Aluminium window spraying

Why aluminium frames fade

Factory powder coating is durable, but years of UV, rain and salt air break down the surface. The colour goes dull and chalky, dark colours lighten unevenly, and small areas of coating can lift around fixings or damaged corners. As long as the frames themselves are sound and the coating underneath is still well bonded, a respray restores the finish at a fraction of the disruption of replacement.

How aluminium window frame spraying is done

Frames are washed and degreased to remove dirt, chalking and any silicone or polish residues that would stop new coating bonding. The surface is then lightly abraded, any corrosion or damaged areas are treated, and an adhesion check confirms the existing coating will take a new system. Glass, seals, gaskets, handles and the surrounding wall are masked. A primer suited to coated aluminium is applied where needed, followed by a sprayed topcoat for an even, factory-like finish.

• Window and door frames
• Sliding and bifold doors
• Shopfront and entrance frames
• Curtain wall mullions and transoms

Curtain wall spraying on commercial buildings

Office blocks, schools and retail units often have large areas of aluminium curtain walling. Spraying these on site means planning access, usually by access platforms or towers, and protecting the glazing and the people below. Work is phased around occupation, with RAMS supplied for commercial sites and spraying areas screened so the building can stay open. Internal faces of frames can be done in the same programme, out of hours if needed.

Choosing a colour

Anthracite grey, black and white are popular choices, but most colours can be matched. Changing from a light to a very dark shade increases heat absorption on south-facing frames, so the coating is chosen to suit. On a terrace or block, check whether a lease, a managing agent or planning rules in a conservation area restrict changing window colours before choosing.

Weather and curing

Outdoor spraying needs dry weather, suitable temperatures and low wind, so exterior work is scheduled around the forecast. Windows can usually be closed the same day once the coating is touch dry, with full hardness developing over the following days. Moving parts and seals are kept clear so windows open and close as before.

What a quote covers

The price depends on the number and size of frames, whether internal and external faces are both done, access height, the condition of the coating and whether there is a colour change. Send photos of the elevations and close-ups of any damage for a free quote. Our playbook on refinishing powder-coated aluminium windows goes into more technical detail.