How to Clean Keystone Aluminum

Keystone aluminum is anodized, a process that gives the lightweight metal the ability to resist corrosion and wear, according to the Keystone manufacturer's website. It is used in many products from drums to truck parts to awnings and siding. Because it is anodized, Keystone aluminum looks good for a long time, but it can still get dirty and need to be cleaned. Although specialty cleaners are available, simply washing the surface with soap and water will work. You may also have to use bleach to remove mildew in humid climates and finish with a sealant specially made for aluminum.

Broom or brush
Bucket
Water
Liquid detergent
Long-handled brush
Hose
Bleach
Aluminum sealer

Instructions

- 1
  Brush loose dirt off the aluminum surface with a broom for larger surfaces or a brush for smaller surfaces.
- 2
  Make a solution of detergent and warm water in a bucket or other appropriately sized container.
- 3
  Use a long-handled brush to scrub the aluminum surface with the sudsy warm water. If you are cleaning something small, such as the trim on a drum, use a toothbrush and a dish of sudsy water.
- 4
  Rinse all the sudsy water off the aluminum. If there is any mildew, mix a solution of 1/4 cup bleach per gallon of water in the bucket and use the long-handled brush to scrub the mildew with the bleach solution. Rinse the bleach off the surface thoroughly after the mildew disappears.
- 5
  Let the surface dry and apply an aluminum sealer according to the container's instructions.

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