If you’re working indoors, you should also put down a sheet or drop cloth to prevent paint from getting on your floors.
If you have sensitive skin, you should also cover any exposed skin with long sleeves and pants.
If the piece is irregularly-shaped, like a fence, make sure you get all of the curved areas as well. You could also use a solvent like mineral spirits. Pour some onto a rag and wipe down the piece. If you use a different cleaner, always make sure it’s safe for application on aluminum, or you could cause corrosion.
Anti-corrosive coating is available at hardware stores. Look for a product designed for aluminum use to avoid damaging the metal. Make sure to smooth the coating out if it pools in any spots. You want a smooth, even layer.
Don’t use spray paint on a windy day or it will get everywhere. Wait until the wind dies down. Spread out some extra protection if you use spray coating. Cover the ground with a sheet and hand newspapers or towels on any nearby structures.
The drying time may vary depending on the product you use. Always follow the directions that come with the coating.
If you’re trying to protect aluminum on a boat or anything that will touch the water, then you’ll definitely need at least 2 coats. You can add a 3rd one as well.
Look for any parts where the paint starts bubbling up or chipping. This is a sign that the metal is corroding underneath.
If you have patio furniture or a bicycle, for example, move them into the garage or shed if you have one. This protects them from the rain. If you live in a coastal area, then store the pieces in an air-conditioned area with less humidity.
You only have to do this if the objects are in the open. A mailbox under an awning, for example, is mostly protected from rain.
This is important after it rains, but also check the aluminum on humid days because condensation could build up on the metal. Wipe it down if you see any moisture.
If you have sensitive skin, you should also cover all your exposed skin. Wear long sleeves and pants, for example.
You could also use a window fan to pull fumes and debris out.
This is especially important if you have to remove paint. Paint stripper is extremely corrosive and will ruin your floor and kill grass.
Paint stripper is extremely harsh, so don’t drip it anywhere or get it on your skin. You probably won’t be able to clean the paintbrush, so use an old one that you don’t mind throwing out. Different products may need more or less time. Follow the instructions that come with the paint stripper you use.
If there is still some paint stripper left over, wipe the area with a damp rag.
You could also use a light cleanser like mineral spirits. This is a mold solvent but could still cause skin irritation, so wear gloves and wash your hands carefully when you’re done. In a pinch, plain water with some dish soap suds will work. Make sure any cleaning product you use is safe for aluminum application. Some chemicals can cause further corrosion.
If you have to clean a large area or the piece is very corroded, then you can also use a grinding wheel. Power the grinder on and press it onto the corroded areas. Rub it back and forth until all the corrosion comes off. Always use a mask, gloves, and goggles if you use power tools like a grinding wheel.
If the metal is wet after you wipe it down, then rub it with a dry rag to soak up the water. Otherwise it could corrode again.
