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TOPIC: Cleaning Your Metal Roof

Galvanized steel roof with hand prints

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Hi, I recently had a galvanized steel roof installed. The interior is exposed for decor. The installers didn't have gloves during the installation. The once sheer surface now has lots of hand smudge prints. Was it the acids on skin that caused these prints? I am unable to clean the smudges. Is there a way to get the surface "cleaned" and back to its original luster? Thank you very much. Mike
Guest User

1/23/2006
I would try Windex or 409 cleaner. Try a small area first. It works well on copper but I am not sure about galvanized. I would rinse with clear water afterward. Todd Miller
Todd Miller
Isaiah Industries, Inc.

1/23/2006
Thank you for the suggestion. The following is a response I received from another source... It doesn't look good. I would agree that the smudges are areas of light oxidation that were caused by the oils/acids from the skin – this is a known problem and why the installers are advised to wear gloves during installation. It is best to remove these smudges immediately with mild alkaline cleaners. Once the oxidation has formed it is difficult to remove. Two methods that I have seen in the literature are to use 1) an aqueous solution of tartaric acid and ammonium carbonate or 2) a 5 % solution of potassium dichromate with the addition of 0.1 % sulfuric acid. Both of these should be followed by thorough rinse. These may remove whatever deposits are present, but unfortunately, the surface will still not be returned to its original luster – there is really nothing that I know of that can be done for that.
Guest User

1/23/2006
Thanks! Todd Miller
Todd Miller
Isaiah Industries, Inc.

1/24/2006