How do I clean my thin gauge plates?
Some thin gauge plates will require cleaning to retain their original luster over time. Depending on the installation environment, we recommend cleaning all outdoor and indoor letters every few months.
To clean your thin gauge plates, use a soft cloth, rag, or sponge and warm, soapy water. Dry with a soft rag or cloth. We recommend using gentle, liquid dish soap. Always carefully wipe letters, logos, and plates in the same direction as the grain.
Note: Refer below to the corresponding material for additional notes and cleaning information.
Warning: Never wash any letter, logo, plaque, or plate with common harsh detergents or chemicals such as Comet, Ajax, Soft Scrub, or similar abrasive solutions as they will scratch finishes.
Note: Take extra care with UV-print fill, UV-printing, or screen-print plates, as they do not have a clear top coating and have raw metal edges.
Brass, Nickel, Silver, and Copper Etched Thin Gauge Plates
Plates are top coated with a clear polyester coating to protect the metal from corrosion. Use recommended cleaning method with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water to preserve the original finish. Dry with a soft cloth.
Anodized Aluminum Etched Thin Gauge Plates
Anodized aluminum plates are typically not top-coated and subject to corrosion or stains. Use recommended cleaning method with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water to preserve the original finish. Dry with a soft cloth.
Stainless Steel Etched Thin Gauge Plates
Stainless steel plates are not top coated with a clear polyester coating. They will have a raw metal edge. Use recommended cleaning method with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water to preserve the original plate. Dry with a soft cloth.
Screen-Printed
Screen-printed aluminum plates are typically not top coated and are subject to corrosion or stains when printed on stainless or anodized aluminum. Most screen printing is on pre-painted or lacquered aluminum. Use recommended cleaning method with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water to preserve the original plate. Dry with a soft cloth.
Sublimation Printed
We do not recommend cleaning sublimation printed plates as cleaning will damage the product.
UV-Printed
UV-printed aluminum plates are typically not top-coated. Use recommended cleaning method with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water to preserve the original product. Dry with a soft cloth.
More about Thin Gauge Plates
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