Linetec Introduces New Copper Anodize Finish

Wausau, Wis. (May 2005) – Linetec, the nation’s largest independent high-performance architectural metals finishing company, introduces a new copper anodize finish that maintains its desired color over time and under harsh environmental conditions.

Linetec is among the first in the industry bringing this new technology and chemistry to market-leaders like Kolbe Windows & Doors and Weather Shield Window and Doors aluminum clad, residential products. “Architects, owners and residents no longer need to worry about the aesthetic compromise of choosing the classic look of copper,” says Linetec President Rick Marshall. “Now, we can offer our customers the look of rich, real copper without such shortcomings as salt run-off stains, galvanic corrosion and patina.”

The technology behind Linetec’s new copper anodize was developed in the mid-1990s and has been tested to meet all AAMA 611 Class 1 specifications requiring five year weathering tests. Samples in the field have endured over eight years of exposure to south Florida’s harsh climate with no significant change to color or gloss.

“Our new copper anodize process is a unique, consistent and repeatable process. It involves using actual copper to color the aluminum while isolating the copper in the coating. This process makes the copper color very stable and consistent compared to other copper anodize finishes,” explains Andy Joswiak, Linetec’s vice president of operations.

The flexibility of this innovative copper process allows Linetec to anodize the material either before fabrication, such as for window framing material, or after fabrication, such as for louvers. Furthermore, it can be specified in both sheet form and extrusion form. As with traditional anodize colors, Linetec ensures color consistency within five delta Es and stands behind its work with a five-year warranty.