Aluminum Architectural Awnings (Awnex) – Care & Operation

Maintenance Procedure for Aluminum Architectural Products

The cleaning and maintenance guidelines form an integral part of The Awnex Dealer Network’s Limited Warranty for Aluminum Architectural Products (herein called Product) applied to aluminum extrusions and panels (herein called metal) for architectural products and must be strictly adhered to.

Cleaning and Maintenance:

Proper maintenance and servicing of the coated metal, which are a prerequisite for claims under this Warranty, require that it be cleaned a minimum of twice a year. In cases of an environment with more pollution, such as areas of concentrated salt spray and/or chemical fumes, areas present in or immediately downwind of a chemical plant or directly adjacent to the seashore or in a defined “fallout” area, the cleaning must be done in frequent intervals. It is required that all cleaning and maintenance is in accordance with the guidelines of AAMA Specification 609 & 61002 for Architecturally Finished Aluminum.

Restrict Cleaning to mild weather days. Surfaces cleaned under adverse conditions can become streaked or tainted and may not be restored to their original appearance.

Always test clean a small area first. Use clean water, mild detergents and soft non-scratching rags/cloths or cleaning pads. With any soap or detergent, the finish should be rinsed thoroughly and dried. If soil is still adhering after drying, the cleaning effect can be increased by rubbing with uniform pressure. Rinse thoroughly. Do not allow cleaning solutions to collect on surfaces or to puddle on horizontal surfaces, crevices, etc.

Greasy, oily or sooty substances can be removed with the help of naphtha hydrocarbons free from aromatic compounds or isopropyl alcohol. Remove residues from glue, silicone or adhesives tapes the same way and do so immediately. To prevent harm to the finish, aggressive alkaline or acid cleaners should not be used as strong solvents or abrasive cleaners can cause damage to the painted surface.

Exposure to detergents, joint sealants, or any other auxiliary products, such as glazing aids, gliding waxes, drilling and cutting lubricants may cause possible color and/or effect changes in the metallic effect of powder coatings and must be verified prior to application.

The detergents must not react for more than one hour. If necessary, the cleaning may be repeated after 24 hours.

To be eligible for the protection of this Limited Warranty, the Maintenance Record shall contain the following minimum information:

• Name and address of the party performing the inspection, maintenance and/or repair work;
• Date and duration of the inspection, maintenance and/or repair work;
• Precise description of the type and procedure of the maintenance and/or repair work;
• Precise information of the findings of the inspection and/or maintenance work;
• Information as to the type of repair and auxiliary materials used;
• Date, name and signature of the person/party performing and approving the inspection, maintenance, and/or repair work.

Surface cleaning and maintenance involves regular monitoring, cleaning, and damage repair. The more frequently aluminum is monitored and cleaned, the easier and less costly succeeding maintenance is.