Radiance & Resilience: The Advantages of Aluminum Finishing

Aluminum is an incredible material that offers unmatched versatility not possible with many other metals. Most people will associate aluminum with products like beverage cans and foil for wrapping up leftovers, but there are countless other options for using aluminum. One popular way that aluminum is manufactured is through the extrusion process. Aluminum extrusions are then used for commercial architectural trims, window and door framing, building construction, tubing, docks, awnings, and drip caps and door framing on RVs and campers. Choosing to add a finish will alter the final look of the raw extruded shape to something even more desirable. Read on to learn about aluminum finishing options like powder coating and anodizing, the benefits of finishing your aluminum extrusions, and how to choose the right finish for your project.

Finishing Methods for Aluminum

One of the most common finishes often added to aluminum is anodization. Anodizing is an electrochemical process through which a decorative layer is added to an aluminum extrusion. In this process, the aluminum product is submerged into an electromagnetic bath through which an electric current is passed. With a cathode mounted inside of the tank, the aluminum acts like an anode. Oxygen ions are then released from the electrolyte, combining with the aluminum atoms on the surface of the aluminum extrusion. Compared to other metals, aluminum is well-suited for the anodization process because of its chemical makeup.

Powder coating is another popular finishing option for aluminum extrusions. It is a decorative finish similar to paint, but with more durability. The process involves melting dry plastic powder onto the metal to produce a textured, matte or glossy coating. Powder coating creates a thick, protective, and UV-resistant barrier against scratches, chemicals, and harsh weather.

Why Add a Finish to Your Aluminum Extrusion?

The Aesthetic Appeal of Aluminum Finishes

There are several reasons why one might consider adding a finish to their aluminum products. One of the most important reasons is aesthetics. A finish simply makes an aluminum product look more appealing and polished. Appearance is a factor in many cases in which the finished aluminum product will be visible, so the option to alter the color or texture is attractive to many people. Anodizing allows aluminum profiles to retain their metallic luster while accepting durable and vibrant colors. Available in a vast array of colors, textures (matte, gloss, wrinkle), and effects (metallic), powder coatings allow for tailored, high-quality finishes.

The Added Protection from Aluminum Finishes

Another reason to consider adding a finish to your aluminum extrusion is protection from the elements. While aluminum is naturally resistant to corrosion, when exposed to extreme environments aluminum products can benefit from an additional layer of protection. This is particularly the case in environments where temperature, moisture, and humidity are present on a regular basis.

Both anodized and powder coat finishes offer the following protective benefits

• Enhanced Durability and Protection: Anodized and powder coated finishes are highly resistant to scratching, chipping, and abrasion.
• Superior Corrosion Resistance: Anodized and powder coated finishes both act as robust protective barriers against moisture and environmental elements, preventing oxidation and corrosion.
• Long-Lasting Aesthetic Appeal: Resistant to UV damage, fading, and chalking, anodized and powder coated finishes maintain their appearance for decades.
• Low Maintenance: Both durable finishes are easy to clean and require less frequent maintenance compared to paint and other surface treatments.

Choosing the Right Finish

When it comes time to choose the right aluminum finish for your project, you’ll first want to consider the overall look you’re going for and the environment in which the aluminum will be placed. For aluminum extrusions that will be installed in corporate offices, for example, you’ll likely want a more subtle and sophisticated finish that highlights and brings together all the other materials used in the space without detracting from the overall feel that was intended by the architect. On the other hand, aluminum extrusions that will be placed in retail spaces or vibrant workspaces where corporate architectural themes and branding environments are highly recognized help achieve consistent corporate branding and appearance.

Additionally, you’ll want to consider whether your aluminum extrusions will be exposed to harsh weather conditions. In this case, you may opt for a finish that is less likely to show wear and tear over time. Further, you’ll want to make sure that the finish you choose for this type of extreme environment has the right thickness to minimize degradation.

Aluminum Finishes from Eagle Aluminum

Eagle Aluminum has an incredible selection of aluminum finishes to fit just about any project. No matter the look you’re going for, our anodized and powder coated aluminum finishes will suit your needs. From subtle and sophisticated finish options to colors that are bright and bold, there are so many to choose from. While we offer a range of standard finishes, we also specialize in creating customized aluminum finishes to ensure you get exactly what you’re looking for. Contact us today to learn more about our aluminum anodizing services and the finishes available.