Optimal Caring For Aluminum Storefront: Tips and Guides in 2023

Storefront doors serve as entranceways for commercial buildings and consist of aluminum frames with glass panels.

All in all, aluminum is a great option for commercial properties due to its durability, strength, and high resistance to any weather condition. However, like other doors, they get dirty too soon when exposed to high traffic. Due to the importance of aluminum storefront care, we decided to share this article with you to provide some useful tips that can help you extend the lifespan of your aluminum doors.

Caring For Aluminum Storefront

As a business owner, regular maintenance of commercial aluminum storefront doors not only ensures their longevity and functionality but also saves you considerable money in the long run and provides a safe and comfortable environment for your employees and customers.

Here are the steps for aluminum storefront maintenance:

Step 1. Inspect the hardware and door.

The first step in caring for aluminum storefront doors is to inspect the door and hardware for any damage, wear, and tear. Check for scratches, dents, or any signs of rust on the glass or frame. Don’t forget to check hardware, like hinges, handles, and locks, to ensure all work smoothly and are in good condition.

Address any damages or issues right away to prevent further damage that undoubtedly empties your pocket.

Step 2. Cleaning the hardware & door and lubricate the hardware

The second step in aluminum storefront caring is to clean it. To do so, use a soft cloth or sponge and a mild cleanser or detergent to clean the glass and frame.

Avoid using abrasive cleaners or other harsh materials because they can scratch the surface. Clean the hardware using a gentle cleaner and a dry cloth to remove any dirt.

The best, most cost-effective way to keep your hardware door smooth and functioning is to use lubricants. We recommend using a silicone-based lubricant to lubricate locks, handles, and hinges to keep them away from rust and corrosion and ensure they operate smoothly.

Step 3. Examine the weatherstripping and replace it if necessary.

Undoubtedly, the best way to seal the gaps between the door and frame and prevent air and water from entering inside is to use weatherstripping. However, weatherstripping, like other materials, becomes worn or damaged over time, which diminishes its effectiveness.

We advise you to check weatherstripping regularly and replace it if necessary to prevent other problems down the road.

Step 4. Keep maintaining the glass.

If your storefront has glass, always keep it clean and ensure it’s in good condition. To remove any fingerprints or smudges, use a soft cloth and glass cleaner.

If your glass is scratched or damaged, maybe it’s time to replace it. We recommend that if your glass needs to be replaced, do it as quickly as possible to ensure your security and avoid other difficulties that it may cause in the long run.

Other Tips for Aluminum Storefront Door Cleaning and Maintenance

Use water and mild soap or detergent to clean the railings. But be aware that for cleaning railings, using steel wool, acid solutions, or harsh abrasives isn’t recommended.

To maintain peak aesthetics, it’s mandatory to periodically wash the railing, particularly if your business is located in a harsh chemical environment. Don’t forget to wash the railing as soon as possible if you notice the accumulation of tree sap, insects, or other similar deposits on the railing.

Additionally, touch up any paint scratches you detect. It’s a good idea to wax the painted surface after washing it. And if necessary, use the touch-up paint to match the rest of your railing’s color.

Caring for Aluminum Storefront Doors: Cleaning & Maintenance Stainless-Steel Cables

To better caring for aluminum storefront door, regular cleaning of stainless-steel cables, exactly like the bottom rail, top rail, and post components, is mandatory. This ensures that your door maintains its peak aesthetic form. To do this, you can use several cleaners, like E-Z Clean, which can perfectly clean and protect stainless-steel cables.

A common question that many people may face is how frequently the product should be cleaned. Generally speaking, it highly depends on the location of your business. For example, if your business is located in a harsh chemical environment or near salt water, you’ll need to clean it more frequently.

Always keep in mind that for cleaning stainless-steel cables, using steel wool or harsh abrasives is not recommended as they may damage the product.

Bottom Line

Always remember that for proper functioning and longevity, schedule regular maintenance of storefront doors is necessary. It includes professional cleaning, inspecting for any damages or wear and tear, as well as lubricating the hardware.

If you need a professional maintenance service in Toronto, call us. Our expert team at Esna Glass is always ready to help you, regardless of time or date.

We also help you choose the right door based on your business needs and provide all the professional installation services you need.