Aluminium Shop Front Maintenance for Coastal Areas
Operating a commercial storefront in a coastal business district demands more frequent upkeep due to harsh environmental conditions. For Accend Aluminium & Glass, based in Roodepoort and Randburg, understanding the right maintenance schedule helps extend the lifespan of aluminium shop fronts while keeping your business looking professional and inviting.
Why Coastal Areas Increase Wear on Aluminium
Coastal environments expose aluminium to salt-laden air, high humidity, and abrasive winds. Salt deposits attract moisture, which speeds up corrosion, especially on edges, joints, and scratched surfaces. While aluminium naturally resists rust, chloride exposure in coastal regions reduces its protective oxide layer. As a result, frames deteriorate faster, mechanisms stiffen, and sealants weaken.
To better understand proper care methods, Accend Aluminium & Glass follows industry recommendations, including those shared in the Crealco Maintenance Guidelines:
https://www.crealco.co.za/assets/documents/compliance/Crealco-Installation-Cleaning-and-Maintenance-Guidelines-30-03-2019.pdf
Quarterly Maintenance: The Foundation of Coastal Care
Cleaning your aluminium shop fronts every three months protects them from long-term corrosion. Use mild, non-acidic detergent and rinse thoroughly with clean water. This helps remove salt crystals before they cause pitting or discoloration.
Accend Aluminium & Glass provides a detailed breakdown of aluminium maintenance practices on their website:
https://2ag.co.za
Additionally, glass should be cleaned during these sessions to avoid staining from mineral and salt deposits. Dirt in window tracks should also be removed to prevent friction and premature wear.
Biannual Maintenance: Protecting Mechanisms and Seals
Every six months, lubricate hinges, locks, wheels, and sliding mechanisms with a non-corrosive lubricant. Salty air dries out lubricants faster, so keeping moving parts clean and oiled ensures smooth function.
This is also the best time to check all weather seals, silicone joints, and gaskets. UV and salt exposure harden sealants, allowing water or air leaks. Accend Aluminium & Glass explains more about proper product care on their About page:
https://2ag.co.za/aluminium-glass-supplier-roodepoort/
Replace any worn components quickly. Early action prevents water penetration and costly damage.
Annual Maintenance: Professional Inspection
A once-a-year professional inspection gives your shop front a longer life. Accend Aluminium & Glass offers full assessments that analyse frame alignment, hardware condition, surface damage, drainage efficiency, and sealant quality.
Their team also handles aluminium frame restoration, reglazing, and shop front refurbishment. Book a visit through their Contact page here:
https://2ag.co.za/contact/
During the annual check, technicians look closely at joints and concealed edges, which experience the worst effects of coastal corrosion. They also test drainage systems to ensure water does not collect inside frame cavities.
After Storms or Heavy Salt Exposure
Coastal storms push salt deeper into frame corners. When this happens, rinse the shop front with clean water to stop salt buildup from causing damage. If sliding doors begin sticking, Accend Aluminium & Glass can assist with fast repairs to prevent hardware failure.
To explore other helpful resources and installation insights from the company, their blog section offers excellent guidance:
https://2ag.co.za/what-are-the-latest-design-trends-in-aluminium-windows-and-doors/
Practical Tips for Coastal Business Owners
Cleaning staff should use soft cloths or non-abrasive brushes to avoid scratching the protective coating. Keep records of all cleanings and repairs to spot trends early. Correct pH-neutral cleaning products keep the frames in excellent condition and prevent peeling or discoloration.
Most importantly, never ignore small scratches. These tiny openings allow salt to attack the underlying metal quickly.
Conclusion
Coastal environments speed up wear on aluminium shop fronts, but a clear, consistent maintenance schedule prevents long-term corrosion and structural issues. By following quarterly cleanings, biannual lubrications, and annual inspections, your storefront stays attractive and functional.
Accend Aluminium & Glass offers expert installation, maintenance, and repair services that protect your aluminium investment in harsh conditions. For service bookings, product information, or tailored maintenance advice, visit their website anytime:
https://2ag.co.za