Painting aluminum: how to do it correctly

Aluminum is a common material, but painting it requires a specific approach. Whether it's painted or unpainted aluminum, at Paintfactory, we have the perfect guide for you. Follow these step-by-step instructions and use the right products for a professional result.

Is the aluminum painted or not?

To start, it's important to know if the aluminum has already been painted. Then, check the condition of the paint:

1. Intact paint layer

   • Treatment: remove dust, sand with grit 150-180, and degrease with Bonotools Cleaner Spray. Apply two coats of LAK HYDRO.

2. Flaking paint layer

   • Treatment: remove loose paint with Super Afbijter Hydro, sand the surface, and clean with Bonotools Cleaner Spray. Apply one coat of OMNI HYDRO and two coats of LAK HYDRO.

3. Powdering paint layer

   • Treatment: remove powdering layers by sanding, clean, then apply one coat of OMNI HYDRO and two coats of LAK HYDRO.

Unpainted aluminum

Unpainted aluminum can consist of two types: Anodized aluminum, which is more difficult to paint and must first be roughened, and stove-enamelled aluminum, which is easier to paint.

Painting tips

• Painting conditions: work at temperatures between 5°C and 30°C, and pay attention to humidity. Avoid painting in the rain.
• Preparation: use suitable masking tape to neatly mask edges.
• Painting: apply the paint with a brush or roller, such as the Anza felt roller, and ensure you respect the prescribed consumption.

Good to know

Aluminum can also oxidize, which looks like a whitish layer. Although this layer is protective, you must thoroughly remove it by sanding before you start painting.

For professional advice and the right paint products, you can always visit our Paintfactory stores in Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, Hasselt, Kortrijk or Roeselare.