Maintenance

How to Clean an Aluminum Pergola?

A pergola is a garden canopy without walls. It consists of louvers that are connected at the top to the beams. Such a structure can be attached to a building or installed as a freestanding structure. It has two main purposes: to protect from the sun and rain, and to support climbing plants for those who are inclined. It is not only beautiful but also practical and modern. Pergola systems are made of aluminum, and therefore, it is worth understanding how to properly care for them to retain their original appearance longer.
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tutorial

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide

How to clean aluminum pergola? You will need basic equipment such as a ladder, work gloves, a soft sponge, a bucket of warm water, and microfiber cloths to clean your pergola. We firmly recommend avoiding high-pressure cleaners, as they can damage the paint and joints of your pergola. For that reason, we would advise using moderate pressure and placing the device at an appropriate distance from it.
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Step 1
Inspect your pergola and integrated gutter system
Look over your pergola for any potential problems, such as loose debris, leaves, twigs or anything else that may clog your gutter system that will prevent it from draining rainwater effectively.
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Step 2
Wash your pergola and integrated gutter system
Wash off any dirt or grime with a powerwasher and mild detergent.
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Step 3
Trim nearby foliage
Trim any nearby trees or bushes so that limbs don’t fall on your pergola and clog the drainage holes.
How to clean aluminum pergola? You will need basic equipment such as a ladder, work gloves, a soft sponge, a bucket of warm water, and microfiber cloths to clean your pergola. We firmly recommend avoiding high-pressure cleaners, as they can damage the paint and joints of your pergola. For that reason, we would advise using moderate pressure and placing the device at an appropriate distance from it.
Remember that an Aluminum Pergola is a durable, light weight, and incredibly low maintenance solution to your back yard or outdoor space.
Sincerely, Aluminum Pergola Team
principles

How can one clean the aluminum pergola structure?

How to clean pergola? Cleaning pergola structure is a straightforward procedure. This can be summarized in the following steps:

  • First, manually remove visible debris or use a broom to do so.
  • After that, clean the structure with a sponge soaked in cleaning solution. Gently wipe the pergola’s structure so that the surface does not scratch, then finally rinse it with clean water.
  • Lastly, use a dry cloth to wipe it and avoid water spots.

Dealing with Stains and Corrosion

In addition to regular cleaning, regularly inspecting your aluminum pergola for any signs of damage is essential. Look for areas where the finish may be worn or scratched, as these can become entry points for moisture, leading to corrosion. Check for loose or missing fasteners and any signs of rust or corrosion.

If you find any damaged areas, it is important to address them promptly to prevent further damage. Minor scratches and dents can be repaired with touch-up paint designed for aluminum. For more serious damage, such as deep scratches or corrosion, you may need professional help to repair or polish the affected areas of the pergolas.

Has someone ingested stains into the pergola? Apply a product intended for the materials your pergola is made of, such as aluminum or PVC. Voilà. Your pergola will be perfectly clean, and free from stains.

maintenance pergola
Tips

Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Care

Aluminum pergolas bring comfort and elegance to your outdoor space. However, like any other device, they require proper care and maintenance. By following simple recommendations, you can prolong the appearance and functionality of your outdoor pergola with slats or a pergola with a PVC roof.

  • Regular Cleaning: Dirt, dust, and other particles can settle on the slats or PVC roof. Use a soft cloth or brush to remove dirt and prevent it from fading and wearing.
  • Lubrication of mechanisms: Automatic mechanisms require regular lubrication. Check all moving parts and ensure they operate smoothly using special lubricants.
  • Checking sensors: Rain, sun, and wind sensors play a key role in the pergola’s automatic adjustment. Check them regularly for proper operation and clean them of dirt or insects.
  • UV protection: Although many pergola materials already have UV protection, additional application of specialized products can help preserve the colour and structure of your pergola.
  • Drainage Inspection: Drainage systems must remain clean and unobstructed. Periodically clean the integrated gutter system to ensure it is free from leaves, dirt, and other contaminants to ensure effective drainage.

Winter care: In winter, if there is snow, it is recommended to regularly clean the aluminum pergola from snow cover to avoid excessive stress on the structure. By keeping louvers open in the winter, you will also protect its integrity during severe weather. 

FAQ

How to Clean Your Pergola

Aluminum pergolas are innovative structures built to last and provide reliable coverage from the elements, however, if you opt for other products, you will see they require maintenance to maintain appearance and functionality. Here are some tips to help you extend the life of your pergola:

Regular Cleaning

Aluminum pergolas are exposed to the elements to accumulate dirt, dust, and grime. Regular gentle cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap will help keep them clean and shiny. Make sure you rinse the soap off thoroughly to avoid leaving marks.

Maintaining the Mechanisms

Louvered pergolas have complex mechanisms that ensure their functionality. Over time, these mechanisms may require maintenance or lubrication. Check your pergola’s instruction manual for instructions on properly maintaining these mechanisms.

Protection from Extreme Conditions

Although pergolas made of all aluminum , and are wind-resistant, they can still be damaged by extreme weather conditions such as damaging hail. If a severe storm is predicted, it is best to leave the pergola louvers completely open to avoid damage.

Inspecting and replacing components

Over time, some pergola components may wear out or become damaged. Regularly checking and replacing worn parts will help extend the life of your pergola and ensure its continued operation.

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