Aluminium Gutter & Eaves Maintenance Guide

Comprehensive Maintenance Guide for Aluminium Eaves Systems

Alugutter products are engineered to deliver exceptional longevity and aesthetic appeal. By manufacturing our systems in-house, utilising premium materials such as 6063 T6 extruded aluminium and 1050 grade sheet metal, and meticulously hand-sanding items prior to applying Interpon D1036 architectural powder coating, we ensure superior adhesion and durability.

Consequently, our Alugutter roofline systems offer a 50-year functional life and a 25-year decorative life. To maximise the lifespan and maintain the pristine appearance of your architectural rainwater goods, regular maintenance is essential.

Recommended Maintenance Frequency

The frequency of cleaning and inspection depends significantly on the geographical location and surrounding environment of the property.

Environment Type Characteristics Recommended Inspection/Cleaning Frequency
Normal Urban/Rural Inland areas with low to moderate pollution and standard foliage. Every 12 Months
Industrial Areas with high levels of atmospheric pollution or airborne debris. Every 6 Months
Coastal / Marine Locations within 5 miles of the coast subject to salt spray. Every 3 to 6 Months
Heavy Foliage Properties surrounded by dense, overhanging trees. Every 6 Months (Particularly Post-Autumn)

Polyester Powder Coating (PPC) Cleaning Guidelines

Our factory-applied powder coating provides a robust, colour-fast finish (such as our highly requested RAL 7016 Anthracite Grey). To protect this decorative lifespan, adhere to the following cleaning protocols:

  • Routine Cleaning: Wash the external surfaces using a solution of warm water and a mild, neutral detergent.

  • Application: Apply the solution with a soft cloth, sponge, or natural bristle brush.

  • Rinsing: Thoroughly rinse the system with clean water to remove all detergent residue.

  • Strict Prohibitions: Do not use abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, strong solvents, or harsh alkaline/acidic chemicals, as these will degrade the powder-coated finish.

 

Alugutter RAL 7016 Anthracite Grey aluminium box gutter undergoing routine maintenance.

Addressing Scratches and Surface Damage (PPC Repair)

Our Interpon D1036 architectural polyester powder coating is applied in our factory to hand-sanded aluminium and cured at high temperatures. This process creates an exceptionally durable, continuous finish designed to withstand the elements for over 25 years.

Because of this specialised factory application process, achieving a flawless, invisible repair to scratched PPC on-site using standard liquid touch-up paints is extremely challenging. While the aluminium base metal will not rust if exposed, deep scratches can mar the aesthetic appeal.

The Reality of Touch-Up Repairs

It is important to understand that air-drying liquid paints (touch-up pens or sprays) have a different chemical composition to thermally cured powder coating. Even if the RAL colour match (such as RAL 7016) appears perfect initially, the touch-up paint will weather and fade at a different rate to the surrounding PPC. This means the repair may become more visible over time.

Repair Protocol

If damage occurs during installation or maintenance, please follow these guidelines:

  • Minor Scuffs and Transfer Marks: Often, what appears to be a scratch is actually material transferred from another object rubbing against the coating. Before attempting a repair, try cleaning the area vigorously with warm soapy water and a soft cloth.

  • Deep Scratches (Exposing Base Metal): If the scratch has penetrated the coating to reveal the silver aluminium beneath, the primary goal is to seal the area rather than achieve visual perfection.

    • Ensure the area is completely clean and dry.

    • Source a high-quality external grade architectural touch-up paint matching the specific RAL colour of your system.

    • Using a fine artist's brush, sparingly apply the paint only within the scratch itself. Do not "feather" the paint onto the surrounding undamaged powder coating, as this will create a noticeable patch due to the difference in sheen levels.

Important Advisory: Alugutter cannot guarantee the longevity or aesthetic result of on-site repairs carried out by third parties. Extensive damage to panels should ideally be addressed by replacing the affected component.

System-Specific Maintenance Procedures

1. Maintaining aluminium gutters & aluminium downpipes

To ensure your rainwater systems retain their maximum flow capacity (l/s) and protect your property from water ingress, undertake the following steps:

  • Debris Removal: Carefully remove leaves, moss, and twigs from the gutter channels. Ensure you do not scratch the internal base of the guttering.

  • Inspect Components: Visually inspect all union connectors, stop ends, and running outlets for signs of blockage or compromised seals.

  • Check Fixings: Ensure all rafter brackets and rise and fall brackets remain securely fastened to the structure. Aluminium is subject to thermal expansion; ensure the system retains its structural integrity while allowing for natural movement.

  • Clear Downpipes: Flush the downpipes with water to ensure there are no blockages within the vertical drops or swan necks.

2. Maintaining aluminium fascia and soffits

Our fascia and soffit systems protect the crucial roofline structure.

  • Surface Cleaning: Wash the bargeboards and box ends using the mild detergent method detailed above.

  • Ventilation Checks: Inspect all ventilation strips and over-fascia vents to ensure they are free from dust, insect nests, or debris that could impede airflow into the roof space.

  • Panel Alignment: Visually check that the thermal expansion gaps between panels remain uniform and that no cladding has become unseated.

3. Maintaining aluminium wall copings

Copings provide essential weatherproofing for parapet walls.

  • Surface Cleaning: Wash the parapet capping to maintain its aesthetic finish.

  • Inspect the Drip Edge: Ensure the drip edges are clear of dirt build-up, allowing water to shed cleanly away from the masonry below.

  • Verify the Secret Fix Mechanism: Confirm that the coping panels remain securely locked into their 3mm heavy-duty brackets and that wind uplift has not compromised the installation.

Frequently Asked Questions (Maintenance)

Can I use a pressure washer to clean my aluminium eaves system?

We do not recommend high-pressure washing. Excessive water pressure can force water behind fascia boards or compromise the silicone sealants used within gutter union connectors. Always use low-pressure hoses and manual cleaning methods.

Can the powder coating be over-painted in the future?

Yes. While our systems offer a 25-year decorative life, the aluminium can be successfully over-painted should you wish to change the colour of your property in the future. The surface must be properly degreased and lightly abraded before applying a suitable metal paint system.

Will the aluminium rust if the coating is scratched?

No. Unlike steel, aluminium naturally forms a protective oxide layer when exposed to air, rendering it highly corrosion-resistant. It will not suffer from the red rust associated with ferrous metals or the thermal degradation common in uPVC alternatives.

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