Want to know how to maintain your Alumawood patio cover so it looks like new for many years?
Maintaining the appearance of an Alumawood patio cover is simple because it requires much less effort than traditional wood. After all, maintenance free is not the same as zero maintenance!
Here’s the thing…
Homeowners can maximize the lifespan of their patio cover by adopting a few easy habits. This means they can enjoy their patio cover for a lot longer than 25-30 years – which is the expected lifespan of a well-maintained patio cover.
What you will learn:
- Proper Alumawood Patio Cover Maintenance
- Cleaning and Caring for Your Alumawood Patio Cover
- Year-Round Patio Cover Maintenance Routine
- Patio Cover Maintenance – Common Problems and Fixes
Why Patio Cover Maintenance Is Important
A beautiful patio cover made with Alumawood can transform any home’s outdoor space.
That’s a good thing.
However, even the highest quality patio cover needs to be looked after from time to time. The great news is that the maintenance requirements are extremely low compared to traditional wood. In fact, a recent survey found that 98% of industry experts agree that outdoor living spaces and features are essential for home value.
A patio cover that is well-maintained helps retain the value.
Before we jump into patio cover maintenance, it is important to note that Alumawood patio cover installation requirements must be followed to ensure the patio cover is built to the required standards. Professional Alumawood patio cover installations will meet all local building codes and engineering guidelines to ensure the structure is installed correctly from day one.
And that is important for patio cover maintenance because a patio cover installed with the correct slope, adequate fastenings, and appropriate drainage in place is far less likely to have issues down the line.
Cleaning and Caring for Your Alumawood Patio Cover
Cleaning an Alumawood patio cover is easy.
Here’s how:
All that is needed is a garden hose and some water to rinse away dust, dirt, and debris. In dry climates, this is all most homeowners do every few weeks.
But sometimes a simple rinse does not cut it…
If more dirt has built up, it’s time for a more thorough cleaning. Mix mild laundry detergent with water and scrub with a soft-bristled brush. Rinse thoroughly afterwards.
For stubborn stains or mildew, try a mixture of:
- 1/3 cup laundry detergent
- 2/3 cup trisodium phosphate
- 1 gallon of water
Apply with a soft brush, let sit briefly, then rinse. This will cut through most dirt without damaging the protective coating.
Important: Abrasive cleaners and harsh chemicals must not be used. This can strip the Aluma-Shield coating.
Year-Round Patio Cover Maintenance Routine
Seasoned homeowners know to perform routine maintenance on their patio covers when the seasons change.
Here is a detailed run-down:
Spring Inspection
Winter is over, and a general inspection of the patio cover structure is a must. Check for debris in gutters and downspouts.
Go over all visible hardware to see if any screws or fasteners are loose.
Summer Care
Summer means more time outdoors. Give the patio cover a good cleaning before peak season.
Inspect the surface for signs of fading or discoloration. While Alumawood resists UV damage better than wood, extended sun exposure can still have an impact.
Fall Preparation
The rainy and/or snowy seasons are around the corner. Make sure all drainage paths are clear and gutters are flowing freely.
This is the best time to perform a deep clean before winter arrives.
Winter Watch
In areas that receive snowfall, pay attention to snow and ice accumulation. Alumawood can withstand weather extremes, but too much weight is still a problem.
Remove heavy snow accumulations when safe to do so.
READ ALSO: Sustainable Landscape Design Ideas for Modern Outdoor Spaces
Patio Cover Maintenance – Common Problems and Fixes
Routine care and maintenance of an Alumawood patio cover can help prevent problems from occurring.
But that does not mean that they cannot arise.
Environmental Streaking
Buildup of black streaking due to environmental pollutants is a very common issue. It is more common in areas that receive less rainfall.
Cleaners specifically designed for aluminum gutters are fine for this job. Simply follow the directions on the product and rinse thoroughly.
Minor Scratches
Light scratches on the surface can occur over time. This is usually cosmetic and does not affect structural integrity.
Touch-up paint that matches the factory-applied colors can be obtained from the manufacturer.
Gutter Drainage Issues
Water that pools in gutters or overflows from downspouts is usually a sign of a blockage. Check to make sure that downspout connections are clear.
Most drainage issues have simple solutions, but persistent problems may be a sign of an installation issue.
Hardware Concerns
Loose screws and fasteners should be tightened as soon as they are noticed. Most hardware used in Alumawood patio covers is galvanized or coated with paint to avoid rusting.
What NOT To Do
The following are things that should not be done to the patio cover because they will only cause damage:
- Power washing at high pressure. This can damage the protective coating.
- Wire brushes or abrasive pads. These will scratch the surface permanently.
- Wax or sealants. The patio cover does not require these and they will only attract more dirt.
- Neglecting the drainage system. Clogged gutters and downspouts will lead to water damage over time.
The Long-Term Investment Perspective
With the right care and maintenance, an Alumawood patio cover can last homeowners for 25-30 years or more.
Compare that to traditional wood patio covers that require repainting or staining every few years. The time and money saved on maintenance quickly adds up.
Consider this:
Just a few hours of time each year versus constant maintenance. This is the reason why Alumawood has become the most popular choice of homeowners who appreciate their time.
Wrapping Things Up
Maintaining an Alumawood patio cover could not be simpler.
The basic formula for Alumawood patio cover maintenance includes:
- Rinse the patio cover with water on a regular basis.
- Clean the patio cover using mild soap when necessary.
- Inspect the patio cover seasonally for signs of problems.
- Repair any issues that arise promptly.
- Avoid the use of harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaning products.
Following these simple Alumawood patio cover maintenance guidelines and tips will ensure that your outdoor living structure will look great and perform well for many years to come.
It’s the kind of maintenance everyone loves – low effort with high reward.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Tips for Finding the Perfect Home for Your Lifestyle
