Aluminum is a popular material used in a variety of everyday items, from kitchen appliances to bicycle parts. Unfortunately, these aluminum surfaces can easily become scratched and scuffed over time. Fortunately, there are some simple techniques you can use to restore the shine and luster to your scratched aluminum.
Polishing Out Light Scratches
For light scuffs and scratches, the easiest solution is to use a scouring pad and metal polish. Gently rub the scouring pad back and forth over the scratched area, following the grain of the aluminum. Be sure to polish the entire surface, not just the scratched area, to ensure a uniform finish. You can use a specialized aluminum polish or any type of metal polish you have on hand – both will work to shine up the surface.
Sanding Deep Scratches
If the scratches are more severe, you may need to sand the surface to remove them. Start with a coarse 320-grit sandpaper and work your way up to finer grits, such as 800, 1500, and 2000. Be sure to use a lubricant like WD-40 when sanding to prevent further damage to the aluminum. Once you’ve sanded the surface smooth, you can then use a polishing compound to restore the shine.
Keep in mind that if there are very deep dents or gouges in the aluminum, sanding may not be able to completely remove them, but it can help minimize their appearance.
No matter which method you choose, it’s important to take your time and work carefully to avoid creating additional scratches or damage to the aluminum surface. With a little elbow grease and the right tools, you can restore the shine and luster to your scratched aluminum items.