A relatively easy substrate to finish if proper preparation is followed. Often inquires are made at a retail level on how to finish aluminum (i.e., trailers, siding, awning, storm sash, etc.) When finishing previously painted aluminum you are not coating aluminum you are coating paint. Be sure and follow proper surface preparation techniques and proceed as with any paint job. New aluminum surfaces will have a protective film from the factory which must be removed to insure proper adhesion. If this is raw (uncoated) aluminum it is recommended to clean and treat the surface using a chemical cleaning and etching solution. These type of products not only clean the aluminum but also provide a “conversion coating” that will promote greater adhesion of finish coats. Old aluminum surfaces may have oxidized and will require cleaning similar to new aluminum. A concentrated solution of Tri-Sodium Phosphate will remove oxidized salts from aged, bare aluminum. After any preparation solution, rinse thoroughly prior to painting.

  Follow the directions on the container making a special effort to rinse thoroughly with clear water to remove excess solutions or salts. Clean surfaces will “sheet” water while contaminated surfaces will cause water to “bead” . The clean surface may be coated using either oil or latex system.