Can an aluminium conservatory be repainted?
While an aluminium conservatory does not require any particular maintenance because of the durability and strength of the material, you can also decide to change its appearance or renovate it to bring it up to date after replacing your doors and windows. Rather than replacing it, repainting your conservatory or living room is the least expensive solution. Just like painting PVC, painting aluminium is also possible. How do I paint an aluminium conservatory? Which paint should I choose? Do I need to apply an undercoat? Restoring an all-aluminium conservatory by repainting it is as ambitious as it is exhilarating, requiring time, patience and method. Here's our top tip for restoring colour to your conservatory!
Prepare before painting aluminium
Start the renovation by cleaning all the aluminium on your conservatory with a cloth soaked in acetone or alcohol, which is effective for removing dirty, greasy film. This will also remove the protective layer on the surface of the aluminium, which is useful for enhancing the adhesion of the paint. During the operation, be sure to protect the windows and wear gloves.
What should I do if the aluminium is oxidised or rusty? In this case, cover the affected areas with a rust converter and a paintbrush, then sand off the excess product to obtain a smooth surface. Clean again to remove all traces.
Choose your paint carefully
By its very nature, aluminium has a smooth surface that makes it difficult to fix paint to. You'll need to apply a special aluminium or metalprimer to help the paint adhere, and to protect your conservatory from any new rust spots. Then leave to dry thoroughly.
For the paint, opt for a special aluminium paint; either acrylic (water-based paint, less toxic and more environmentally friendly) or glycerine (oil-based paint with solvent, reputed to be more polluting but which gives an undeniably shiny effect) and plan to apply 2 coats. To be sure you're making the right choice, don't hesitate to ask your DIY shop or a professional painter for advice. You can also ask the manufacturer of your conservatory to recommend the right type of paint and give you the best advice to avoid making any mistakes.
Choose the right colour
Opt for long-lasting colour
And don't forget that the aluminium colour you choose will have to please you for many years to come! It's important to match the colour to your taste, your joinery and your style of home, so that you don't get bored with it and it doesn't go out of fashion.
For example, choose anthracite grey, a contemporary colour with a contemporary feel, or white, which will revive the previous, slightly aged tone of your conservatory and, above all, will be bright and timeless.
Use the right tools and preferably paint flat.
Roller, brush or spray can will be your allies! Use a roller to apply a thin, even coat of paint to the aluminium structure. Keep a paintbrush nearby to help you apply the paint in hard-to-reach corners and for finishing touches. As for the spray can, it will save you time as long as you protect any nearby areas that don't need painting.
Getting ready to paint? For an all-aluminium conservatory that's already been installed, it's best to dismantle the leaves and doors and lay them flat on trestles that have been protected with foam; this will make it easier for you to apply the paint and avoid drips.
If you can, remove any parts that might get in the way: handles, hardware, etc. They won't get in the way when you're painting and will be protected from any splashes.
Make sure you also protect the glazing, seals and other equipment in your conservatory, such as roller shutters, sunbreakers, etc.
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