Clean HPL with water, mild detergent and a soft cloth or sponge. That is genuinely all that is required for routine maintenance. The damage people cause almost always comes from doing more than this, not less.
Routine Cleaning
Twice a year is sufficient for most facades, ideally once after the monsoon and once before it.
- Rinse the surface with plain water to remove loose dust and grit. Skipping this step means you grind that grit into the surface in the next step.
- Mix a mild detergent with water. Ordinary dish soap is fine.
- Wash with a soft cloth, sponge or soft-bristle brush, working from the top down.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water so no detergent residue dries on the surface.
- Allow to air dry, or wipe with a soft cloth if streaking is a concern.
What Not to Use
- High-pressure washers — the panel surface can take it, but the joints and sealant often cannot. Forcing water into joints at pressure is one of the few ways to introduce water behind a well-built facade. If you must use one, keep pressure low and the nozzle well back, and never aim directly into joints.
- Abrasive scourers, steel wool and scrubbing pads — these dull the surface permanently. Once the sheen is scratched off, it cannot be restored.
- Acidic or strongly alkaline cleaners — including many bathroom and tile cleaners. These can attack the surface coating.
- Solvents — thinner, acetone and similar. They can soften or cloud the finish.
- Wax and polish — HPL does not need it, and it builds up into a hazy film that attracts more dust.
Dealing With Specific Problems
Dust and general grime
Standard routine above. This covers 90 percent of cleaning needs.
Bird droppings
Remove promptly. They are acidic and, left to bake in sun for weeks, can mark the surface. Soften with water first rather than scraping dry.
Water streaking and mineral marks
Common below window sills and ledges in hard water areas. A diluted white vinegar solution, applied briefly and rinsed thoroughly, usually handles this. Test on an inconspicuous panel first.
Algae or green growth
Appears on shaded, damp elevations. Mild detergent and a soft brush is usually enough. If it keeps returning, the underlying cause is poor drainage or a permanently damp area, and cleaning is treating the symptom.
Adhesive residue from tape or stickers
Isopropyl alcohol on a soft cloth, applied briefly and then rinsed. Do not leave solvent sitting on the surface.
Paint splashes
Remove while still wet with a damp cloth. Dried paint is much harder to remove without risking the finish, so cover cladding during any painting work nearby.
Preventive Habits
- Keep gutters and downpipes clear so water does not overflow across the facade
- Trim vegetation back from the cladding face to reduce moisture retention and abrasion
- Ensure the cavity base stays clear of leaves and debris
- Check joint sealant annually and address any gaps early
- Cover panels during nearby construction or painting work
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should HPL cladding be cleaned?
Twice a year is enough for most facades. Dusty or polluted locations may benefit from quarterly cleaning.
Can I pressure wash HPL?
Cautiously. The panel tolerates it but joints and sealant may not. Keep pressure low, stand well back, and never direct the jet into joints.
What removes stubborn stains from HPL?
Diluted white vinegar for mineral marks, isopropyl alcohol for adhesive residue. Test on a hidden area first and always rinse afterwards.
Does HPL need polishing or waxing?
No. Polish and wax build up into a hazy film and attract dust. Water and mild detergent is all that is needed.
Questions about maintaining your UVCLAD facade? Get in touch with our support team.