Chalky Aluminum Siding: How to Clean It
If you rub aluminum siding and your hand comes away white, that's chalking — the paint breaking down in sunlight.
What chalking is
UV breaks down the paint binder, leaving pigment powder on the surface.
Cleaning
A soft wash with a suitable cleaner and gentle brushing removes chalk and mildew, often brightening the color.
When to repaint
Heavy chalking can mean the paint is near the end of its life. Clean first, then judge.
What to avoid
- High pressure that dents panels or drives water behind them
- Abrasive scrubbers that streak the finish
When to call a professional
Send photos of your siding for a house wash quote. See our house washing service.
What customers say
"I completed a quote sheet online for an estimate to pressure wash my house. First- Clean Pressure Washing responded quickly. Chris called me to discussed what service I need. He looked at my house on the Internet so he was able to see clearly the size of the house. I also added my driveway to the cleaning process. I was given a quote, verbally and written, which I signed on a DocuSign. They communicated with me via text and were right on time based on the schedule provided. They had a truck that had the solution in it for cleaning my house, which I was really happy about because they didn’t use my water. My driveway was really messy and they did a very good job on my house and driveway. I felt the quote was fair and competitive. They got all of the mildew off the house. It looks great so I shouldn’t have any problem with my HOA for a couple years. Thanks so much, Chris. I really appreciate the service you provided!!!"
Karla J. · Google Review
"After I was blindsided by an HOA violation I quickly called 1st Class Pressure Washing. They were there the next day and cleaned the exterior of my house to perfection. I’m glad to know I’ll always have them on call for any needs going forward!"
David C. · Google Review
"1st Class did a great job cleaning the windows and vinyl on my home. The windows were in rough shape and they helped me remove the old screens and get all of the dirt and cobwebs that had built up. Would definitely recommend and use them again!"
Cassanora L. · Google Review
96 Google reviews from homeowners and businesses across Middle Tennessee. Read them all on Google.
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Related guides
- How to Clean Painted Brick Without Peeling the Paint
- How to Clean Vinyl Siding Without Damaging It
- How to Clean James Hardie and Fiber-Cement Siding
- How to Clean Stucco and EIFS Safely
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