Aluminium doors have grown to be a more and more popular option for homeowners in recent years due to their longevity and low maintenance requirements. However, like everything else, it occasionally becomes necessary to perform some tasks to keep your doors looking good and operating efficiently.
At JB Installations, we’re specialist window and door installers who offer steel-look aluminium doors in Cheshire, Macclesfield, and more! Our customers choose these doors due to their many benefits – including simple maintenance. If you would like maintenance tips for this low maintenance door option, keep reading this helpful guide that has been carefully put together by our expert team!
Why is Maintenance Important
One of the biggest draws of aluminium doors is the fact that they are very low maintenance, however this is not the same as no maintenance. Certain situations may require you to carry out repairs, cleanings, or more to keep your aluminium doors working as they should. Some of these situations include:
External Damage: From vandalism to accidental damage, there are many reasons why your aluminium doors could receive external damage.
Wear and Tear: Regular use can lead to general wear and tear. Hinges might need lubrication, seals may wear out, and moving parts could require adjustment or replacement.
Aesthetic Upkeep: To maintain their appearance, aluminium doors may need cleaning to remove dirt and grime. This is particularly important for doors with coloured or textured finishes.
Luckily, it’s rare to need special equipment or solutions to take care of your aluminium door maintenance, and our team is here to provide you with the information you need to keep your doors in top condition long after installation.
Clean Frames and Glass
Ensuring that aluminium doors and their frames are kept clean is key to their optimal performance. Fortunately, this doesn’t require any specialised cleaning agents. A straightforward combination of water, a gentle detergent, and a clean cloth or rag generally does the job well in keeping them in prime condition.
Nonetheless, it’s crucial to note that certain aluminium doors and frames are accompanied by specific guidelines from the manufacturer. In these instances, it is imperative to follow these provided guidelines, encompassing care and maintenance instructions, to ensure that warranties and guarantees remain in effect.
Deal With Scratches
Aluminium, known for its durability, can still occasionally experience scratches and scuffs. However, these instances are quite infrequent. In the event of minor surface marks, using a non-abrasive liquid cream or paraffin cleaner is often sufficient for effective removal.
Deeper scratches on aluminium frames may lead to a natural process of oxidation. Interestingly, this oxidation forms a protective layer over the exposed area, which helps to prevent further corrosion. Should there be a need to repaint these areas, it is advisable to seek the expertise of a professional.
Lubricate Locking Systems
Aluminium doors are equipped with locking mechanisms that are built for durability, thus necessitating minimal maintenance. Nevertheless, the application of lubricants can be beneficial in maintaining the smooth operation of these locks.
To ensure the internal components of the lock remain clean and well-lubricated, a practical approach is to apply a small amount of oil to the key prior to its use. It’s advisable to undertake this cleaning process every three months, which aids in keeping the locking cylinders in a clean and optimal condition.
Moreover, in situations where the doors are exposed to harsh external environments or extreme weather conditions, it may be necessary to give these components additional care and attention. This could involve more frequent lubrication and checks to ensure the locking mechanisms remain effective and resistant to the challenges posed by such environments.
Cleaning Solutions to Avoid
In the market, there are certain solutions that are known to have adverse reactions when used with aluminium, and their use should be strictly avoided to prevent damage. This category primarily includes potent solvents, which are characterised by their aggressive chemical compositions. These solvents typically contain elements or compounds such as chlorine, esters, hydrocarbons, and ketones. It’s crucial to be wary of these substances, as their highly reactive nature can lead to corrosion or other forms of degradation when in contact with aluminium surfaces.
Additionally, any product that is found to be exceptionally abrasive also falls into this category. These products can cause significant wear and tear, compromising the integrity and appearance of aluminium items. It is advisable to carefully read the labels of cleaning and treatment products to ensure they are safe for use with aluminium and to opt for gentler, more aluminium-friendly alternatives whenever possible.
Extend the Life of Your Aluminum Doors with Our Expert Maintenance Plan
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your aluminum doors, we highly recommend signing up for our 2-year expert maintenance service. This specialized plan is designed to keep all your products in top condition. Our team of professionals will thoroughly inspect and test all moving parts, apply lubrication where necessary, and perform a comprehensive spring cleaning. Regular maintenance not only extends the lifespan of your doors but also enhances their functionality and appearance. Join our service plan today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your aluminum doors are in expert hands.
Contact JB Installations now for more information!
If you would like to know more, or to arrange for our professional team to provide you with your own steel-look aluminium door in Prestbury, Manchester, Stockport, or any of the other locations we cater to, choose JB Installations today! Get in touch now to speak with a member of our expert team! Looking for more information on our aluminium steel doors? We also offer steel-look internal doors and have a blog dedicated to providing you with information on how these doors look great with any aesthetic!
