Awnings can help keep your home energy-efficient --- they also have a decorative advantage. However, if they get too dirty, they can quickly become a public eyesore. Your instincts might tell you to rent a power washer to do the job. Don't follow your instincts on this one --- a power washer can actually damage the awning, especially if the aluminum is painted. Instead, buy a solvent made for aluminum at the hardware store and a soft brush to scrub away the gunk. If your awnings are too dirty to clean as thoroughly as you'd like, consider (re)painting them after cleaning.
Step 1
Fill a large bucket with water and add the recommended amount of solvent (refer to the back or side of the solvent bottle).
Step 2
Wet one awning with a hose. Next, submerge a brush in the cleaning solution, and then scrub the awning. Rinse thoroughly when finished scrubbing; do not let the cleaner dry onto the awning.
Step 3
Repeat the cleaning process on each awning.
Step 4
If you miss any areas or if some are hard to reach from the ground, set a ladder against the building near the awning and scrub the area with a hand held brush, rag or sponge. Rinse well.
Step 5
While the awnings dry, rinse oxidation and soap residue from concrete or wood. It will leave a residue on the former and stain the latter.