How do I clean the aluminum on my Mayfair® Aluminum Frame windows?

The following information may be helpful in determining a method of cleaning dirt and other substances from aluminum surfaces. Mayfair aluminum frame windows are available with a choice of baked on enamel finishes and some models are available in a natural mill aluminum finish. Both finishes require little or no maintenance. Airborne dirt, dust, smoke, salt spray and general airborne industrial solids can usually be removed by using a detergent and water solution with a soft rag or brush. Grease, oil or industrial solids that have built up for some time may require stronger solutions such as Mr. Clean, Soft Scrub, isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) or kerosene.

CAUTION: The use of sandpaper, razor blades, steel wool or emery paper will leave fine scratches on the surface and could be damaging to painted finishes. Sample testing of all cleaning solutions or methods in areas not generally visible is a very practical way to avoid damage to painted aluminum finishes.

Suggested list of chemicals used that work well: Mineral spirits, also called petroleum spirits, are less odorous and less costly than turpentine, but a little more unfriendly to the skin. Naphtha, can be substituted for both materials, but is harsher still. Lanolin cleaners usually serve the same purpose as mineral spirits and turpentine. They remove stains more slowly but do not attack the skin to the same degree. When alcohol is called for, denatured alcohol works best, but rubbing alcohol and even liquor will work.