Aluminium windows are popular among homeowners due to their durability, functionality, low maintenance, and sleek appearance.
When it comes to enhancing the aesthetics in the desired color and protecting these windows from harsh environments, there are various methods and ways.
However, two primary finishing options stand out: to paint or to powder-coat aluminium. But is it wise to go for classic wet paint, or does powder coating offer the best outcome?
If you’re looking for a high-quality finish that will last for years to come, then Powder coating is the way to go. With a smoother and more consistent finish, it is more expensive than paint.
This article will explain everything you should know about both methods and explore the advantages of powder-coating finishes and wet painting to determine which is better for aluminium windows.
What is Powder-Coating?
Powder-coating is a modern finishing technique that is done by a process called the Electrostatic process.
Simply put, powder coating involves applying a dry powder (negatively charged powder) to the aluminium window (positively charged surface). This powder contains pigments and resin, which is electrostatically charged.
The charged pigment spray temporarily adheres to the aluminium, creating a smooth film and consistent coating. The coated windows are then cured in an oven, where the powder melts, fuses, and hardens into a tough finish.
Benefits of Powder Coating Over Liquid Painting
Powder coating has gained much popularity and has found its application in various types of industries. From automobile parts to architectural components, residential and commercial building industry manufacturers, everyone is benefiting from this method.
Here are several advantages to using a powder coat rather than liquid paint.
1. More Durable Choice
Compared to working with traditional paints, powder coating offers greater durability.
Powder coating creates a harder finish than paint, providing additional strength to the bare aluminium surface and becoming more resistant to scratches, chipping, and fading. In addition, powder coating is less likely to peel or flake off over time.
Let’s say windows are exposed to harsh weather conditions, such as extreme heat, acid rain, or coastal saltwater air; powder coating offers superior protection against chemicals and salt.
2. Eco-Friendly Than Paint
The remarkable advantage of powder coating lies in its environmental friendliness. This eco-conscious alternative sets it apart from conventional paint applications.
The coating method avoids chemical solvents during the electrostatic process. By sidestepping these harmful substances, like volatile organic compounds (VOCs), powder coating is sure to resonate with conscious consumers, ensuring a breath of untainted fresh air.
Another green factor is its recyclability unlike paint, which generates substantial waste, powder coating materials can be recycled and reused, significantly reducing the burden on landfills.
3. Longevity of Aesthetics
Another powder coating over paint is that it is more aesthetically pleasing. Powder coating can be applied in a range of eye-catching colors and even finishes, so you can make a customized look for your project.
In addition, powder coating has a glossy finish that makes it look smooth and new for longer than paint.
4. Low Maintenance Than Paint
One benefit of coating powder is that it requires less maintenance than paint does. The smooth surface of powder-coated aluminium windows resists dirt, grime, and fading, making them easy to clean and maintain.
5. Ease of Powder Application
With no chance of running liquid paints or drips, a powder coating is generally easier to apply with an electrostatic spray gun.
Advantages of Wet Painting
While powder coating remains a popular choice for finishing aluminium windows, it’s important to note that wet paint offers many advantages that should not be overlooked.
1. Ease of Color Matching
Wet painting provides better color-matching capabilities if you want to match a specific color or create a custom shade.
Wet painting has a broader range of finishes, including different textures, sheens, and effects, giving homeowners more creative choices.
2. Affordability
For budget-conscious homeowners, liquid painting is bound to pique their interest.
A gallon of high-quality paint will cost you around AED 100, while a pound of powder coating will cost you around AED 200. So, if budget is the primary concern, painting aluminum may be a pocket-friendly option for you.
3. Repairability
In case of damage or wear over time, someone can easily repaint wet-painted aluminium windows without requiring extensive surface preparation.
Furthermore, paint allows easier surface changes later on compared to powder coating. For instance, adding new holes for mounting hardware is much simpler with paint than with powder coating.
Why Choose Powder Coating for Aluminium Window?
Aluminum is resistant to paint adhesion. Though aluminum does not rust, it quickly develops surface oxidation that tends to affect the long-term adhesion of the paint film. Thus it requires meticulous preparation and ideally should be painted very soon after that prep’. Likewise, aluminum also is more difficult to weld for the same reasons.
Powder coating is an alternative that seems to work well.
For example, the powder coating forms a strong layer over the aluminium. Thanks to the so-called stoving, where the coating is melted in an oven, a layer of paint is created that is stronger and less likely to be damaged than an ordinary painted layer.
Over To You!
Ultimately, deciding between powder-coating and wet paint comes down to your specific needs, preferences, budget, and environmental considerations.
Regardless of your choice, both options have unique benefits, so it’s important to weigh them carefully and choose the one that’s right for your slim aluminium window.
However, investing in high-quality finishing for your aluminium windows will undoubtedly add value and beauty to your home for years.
