Guide to powdercoated aluminium joinery | Window & Glass Association NZ

What is powdercoating?

Powdercoating is a surface finish that provides high-quality, durable protection for aluminium window and door frames. It differs from anodising because it is applied to the surface of the metal, like a paint, whereas anodising changes the base metal itself. Powdercoatings come in a range of colours and do not require regular repainting.

Treat your powdercoated joinery with the same care and attention you would give to the paintwork on a new car. Read more about maintenance here

Key Facts

Powdercoating is a treatment that can be used on aluminium window and door frames.

Durable and strong, it provides a sleek, high-quality finish.

Powdercoated aluminium is available in a wide variety of colours.

Regular maintenance will keep your powdercoated aluminium joinery looking at its best. Down the track, faded colour can be restored or even recoloured without removing the material from the building.

An Endurocolour^® registered applicator will ensure your powdercoated aluminium has a quality, lasting finish.

The powdercoating process

Powdercoating is a dry finishing process. Finely ground particles of pigment and resin are electrostatically charged and sprayed onto the joinery sections. These sections are then baked in an oven until the powder is fully cured. The result is a sleek, strong, high-quality finish that is one of the most durable colour coatings available. A good powdercoated finish will have a uniform appearance, colour, texture and gloss, and be free of any visible defects.

Benefits of powdercoated aluminium joinery

One of the strongest and most durable window and door frame coatings available.
Gives a sleek, high-quality finish.
Comes in a range of colours and textures.
Does not require regular repainting.
Can be touched up and refurbished if the colour starts to fade.
Gloss levels range from deep matt to bright and polished.
Joinery can be recoloured without being removed from the building.

Choosing fade-resistant colours

New Zealand’s harsh weather and UV conditions are hard on even the most durable finishes, and some powdercoating colours will perform better, and give you a longer life, than others.

Pale colours and pastels

These colours will give you long-lasting good looks over time as they reflect heat and have the best UV performance.

Dark colours

Darker colours, such as grey and black, absorb heat and will age more quickly than pastels, although regular maintenance will help increase their longevity.

Bright colours

Reds, yellows and oranges are produced using synthetic orange pigments and will fade over time. For longer-lasting colour, we recommend that you choose pale, pastel colours, which offer higher UV performance.

Durability

When your powdercoated joinery starts to fade or grow dull, you can polish it. Most coatings will benefit from a light cutting automotive polish, but always test it in a concealed area first. Powder manufacturers also supply dab sticks and spray cans for touch-ups.

Occasionally, you may need to get your aluminium windows recoated. You can recolour your joinery without removing it from the building. We recommend that you seek an in-situ refinisher who is also member of the Association to ensure you get a quality result. For consistency, colour matching should be done in daylight, but not in direct sunlight.

View As PDF