.
A coat of auto wax, or a silicon spray will protect
aluminum from corrosion and pitting.
Colored Anodized Aluminum:
Use only mild detergent and water to wash anodized
aluminum. Rinse well. The anodized finish resists
corrosion.
From Mary Ellen
Delsipee and Isabel Jones, Previous s,
and the Aluminum Association.
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