Metals

Home improvement tips and techniques about Metals.

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Aluminum Characteristics

Aluminum is a light-weight metal with a bright silvery luster. Small amounts of other metals are added to aluminum to make harder alloys for most uses. Its affinity for oxygen makes it resistant to corrosion and attack by most chemicals. Most aluminum used in visible parts of appliances is lacquered or otherwise coated, anodized or painted.

Aluminum Outdoor Furniture--Cleaning

Aluminum does not rust, but it will discolor and develop a pitted or rough surface. Aluminum is affected by air pollutants. The surface will appear to have fine grit stuck to the surface, but it will not wipe away easily. If you observe aluminum storm windows and screens which have been exposed to weather for a couple years you will see what happens to aluminum outdoor furniture; the surface has oxidized.

Aluminum Utensils - Special Cleaning

Brighten aluminum utensils by cooking acid foods such as tomatoes, apples, or rhubarb or by boiling 1 to 2 teaspoons cream of tartar per quart of water OR 2 tablespoons vinegar per quart of water for 10 minutes in the pan.

Aluminum Utensils-Care

Alkaline foods or water and some dishwasher detergents may leave a dark film on the surface of aluminum pans. This is harmless but not pleasing to the eye. Salty foods allowed to stand in pans may pit the metal. Pitted pans are safe to cook in, but hard to clean.

Aluminum Utensils-Cleaning

Wash in warm water using mild soap or detergent. Soaking pans in strong detergents, alkalies, and alkaline scouring powders causes discoloration. Do not use even mild alkali, such as baking soda to soak aluminum pans. Do not use harsh abrasives or scouring powders.

Cleaning Aluminum

Use mild a detergent and warm water when possible. Alkalis, even baking soda, and especially stronger alkalis discolor aluminum. If trying a stronger cleaner, pre-test on a hidden place to be sure it cleans satisfactorily and does not damage the aluminum. Always follow directions on the product label for aluminum, EXACTLY.

Cleaning Aluminum Window Frames

If painted, use a solution of mild detergent and water, or a mild commercial cleaner whose label says it is safe for painted surfaces. Always rinse off solution. Wipe off excess water with a dry cloth. Do not use strong cleaners or scouring powder as these will damage the paint. If you plan to clean window frames, do it before cleaning window glass so solution does not spot glass panes.

Cleaning Brass

Keep decorative items dusted and clean. Wash in sudsy, lukewarm water, rinse and dry. Never use hot water on lacquered items as it loosens the lacquer; do not polish them or soak them in water.

Cleaning Copper

Most pieces of decorative, modern copper are protected by a factory-applied, baked-on lacquer. Only dusting and an occasional washing with lukewarm...

Cleaning Silver

Methods of cleaning silver should be determined by the valued placed on it--monetary or sentimental--and the design of the pattern. Silver with deeply "carved" patterns that are enhanced by an oxide or French gray finish should be hand polished with a high quality silver cream or polish.

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