By GOBO outlines the best steps for cleaning your outdoor bifold doors.

Bifold doors are an excellent choice to make the most of your outdoor entertainment area, however we understand that a certain amount of maintenance is required to keep them looking and operating like new. If you feel that your bifold doors could use a little TLC, you may be wondering about the best method to effectively clean them. Keep reading to find out the best step-by-step method for cleaning your aluminium bifold hinged doors.

Step 1: Source Your Cleaning Equipment

Firstly, assess the condition of your doors to determine how extensive the cleaning job will be. If your doors are only slightly dusty, they may only need to be gently hosed down with fresh water. However, if your doors are more visibly dirty or their usability is being compromised by debris, you may require more equipment. Sponges, soft brushes, and cloths are suitable for cleaning bifold doors – just ensure that your chosen cleaning tool will not scratch or mark the glass or aluminium. If you notice any structural damage to your doors, contact By GOBO for advice on how this can be fixed.

Step 2: Remove Dust and Debris

Before going in with your cleaning tools, remove any excess dust and debris by using a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment. This will dislodge any large debris that is obstructing your doors and will help prepare them for a more thorough cleaning with water and soap.

Step 3: Carefully Clean Your Doors

Begin cleaning your doors with your chosen cleaning tool, as well as lukewarm water and gentle cleaning soap. We recommend sugar soap or something similar. For any glass sections, we recommend using a window cleaning product. Specifically for glass, using a microfibre cloth can help remove any streaks.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry

Next, rinse the cleaning products off your doors by gently hosing them. If you’re cleaning the interior parts of the door, this can be done with a bucket of water and a clean towel. Use a squeegee on any glass sections to remove excess water and avoid streaking. Once all cleaning products, dirt and debris have been rinsed away, allow your doors to air dry before using them.

Considerations for Metal Hinges

Caring for the metal hinges of your bifold doors is arguably the most important part of their maintenance. Particularly if you live close to the ocean, hinges are prone to rust which will affect the usability of your doors over time. This is why we always recommend aluminium hinged doors at By GOBO, because they have a much lower chance of rusting.

In environments subject to salt water, you should wash down hinges with water once a week to avoid salt build-up – salt water corrodes metal five times fast than fresh water! Furthermore, you can also apply a lubricant such as WD40 to the hinges to ensure they are protected and functioning to their full potential.