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Painting your shutters will void the warranty on the finish. Mastic shutters may be painted using good-quality exterior latex or water-based paint. Do not use oil-based paint. Do not sand off the original paint. Prepare the surface by thoroughly washing it with a good dishwashing detergent. Please do not use harsh chemical cleaners. Make sure the shutters are completely dry before applying paint. You can also follow the paint manufacturer’s recommendation for surface.
Painting your siding will void the warranty on the finish. You can paint aluminum siding with exterior latex paint. If any of the metal shows through your siding, those sections should be primed before painting. Pittsburgh Paints (PPG), for example, can mix paint to match your siding. Please follow their recommendation for surface preparation and application.
If you decide to power wash your vinyl or aluminum siding, please be sure to read your power washer instructions carefully before you begin. When cleaning, hold the power washer straight at eye level. Don’t aim the washer upward as the water may collect behind the siding. This collected water could leak, which can produce streaks, or could stay behind the siding, which can cause decay. Set the pressure using a minimum of 1,500 PSI and maximum of 2,400, using a 40-degree tip.
Do not exceed the recommended concentrations of cleaners. To do so can cause damage to the Product’ surface. Avoid skin and eye contact with the solution, and in all cases, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the use of cleaning compounds and solutions. Avoid the use of abrasive-type cleaners and strong solvents. Test any cleaner on an inconspicuous area before applying it to significant areas. To minimize streaking, always clean from the bottom to the top and follow with a rinsing of clear water. Excessive scrubbing is unnecessary and can be harmful to the Products, and may cause undesirable glossy areas over the finish.
In most cases, the average rainfall is sufficient to keep your windows and doors clean on the exterior. But, should your products need cleaning, we recommend the following procedures.
1. Frames and Trim – We recommend a mild solution of household cleaner, such as liquid dishwashing detergent may be used. Do not use harsh abrasives. This will void the warranty if harmful solvents are used.
2. Caulking – Caulking is considered maintenance and is the responsibility of the homeowner. It is not considered part of the product and is not covered under warranty. Cured sealant must be carefully cut away with a sharp-edged tool.
In most cases, normal rainfall is sufficient to keep your siding and trim clean. But, should your products need cleaning, we recommend the following procedures. Particular attention should be given to areas under eaves, porches, awnings and other overhangs that have limited exposure to the natural washing effect of rainfall.
1. Moderate Atmospheric Dirt – We recommend an occasional washing with clear water using a garden hose and soft-bristled brush (a long-handled, car-washing brush is ideal for this purpose).
2. Heavy Industrial Atmospheric Dirt – Wash in the manner indicated above, but use the following solution:
a. 1/3 cup detergent (Tide®, for example)
b. 2/3 cup trisodium phosphate (Soilax®, for example)
c. 1 gallon water
3. Mildew Accumulation – Mildew can collect on surfaces of all types of building products and is often evident on surfaces that have not been properly cared for and maintained. Normally, mildew will appear as black spots. Mildew is easy to remove by using the basic cleaning solution above with the addition of sodium hypochlorite as follows:
a. 1/3 cup detergent (Tide®, for example)
b. 2/3 cup trisodium phosphate (Soilax®, for example)
c. 1 quart sodium hypochlorite 5% solution (Clorox®, for example)
d. 3 quarts water
4. Caulking Compounds, Tar and Similar Substances – Use mineral spirits in reasonable amounts and apply directly to the foreign substance. Immediately after cleaning, rinse the area thoroughly with water.
The manufacturer of the Alside Excalibur windows has streamlined their warranty claim policy to increase the efficiency and the accuracy of all claims. Their easy step-by-step process can be accessed by visiting www.alside.com. Simply scroll to the bottom of the page and click on “Warranties”, then select “Online Warranty Claim” and follow the prompts. For any further questions or concerns, please call 1-800-489-1144.
