Remove Scratches From An Aluminum Railing And Restore Shine To Its Surface

Remove scratches from the aluminum railing that borders the deck outside of your bedroom with the following steps. After the damage has been eliminated from the railing, restore shine and protect the aluminum so that new scratches do not form. 

Materials

• bucket of water
• sandpaper (various grits)
• steel wool pad
• aluminum polish
• buffing cloth
• lint-free cloths
• soapy water
• sponge
• clear lacquer (spray)
• drop cloth

Remove Scratches And Restore Shine

Use a piece of low grit paper to begin removing the scratches from the railing's surface. Moisten the paper in a bucket of water and move it in small circles over each scratch in the railing's surface. Apply firm pressure to the paper as you treat each scratch.

Once the surface of the railing feels smooth, lightly sand each one with a piece of fine grit paper that has been moistened with water. Again, move the paper in small circles. Wipe away any residue that has been left behind by the sandpaper with a damp, lint-free cloth. Inspect the railing to make sure that no more damage is present.

Restore shine to the railing with aluminum polish. Pour a small amount of polish on a buffing cloth. Press down on the cloth and move it back and forth across the railing's surface. Add more polish to the cloth as needed. Polish the aluminum until it has a cloudy appearance. Wipe away residue on the railing with a lint-free cloth. You should be able to see your reflection in the aluminum if it has been polished enough. 

Clean The Railing And Apply Lacquer

Clean the railing's surface with soapy water and a sponge. Rinse the sponge out with plain water and move it over the railing to remove any soapy residue that remains on its surface. Dry the railing off with a cloth. Place a drop cloth under the railing. Spray a thin, even coat of clear lacquer to the railing to protect it from scratches in the future. Wait several hours for the lacquer to dry. Add a second coat of lacquer if you missed any spots on the railing when the first coat was applied.

The railing will look great and add beauty to your property after you have finished all of the steps. To keep scratches from reoccurring, never place sharp or heavy objects on your near the railing in the future. Remove dirt from its surface regularly to prevent stains and the need for heavy scrubbing. 

For more information, contact a professional like those at Alberta Vinyl Decking & Railings Ltd.