PROVEN PERFORMANCE
Specifying aluminum framing with high-performance finishes offers protection against weathering, aging and pollution.
Anodize finishes are created through an electro-chemical process where the aluminum on the surface of a part is converted from aluminum to aluminum oxide. This extremely hard, durable surface finish is second only to a diamond in its hardness. Because of these properties and because the coating is integral to the part itself, anodize is highly resistant to marring, scratching and other damage often associated with the needs of high-traffic environments.
For the most durable and wear-resistant finish available, choose Class I anodize specified to meet AAMA 611-20, “Voluntary Specification for Anodized Architectural Aluminum”. Setting the standard for fenestration products, AAMA specification documents are published by the Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance (FGIA).
For high-performance painted finishes, specify AAMA 2605-22, “Voluntary Specification, Performance Requirements and Test Procedures for Superior Performing Organic Coatings on Aluminum Extrusions and Panels”. Updated in 2022, finishes that meet AAMA 2605 withstand long-term ultraviolet radiation, which results in the highest level of color/gloss retention and chalk resistance. PVDF finishes also resist acids, alkalis, oils and dirt pickup.
In coastal climates and corrosive environments, finished architectural aluminum also may specify a 70 percent PVDF coating system with chrome phosphate pretreatment along with an inhibitive chrome-rich primer. Anodize finishes that meet AAMA 611-20 Class I also can be a suitable, resilient and sustainable choice for coastal climates.
SUSTAINABILITY STRIDES
Supporting projects’ sustainability goals, many aluminum fenestration systems can be manufactured with recycled content.
Because liquid paint solvents contain VOCs, environmentally responsible finishers safely capture and eliminate these at their facilities using a 100 percent air-capture system and regenerative thermal oxidizing equipment. The painted aluminum cures under factory-controlled conditions before the finished material is installed on the job site.
There are no applicable VOCs associated with anodized aluminum. It is an inert, non-combustible material that is 100 percent recyclable and poses no health risks. Recognizing these attributes and anodized aluminum products’ 40-year life expectancy, at least one anodize finishing provider recently earned a Declare Label as Living Building Challenge (LBC) Red List Free from the International Living Future Institute.
Declare LBC Red List Free indicates full compliance with the highest-level criteria. Declare LBC Red List Free products are recognized by the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED Rating System and other green and well building programs.
For properties with windows, doors and fenestration systems featuring painted aluminum framing, onsite finishing specialists can support sustainable building goals. Water-based, PVDF resin- based, air-dry coating systems meet the interior specification for the Green Seal standard and uphold LEED criteria.
ONSITE SERVICE
For any repair other than a small scratch or blemish, it is strongly suggested that a licensed, professional field service applicator inspect the situation and determine the best suitable paint or repair procedure. Onsite repair, refinishing and restoration of architectural projects require special equipment and exceptional knowledge. A minor mistake in any segment of repair can cause major problems over time.
If the property is to remain occupied during renovation, be sure the team has a good reputation for coordinating and minimizing disruption for occupants. Keep in mind that the field team may need to enter the tenants’ space to do their work; for example, to repair or restore the interior face of a curtainwall.
Ongoing care and maintenance of the finished aluminum should follow the AAMA 609 and 610-15, “Cleaning and Maintenance Guide for Architectural Finished Aluminum” specification. Working closely with fenestration product manufacturers and architectural finishing service providers will ensure optimal results.