How to Clean and Maintain Your Engraved Signs in Perth’s Weather
Perth typically has dry, hot summers and wet, cool winters—and these differences in weather conditions can take their toll on engraved signs and outdoor signage. Though engravings are usually durable, it’s still important to clean and maintain them so you can preserve their longevity and appearance. So, here are some practical tips to help you keep your engravings and signs in Perth looking good throughout the seasons.
Understand the Challenges You’re Up Against
During summer, prolonged exposure to harsh sunlight can fade and discolour filled or painted engravings. Meanwhile, dirt, dust, and other pollutants can build up in the engraved grooves, making your signage look dull and obscuring the details of its design. When winter comes around, rains can cause water stains, mildew growth, and even corrosion on some materials. A regular cleaning schedule is necessary to prevent these weather conditions from causing irreversible damage.
Use the Right Cleaning Materials and Tools
Avoid any abrasive fabrics; use microfiber towels or soft cloths instead as these won’t scratch your sign. A mild detergent or car wash soap that’s been diluted in warm water can clean up most dirt, so there’s no need to use any harsh solvents or chemicals. If there are any stubborn stains or mildew, then a mixture of white vinegar and water is a good cleaning agent while isopropyl alcohol is effective at removing grease. For cleaning the grooves of an engraving, get a soft-bristled brush or even an ordinary toothbrush to scrub away at any accumulated gunk. Don’t forget to use clean water to rinse off the signage after you’re done. Finally, if the sign’s material is wood or metal, you should also use a sealant to give it another layer of protection against the elements.
Prep the Signage Before Cleaning It
You can’t just immediately splash your sign with water and start scrubbing away at it. Take the time to clear any loose debris or dust since these can cause scratches if you don’t remove them before you start cleaning with soap and water. This is an important pre-cleaning step, especially if you have custom letterbox signs that tend to have multiple corners and grooves that can collect a lot of dirt.
Preventative Maintenance Can Save You from Future Issues
Don’t wait until your engraved sign looks bad before taking care of it. Set a schedule to clean it regularly and inspect it monthly to check if there are any chips, cracks, or fading that could worsen later on and cost you a lot in repairs. It’s also worth considering changing its placement if it’s frequently exposed to bad weather conditions. Furthermore, your maintenance process should vary based on the sign’s material. Wooden signage, for instance, requires more care than steel or brass engravings, so take that into consideration before making your cleaning plans. It’s also a good idea to check with the provider of the signage for maintenance tips so you can properly look after your investment.
If you’re in the market for quality signs and engravings that can meet various needs, contact us today, and we’ll be happy to answer any of your questions.