How to Restore Copper Gutters
what you'll need
- Copper cleaner
- Brush
- Rags
- Paper Towels
- Paper towel
- Synthetic scrubbing pad
- Copper cleaner
- Baking soda (if using an acid based copper cleaner)
- Soap
- Water
Copper gutters may be more expensive, but their color and shinny appearance accentuates your home with a warm feel. The problem, however, is that copper gutters eventually tarnish, if not maintained through cleaning.
Step 1 – Apply the Cleaning Gel
Use a brush to apply the copper cleaning gel to the copper gutters, and leave it for a while. The cleaning gel will work on the tarnish on the copper, to make it ready for cleaning. This will take 20 to 30 minutes. Test a small portion of the copper surface, to see if the tarnish is ready to come of.
Step 3 – Remove the Gel and the Stains
Once the tarnish has “melted,” you can now use water to remove the gel. As you remove the gel, the dirt will come off with it. Use a synthetic scrubbing pad to remove any remaining tarnish. Don't use steel wool. It will scratch the copper.
Step 4 – Polish the Copper
Applying a copper polish or cleaner will neutralize the copper and make it shine again. When using a cleaner that is acid based, use a baking soda and water solution to neutralize it.
Step 5 – Wash
Use a small amount of soapy water to wash away the copper polish, then rinse with clean water. Allow the copper gutters to dry.