How to maintain aluminum windows in coastal areas?
If the windows are new and have not yet been exposed to a corrosive environment:
Use a light soap and water solution to wash the windows, and rinse well.
Apply a light car wax to the extrusion. Do not apply wax without cleaning the windows first. This is especially important in corrosive environments where salt deposits may be sealed to the extrusion by the wax, allowing the salt to continue to do what it is known to do - - corrode the extrusion.
If windows are already installed and have been exposed to the elements:
Use mineral spirits to remove any salt deposits, dirt, etc.
Use a light soap and water solution to wash windows, and rinse well.
Apply a light car wax solution to the extrusion annually. Do not apply wax without cleaning the windows first. This is especially important in corrosive environments where salt deposits may be sealed to the extrusion by the wax, allowing the salt to continue to do what it is known to do - - corrode the extrusion.
In corrosive environments it is recommended that windows be rinsed regularly to reduce salt deposit build-ups and ease the annual cleaning process.
