Cladding offers an extra protective layer for buildings, which can enhance the appearance of any property. While it’s a great addition to any home or building, you’ll want to make sure that you learn how to clean cladding to avoid the build-up of moss, grime, and dirt over time. This can damage the materials and lead to a less aesthetically pleasing first impression of your home, which is why cleaning cladding is so important. As cladding is made from various different materials, you need to ensure you are using the right cladding cleaners based on the material type. Keep reading as we share our top cladding cleaning tips and help you discover the right products and techniques based on the different types of cladding.
Metal Cladding
Aluminium, steel, zinc, and copper are popular choices for cladding due to their durability and modern appearance. When it comes to cleaning cladding made from metal, start by inspecting it for signs of corrosion, rust, or damage. Avoid abrasive cleaning methods that could make these issues worse. Use warm water mixed with a mild detergent, and then apply the solution with a soft-bristle brush or a microfibre cloth to avoid scratches. After this step, rinse the cladding thoroughly with clean water, which you can do using a low-pressure washer if you have one. To polish the metal and enhance its appearance, apply a metal polish to restore the material’s shine and protect against future tarnishing.
When it comes to cladding cleaners for metals, we recommend that you avoid acidic or alkaline cleaners. These can damage the surface of the metal and do more harm than good. It’s important that you regularly clean and maintain the material so that you can prevent the build-up of pollutants that can lead to corrosion.
Timber Cladding
Common types of timber cladding include cedar, larch, oak, or treated softwoods. To clean cladding made from timber, start by removing loose dirt and debris with a soft brush or broom. You can then create a solution of warm water mixed with a specialised wood cladding cleaner. Use a soft brush to scrub gently along the grain, and then rinse it with clean water using either your garden hose or a low-pressure washer. For a final step in the process, consider treating the wood. Allow the cladding to dry completely before applying wood oil, stain, or preservative for extra protection and to potentially reduce the time between future cleaning sessions.
Timber can be a challenging material to clean, so we recommend you avoid high-pressure washers, as they can damage the wood fibres. Regularly inspect the material for signs of rot, mould, or insect infestation and address these quickly with the support of cladding cleaning services. This is one of the benefits of professional cladding cleaning as our team will be able to also inspect the cladding for safety concerns and any wear and tear to the material.
uPVC Cladding
Unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (uPVC) is commonly used for cladding as it is known for its affordability, low maintenance, and durability. To keep this type of cladding clean, you’ll want to start by wiping down the surface with a dry cloth or a soft brush to remove dust and loose dirt. Use warm, soapy water and a sponge to clean the cladding. If you notice tougher stains on the cladding, use a non-abrasive cleaner. Hose down the surface with clean water to remove any soap residue and reveal your clean cladding. Avoid abrasive cleaning tools or harsh chemicals that could scratch or discolour the material, as it can be sensitive when cleaning cladding with the wrong products. After cleaning uPVC, consider using uPVC restorer to protect against UV damage and give you the perfect finish.
Brick Cladding
Brick cladding offers a traditional look and is a very durable option. Industrial cladding cleaning is often used for this type of cladding, especially when you notice stubborn stains. Start by dry brushing the surface of the bricks, using a stiff-bristled brush to remove loose dirt and debris. You can then apply a solution of water and a pH-neutral brick cleaner. For tougher stains, use a diluted acid cleaner, but we recommend that you test it on a small area first. As with many of the other materials we’ve shared above, we recommend that you avoid high-pressure washing, as it can erode the brick or mortar joints. If you are using an acidic cleaner, then you’ll want to wear protective gear during the process.
By following the best cleaning method for each type of cladding, you can ensure your building remains visually appealing and structurally safe for years to come. Are you looking for assistance with your cladding cleaning? Contact us today for more information about the industrial cladding cleaning services we offer.