The bad news is, there really is no such thing as a fencing material that is completely maintenance-free. The good news is, your ornamental aluminum fence comes about as close to living up to this maintenance-free standard as a fence can get. However, while it won't take much cost or effort on your part to keep your aluminum fence looking great over the years, there are a few things that you should know about keeping up with the maintenance requirements of this type of fencing.

Don't Use Abrasive Cleaning Methods Or A Power Washer

If your aluminum fence accumulates dirt and other debris over time, you will want to wash this debris away using a very mild cleaning solution made up of nothing more than water and dish detergent. You should use a relatively soft-bristled brush to scrub any stubborn dirt and a standard garden hose to rinse the fence clean when you are done. The use of abrasive cleaning tools or a power washer can damage the coating of your fence and ultimately leave your fence far more susceptible to damage. If this coating has already been damaged as the result of improper cleaning methods, you will want to call a reputable contractor to assess the damage before you employ any cleaning methods.

Soap Must Be Rinsed Thoroughly

Allowing even mild dish soap to collect and dry on your aluminum fence can cause staining and damage to the fence's surface. For this reason, it is incredibly important that you always rinse your fence using plain water after cleaning it. To prevent the soap from drying before you can rinse it away, you should always tackle a small section of fence at a time. 

Keep Up With Gates And Hinges

Over the course of time, gates can begin to shift, making them more difficult to open or close. The hinges on these gates can also become dry and require lubrication in order to prevent damage. This is why it is a good idea to call your fencing contractor each spring in order to schedule an appointment to have your gate adjusted and your hinges oiled. This annual maintenance appointment also provides the perfect opportunity for your contractor to perform a visual inspection of your fence in order to identify any other damage it may have suffered and make the necessary repairs. While this maintenance can be completed on a do-it-yourself basis, it is rarely advised that you complete this task on your own.

For more information, contact a company that has services such as ornamental aluminum fencing.