Tips for Polishing Aluminum Like a Professional
Aluminum is a widely used and highly purposeful non-ferrous metal. It is light in weight and easy to work with, making it a very popular commodity in countless industries throughout time. With this being said, you can understand why aluminum is so prevalent and found all around us. From bicycles to window frames, soda cans, airplanes, and more, aluminum is a highly versatile and valuable metal that has endless uses and benefits. When it comes to personal uses, aluminum metal is strong and resistant to corrosion, making it perfect for kitchen utensils, appliances, and other domestic applications.
Although strong and less likely to corrode, aluminum is lightweight and still vulnerable to certain wear and tear. This is why routine maintenance for aluminum is highly encouraged. One of the best methods for residential or commercial aluminum care is routine polishing. Continue reading to learn how to polish and restore worn aluminum.
Polishing Methods:
Since there is more than one method for polishing aluminum, you must first decide whether or not you are restoring or cleaning aluminum. Depending on the application, the process to polishing aluminum will vary. For example, outdoor furniture is commonly made from aluminum or contain exposed aluminum parts. Outside elements like salt from the air, car exhausts, precipitation, dust, and more, can cause wear and tear over time. By implementing routine polishing for outdoor furniture and accessories, you can extend the look and life of your aluminum. Aside from furniture, other items can benefit from regular polishing as well; like grills, metal decor, fencing, playsets, water fountains, and more. Also, indoor commodities made from aluminum can also benefit from a routine polish, like counter tops, sinks, plumbing fixtures, furniture, appliances, frames, decor, and more.
Aluminum Polishing Tips:
For newer aluminum items, a less-aggressive polishing method is all you need. Simply use a clean cloth, gentle dish soap (a mild liquid dish soap is fine), and warm water to delicately cleanse, dry, and shine the exposed aluminum surfaces. This includes counter-tops, plumbing fixtures, bathroom fixtures, and decor.
To restore or polish older aluminum, a store-bought product is generally the most effective method. You will mostly likely need a wool scrubbing pad as well. Both of these items can be found at your local home improvement store or department store. Be sure to purchase a good quality polish that not only shines, but also fills in scratches, surface vulnerabilities, and more. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for best results. Use this method for outdoor items, doorknobs, and cabinet handles too.
Discarding Old Aluminum:
If polishing your old aluminum is not something that appeals to you, you can simply discard it instead. But don't just toss it in the trash, sell it to a scrap metal buyer for an instant cash profit. Aluminum is priced per pound, so be sure to gather as much as you have. Just be sure to sell your scrap metal to a reputable buyer who uses electronic scales and pays cash on the spot.
