When you have an acrylic or aluminum sign, you want to keep it looking great. A dirty sign could send the wrong message to your potential customers. You might think it is a simple task to clean these signs, but you should take precautions. Here are a few things that you should know about cleaning your aluminum and acrylic business signs.
Cleaning an Acrylic Sign
If you want to clean your acrylic sign, it is an easy process. However, there are a few things that you should avoid. First, you never want to use a cleaning solution that contains harsh chemicals, such as ammonia. Never reach for a household glass cleaner or one that contains a degreaser. Those cleaners might work around the home, but they can cause damage to your acrylic sign.
Along with that, you should never use a rough scouring pad to clean the sign. Make sure to avoid using a dry cloth as well. All of these materials can cause major damage. Those rags and pads can actually grind dirt into the surface, causing scratches on the sign. When that happens, it can destroy the sheen on the material.
Let’s look at the right way to clean your acrylic sign.
Washing Your Sign
If you want the best results, it is important to use lukewarm water with a soft, non-abrasive cloth. For those signs that are out of reach, use a pressure washer to clean them at a low setting. Some signs might have stubborn dirt and debris. With that, you can always mix in a mild detergent or soap with lukewarm water.
Drying Your Sign
You might be tempted to let the sign dry on its own. If you want a streak-free appearance, think about drying it with a clean, soft cloth. You will want to blot the sign to prevent any damage to the surface. For those signs that cannot be reached, your only option is to allow them to air dry.
Hard To Remove Grime
In some cases, stubborn dirt might not come off with a simple cleaning. For those situations, there are specialty cleaning agents made for acrylic. Before you spray your sign, always check that it is safe for use on acrylic. With these products, you can wash and polish the surface. As long as you follow the directions, there should not be any problems with your acrylic signs.
If you have an aluminum sign, you can follow the same directions. However, there are a few things to keep in mind for these specialty signs.
Keeping Your Aluminum Clean
It can be hard to keep your aluminum sign shiny and clean. There are so many things that can cause unwanted smudges and fingerprints on the surface. When that happens, your sign will not have that same striking appearance. However, cleaning is a reasonably simple task. Like acrylic, there are a few things that you should keep in mind for a spot-free finish on your aluminum sign.
Aluminum Sign Care
You will need to be careful when cleaning aluminum. There are a few tips to keep in mind for a great-looking sign. First, you want to select the right cleaning solution. Some cleaning mixtures can end up damaging your aluminum. Metal can easily rust, especially if you choose the wrong cleaning option. However, there are a few solutions that can help bring back the luster of your metal. Some of these options include:
Water
Water might be the easiest solution for cleaning off surface dirt from your sign. Plus, it is an inexpensive and readily available option. However, water tends to leave streaks. You can keep the surface streak-free by not allowing the water to dry on the surface. Take a clean and dry cloth to remove any water from the sign.
Glass Cleaner
There are several glass cleaners on the market, and they are all great options for your cleaning project. Any streak-free cleaner will work for your metal sign. These solutions can remove smudges and fingerprints from the surface.
Rubbing Alcohol
Rubbing alcohol is also known as isopropyl alcohol. You can take a small amount of the solution and place it on a non-abrasive cloth. Use that to wipe off any fingerprints on the metal’s surface. With this option, your sign will look brand new and shiny.
With any of these options, you also need the proper cloth for the job. Some materials can leave scuffs or streaks on the surface. Make sure to choose something labeled as non-abrasive. It is good to use a new cloth since old rags can leave debris and scratch the sign’s surface.
Things To Avoid
You need to be careful about what you apply to the surface. Always check the label and choose a solution formulated for aluminum. Some harsh bleaches and heavy-duty cleaners can damage your sign, leaving you with a less-than-professional appearance.
Use a Simple Technique
Now that you have the right solution and cloth, it is time to clean. Dip the clean cloth into the solution and get to work. Don’t saturate the fabric since that can leave behind surface streaks. A light mist from a spray bottle can also help you to spray the surface. Start from the inner part of the sign and work your way towards the edges. With this technique, you can remove all of that stuck on dirt without leaving streaks.
Clean Your Acrylic and Aluminum Signs
If you want a professional image, you need to keep a clean sign. With great-looking signage, you will present a strong brand image to your customers and community. These tips are guaranteed to keep your sign looking great for years.
Get a Professional Sign for Your Business
If you need a new business sign or want a few cleaning tips, reach out to the professional team here at Tupp Signs. We have been in business for over 90 years. With our experience, you will get the right sign for your business or organization. You can schedule a consultation by calling 302-322-1600.