The unique anodized finish is the only one in the metals industry that satisfies each of the factors that must be considered when selecting a high performance aluminum finish:

Durability. Anodizing is an electro-chemical process in which the aluminum on the surface of a part is converted to aluminum oxide. The aluminum oxide that is created is an integral part of the substrate and is much harder than the aluminum it replaces giving it excellent wear and abrasion resistance. Because the coating is an integral part of the substrate the anodic coating will not chip, peel or flake over time.

Color Stability. Exterior anodic coatings provide good stability to ultraviolet rays, do not chip or peel, and are easily repeatable.

Ease of Maintenance. Scars and wear from fabrication, handling, installation, frequent surface dirt cleaning and usage are virtually non-existent.  Rinsing or mild soap and water cleaning usually will restore an anodized surface to its original appearance.  Mild abrasive cleaners can be used for more difficult deposits. Anodized surfaces, unlike stainless steel, will not show fingerprints.

Aesthetics. Anodizing offers a large increasing number of gloss and color alternatives and minimizes or eliminates color variations. Unlike other finishes, anodizing allows the aluminum to maintain its metallic appearance.

Cost. A lower initial finishing cost combines with lower maintenance costs for greater long-term value.

Health and Safety. Anodizing is a safe process that is not harmful to human health.  An anodized finish is chemically stable, will not decompose; is non-toxic; and is heat-resistant to the melting point of aluminum (1,221 degrees F). Since the anodizing process replicates the naturally occurring oxide process, it is non-hazardous and produces no harmful or dangerous by-products.  

ANODIZING DISADVANTAGES

Limited color choices. Architectural anodize is available in clear (silver), a range of bronze tones and black. Linetec also offers copper anodize.

Will not hide surface defects on aluminum.  Anodize is an integral part of the aluminum, unlike paint and powder coat, therefore heavy die lines, dents and dings on the aluminum part will show through the  anodize finish.

Color Range. The color obtained in the anodize process depends on many factors, such as alloy, temper, and shape; therefore, it is impossible to produce a perfect color match. As a result, some color variation should be expected. Anodizers can supply  "range samples" which show what color variation should be expected.

Difficult Touch-up. Anodize finishes are factory-applied, so field touchups must be done with paint. A paint finish will never match an anodize finish very well.