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Unique Frame Finishing Options for minimal windows® Systems

Polyester Powder Coating (PPC) is the most common finish for aluminium frames. Here a dried powder is electrically charged and sprayed onto the frames. 

This is a long-term, durable solution compared to older painting methods and provides protection for the aluminium frame to prevent oxidisation and damage.

Anodising is an electrochemical process that involves using electrical currents to form a layer of aluminium oxide on the surface of the frame.

Frames can be pre-anodised and then have a PPC applied. We recommend this for glazing in marine and coastal environments as it provides extra protection from the harsh sea air.

A combination of techniques can be used to create special finishes such as timber effect, which is done using PPC and creating grooves on the framing.

minimal windows silver anodised handle for a slim sliding glass door

Polyester Powder Coating for Aluminium Glazing

Many people opt for polyester powder coatings somewhere on the grey scale, with dark greys and silver being among the most popular. It’s highly unlikely these types of colours would clash with the surroundings, whether they blend in seamlessly or contrast and stand out.

The most popular RAL colour for minimal windows frames is RAL 7016, also known as anthracite grey. Some individuals prefer to choose one of the less common RAL colours.

With over 200 RAL colours to choose from when it comes to polyester powder coating, framing can be made to blend in with the surrounding areas, contrast for a modern look, or made into a design feature of its own by using a bold, unusual colour.

An excellent example of this is the Carlston Lodge Project by architects Lipton Plant. This project features minimal windows sliding glass in an opening corner pocket door configuration.

The frame colour of these doors was of particular importance to the architect and client. The finish they chose in the end was a specialist finish called ‘Beige Curry’, which is a stunning gold toned colour.

Use of this unusual colour for the sliding glass door frames results in an overall aesthetic that exudes elegance and luxury. 

Anodising for Aluminium Glazing

Anodising is a process that involves creating a layer of anodic oxide on the external face of the aluminium framing. This process literally alters the surface of the aluminium, converting it to a decorative and durable anodic oxide finish.

To create an anodised finish the aluminium frame is charged with a positive electric current, turning it into an anode, and a negative charge electrode (also known as a cathode) is placed into an electrolyte solution with the frame.

Negative ions are attracted to the positively charged metal frame which forms the anodic oxide layer. It is essentially a controlled form of oxidisation is not something seen every day, creating a unique frame that is a design feature on its own.

An anodised finish is extremely aesthetically pleasing up close and is a great finishing option for people looking for more unique frame designs. This is complemented by the large glass panes it encloses. The natural light hitting the frame highlights the chromatic look.

One issue that can arise from anodising aluminium framing is that as the results can be slightly unpredictable, if part of the framing needs replacing it can’t be guaranteed that the replacement part will be an exact match to the existing framing.

three different shades of timber effect finishes for aluminium framing
two examples of anodised aluminium which created a chrome frame look for minimal windows glazing systems

Special Finishes for Aluminium Glazing

Timber effect

To create timber effect aluminium frames, white polyester powder coating is used and then grooves are made in the frame, mimicking a traditional timber frame.

Other RAL colours can be used for a more unique wood effect finish such as blue or pink.

Marine Grade Finish

Marine grade PPC is slightly thicker than standard PPC and protects the aluminium framing, due to the harsh marine environment we recommend pre-anodising the frame and then applying a layer of PPC.

The aluminium framing on minimal windows systems have marine grade PPC as standard.

This forms an extra thick double layer of protection again the chemicals and increased moisture in the air in these marine environments.

For more information about minimal windows® and available frame finishes, get in touch with the team today.

01494 722 880