Put some... color on your aluminium frames!

A variety of options for all tastes.

Alumil Team

Updated 05/09/2022

5’ read

Choosing aluminium frames for our home is a multifaceted process, as we have to take into account various factors and the characteristics of the product we purchase. Such a feature, which is one of the most important in relation to the aesthetic aspect of a frame, is its color.

Aluminium is a material that can undergo different treatments when it comes to the painting process. As a result, we have a multitude of color options, among which you are sure to find the one that suits you.

Aluminium coloring treatments fall under4 different types. Depending on your needs and preferences, you can choose the one that suits you best:

Powder Coating

With powder coating, the aluminium profile, which is first cleaned, is sprayed with the so-called powder that contains color. After that, the colored powder is baked, bonding the paint and completing the coating process of the profile.

Through this process, a huge range of options is available, both in terms of color and textures (glossy, matt or grained). Powdered coating also protects aluminium from environmental conditions that can potentially damage it. In seaside areas, where protection against salt is needed, when processing aluminium, it is important to follow the GSB, Qualicoat and Seaside Class, standards, which reinforce them against filiform corrosion. It should be noted, however, that in many cases the pre-anodizing surface treatment (see below) is recommended for even greater protection.

Powder coating also ensures gloss and color stability, as well as resistance to impact, abrasion or scratches. There are 3 classes of powder coatings, categorized according to the internationally recognized Florida Test. The higher the class, the higher the durability that your frame color will have over the years.

Anodizing

You've probably heard of the term anodizing, but you're not sure exactly what it offers. Anodizing is an electrochemical process which enhances the strength of the aluminium profile and colors it.

To better understand the process, think of large liquid-filled surfaces (called "baths") into which the aluminium profile is immersed. Anodizing opens the pores of the aluminium surface, artificially creating a layer (oxide), which now protects the surface, making the metal stronger against wear and corrosion. This outer layer that is painted, binds with the metal, and is not just paint applied to the surface.

The main advantages of this process are the lifetime stability of the original color, the durability and the anti-corrosive surface of the profile. The color options are fewer compared to those of powder coating, but they are enough to cover a wide range of needs. Finally, anodizing ideally shields aluminium systems installed in areas with adverse weather conditions, whether we are talking about rainfall, snowfall and winds, or coastal areas with high UV radiation and high salt concentration.

Pre-anodizing

There is a method that combines the benefits of powder coating with those of anodizing, for an excellent final result. This highly efficient surface treatment involves first subjecting the aluminium profile to a special anodizing process, followed by powder coating.

The result is a "sealed" aluminium profile that retains its color and texture, even under adverse conditions. This high quality processing shields it and offers great protection against corrosion. Therefore, in areas with harsh environmental conditions, pre-anodizing is recommended as the best method that will extend the lifespan of your aluminium frames.

Additionally, one of the key advantages of pre-anodizing is the variety of powder coating colors. You can choose the color of your aluminium frames from a truly vast palette.

Sublimation

If you love wooden surfaces, but want to enjoy the aluminium’s functionality and durability, sublimation is the right solution for you.

Sublimation is a wood imitation technique, which gives us the freedom to choose from a variety of shades and textures. This method has an excellent final aesthetic result and provides durability to the aluminium profile, using highly resistant powders for sublimation, which help maintain the gloss and shade of the frame.

The sublimation treatment is very popular in cases of houses in the countryside, where the effect of wood gives a sense of warmth and blends with the external environment, as well as in traditional villages, where the pre-existing aesthetics are preserved, combined with the excellent performance and durability of aluminium.

What should I choose?

There is no right and wrong answer when it comes to choosing the best aluminium coating method. Each method has its own advantages and offers a wide range of colors to choose from.

Before making your final decision, it’s important to assess the needs of your space, its location, and your personal preferences to determine which method suits you best.

Beyond enhancing durability, which the four coating techniques we’ve discussed all provide, the aesthetic result is also key. Don't hesitate to add to the equation what image you want to see when you wake up in the morning and look at your window frames. Choose with both your mind and your heart, and... bring color to your frames!