Maintenance Tips | Keeping Aluminium Composite Panels Looking New

Aluminium composite panels (ACPs) are a go-to choice for modern construction, signage, and advertising. Known for their strength, sleek finish, and durability, these panels are used widely across both indoor and outdoor applications. One popular use is in hoarding panels for construction sites, property developments, and commercial branding.

However, just like anything exposed to the elements, aluminium composite panels need proper care and maintenance. Regular upkeep not only keeps them looking fresh and professional but also extends their lifespan and protects your investment. In this post, we’ll cover easy and effective ways to maintain aluminium composite panels, so they continue to look new for years to come.

Why Maintenance Matters

Aluminium composite panels are tough, but they’re not immune to wear and tear. Over time, panels may gather dust, dirt, grease, pollution stains, or even graffiti. Without cleaning, these contaminants can dull the appearance and damage the protective coatings.

Proper maintenance helps:

• Preserve the panel’s colour and finish
• Avoid costly replacements
• Keep your business or site looking professional
• Protect branding visuals on printed hoarding panels

This is especially important in public-facing environments, where visual appeal matters just as much as structural strength. Keeping your panels clean means your property, signage, or site perimeter always makes a strong impression.

Basic Cleaning Routine

Cleaning your aluminium composite panels doesn’t need to be difficult. A simple cleaning routine every few months (or more often for high-traffic or high-dust areas) will go a long way in maintaining their shine.

What You'll Need:

• Soft cloth or microfibre cloth
• Mild soap or non-abrasive detergent
• Bucket of lukewarm water
• Hose or spray bottle of clean water

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Rinse the panel with clean water to remove loose dirt and debris.
2. Apply the soapy water using a soft cloth or sponge.
3. Gently wipe the surface in circular motions. Avoid scrubbing too hard.
4. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any residue.
5. Allow to air dry or use a soft, dry cloth to prevent watermarks.

What to Avoid:

• Harsh chemicals (acidic or alkaline cleaners)
• Abrasive pads or hard brushes
• High-pressure washing machines (these may damage the coating or push water into the joints)

A good tip is to clean the panels on a cloudy day or in the early morning when the surface isn’t too hot, to avoid soap drying too quickly and leaving marks.

Handling Stains and Graffiti

While general cleaning works for most cases, some stains need a little more attention. These may include grease marks, bird droppings, tree sap, or even graffiti on public-facing panels.

How to Treat Stubborn Stains:

• Oily stains: Use a mild solvent like isopropyl alcohol or mineral spirits. Apply gently with a soft cloth.
• Graffiti or paint: Use graffiti remover designed for painted metal or composite surfaces. Always test a small area first.
• Rust spots (usually from adjacent materials): Use a non-acidic rust remover and rinse immediately after cleaning.

Make sure to rinse the area thoroughly after applying any cleaner to prevent long-term damage to the panel’s surface.

Seasonal Maintenance Checklist

Just like other external structures, aluminium composite panels benefit from seasonal checks. Different weather conditions can impact panels in different ways.

Spring:

• Remove pollen, mildew, and bird droppings
• Rinse off any salt left from winter

Summer:

• Check for signs of UV fading
• Clean off dust and pollution, especially in urban areas

Autumn:

• Clear leaf stains and sap
• Make sure gutters and overhanging elements aren’t leaking onto panels

Winter:

• Remove salt spray from roadside locations
• Watch for water pooling around base panels, which can lead to corrosion of fixings

Creating a regular seasonal checklist ensures that your hoarding panels and cladding stay in top condition year-round. It’s much easier (and cheaper) to do small clean-ups than to deal with large repairs later.

Preserving the Finish

Beyond cleaning, there are a few extra steps you can take to protect your aluminium composite panels and keep them looking fresh for longer.

Tips to Preserve Your Panels:

• UV Protective Coatings: Apply clear coatings designed to block ultraviolet rays, especially if the panels face strong sun all day.
• Anti-Graffiti Film: For panels in vulnerable areas, protective films can prevent paint from sticking.
• Proper Installation: Ensure panels are mounted with proper drainage and ventilation to avoid trapped moisture.
• Avoid Constant Contact with Soil or Plants: Keep base-level panels clear of soil, wet leaves, and other natural debris that can cause long-term staining or corrosion.

If the panels are printed (as many hoarding panels are), protecting the print with a laminate or protective overlay can significantly improve durability and visual quality.

When to Call the Professionals

Sometimes a deeper clean or repair is needed—especially when panels have been neglected or are part of a larger installation like a façade or long hoarding system.

Call in the Experts if You Notice:

• Peeling, blistering, or bubbling on the surface
• Bent, warped, or detached panels
• Significant staining that doesn't lift with normal cleaning
• Visible corrosion around joints or fixings

Professional maintenance providers have the right tools and safe, panel-friendly solutions to restore your aluminium composite panels without causing further damage.

They can also advise on longer-term maintenance plans or refurbishing older panels without full replacement—saving money and reducing waste.

Conclusion

Aluminium composite panels are an excellent choice for both temporary and permanent installations, thanks to their clean look and reliable performance. However, even these strong materials need a little upkeep. By following a gentle cleaning routine, handling stains properly, and preparing for seasonal changes, you can keep your panels looking as good as new for many years.

For large-scale installations or commercial hoarding panels, consider setting up a regular maintenance plan with your provider or facility team.

Board Printing Company provides durable and high-quality aluminium composite panel solutions. With proper care and attention, your panels can maintain their visual impact and stay strong—rain or shine.