How to Get Oxidation Off Aluminum Facsia

Aluminum fascias can beautify a home. Aluminum is very durable, and unlike some other types of home exteriors, requires little maintenance to keep it looking good. Even so, you should periodically clean aluminum fascias to remove any dirt and debris. Aluminum fascias, just like siding, sometimes develop white chalky oxidation residue caused by the sun's ultraviolet rays. A pressure washer will make short work of removing this oxidation and any other dirt or grime on a fascia.

Pressure washer
Garden hose
Large plastic bucket
Water
Powdered laundry detergent
Soft-bristle brush
Scouring powder
Ladder

Instructions

- 1
  Prepare the outside of the home for pressure washing by closing any windows and turning off the electricity to any power outlets which could get wet.
- 2
  Fill a large plastic bucket with about 4 gallons of water and mix in 1/4 cup of powdered laundry detergent.
- 3
  Connect the pressure washer to a water tap using the garden hose, turn on the water and power up the pressure washer.
- 4
  Spray the aluminum fascia with the pressure washer to remove as much of the chalky oxidation as you can. Start by spraying on a low-pressure setting to avoid damaging the fascia. Focus on cleaning a 3- to 5-foot-long area at a time.
- 5
  Place a ladder securely beneath the fascia close enough that you can reach it with a scrub brush.
- 6
  Apply a small amount of scouring powder, such as Barkeeper's Friend or Comet, to the fascia and scrub the sprayed area with a soft-bristle brush and soapy water to remove any stuck-on oxidation. Remove the soapy water by spraying the area again with the pressure washer. Start with a small area to make sure it does not discolor or damage the fascia.
- 7
  Repeat Step 6 until all oxidation is removed from the affected area. Continue cleaning a new area of the fascia at Step 4.

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