Preparation is key to achieving a good and excellent result.

Although there is far more detailed process involved in recolouring windows, based on usual preparation of aluminium surface, we have breakdown our restoration and recolouring process in 2 stages – Preparation & Finishing.

The preparation prior to repainting is basically the same for all aluminium windows however the amount of preparation may differ depending on the type of paint previously applied to it and/or the current condition of the aluminium joinery i.e., if corrosion and oxidation is present on the aluminum or if the aluminium is bare, anodised, or have been painted using a house paint or powder coated.

For bare aluminium, standard cleaning, sanding and surface prep prior to repainting is required as an SOP however, an etch primer will be applied to improve adhesion to the aluminium surface prior to applying topcoats. This is similar to anodised aluminium windows where a strong primer with excellent bonding characteristics is applied to the aluminium joinery prior to applying your chosen colour.

For aluminium joinery previously painted with house paint, the cleaning process can be very tedious and labour intensive depending on how much house paint was used on the joinery. A chemical to strip the paint will be used followed by using thinners to clean the surface. This step will have to be repeated until the house paint was fully removed and then can only proceed to Stage 1 aluminium surface preparations. Check our blog on house paint vs 2k paint on aluminum joinery.

Stage 1: Preparation of Aluminium Surface

CLEANING THE ALUMINIUM JOINERY

The aluminium joinery is thoroughly but carefully cleaned using the correct solvents and soapy water to soften any dirt deposits and dusts. 

After removing dirt deposits, it will have to be wiped down again with the cleaning agent to remove grease and any remaining dirt left ensuring any hardened dirt are fully removed.

And then a final wipe using a tack rag will be used to ensure any dust left on the aluminium are also cleaned off from the surface.

SURFACE PROTECTION

All adjacent surfaces like ceiling and walls surrounding the joinery are masked up to protect from any chance of overspray.

Rubbers and window glass are also protected and where possible, all hinges, window sashes and door handles are removed or properly masked.

Any interior joinery and personal belongings are also covered and protected from potential over spray or dust.

SANDING OF THE JOINERY

The aluminium surfaces are sanded using the correct grit sandpaper. The grit used depends on the surface and current condition of the joinery.

If the joinery has an existing corrosion, this will be properly sanded and repaired.

For joinery that has existing dents or holes, if the damage is only aesthetical this will also be repaired prior to repainting process.

Once sanded, the dusts are then cleaned off using compressed air and thoroughly cleaned again with the proper cleaning agent removing any contaminants and dusts on the surface.