Crystal Windows introduces new metal paint finish for windows

Crystal Window & Door Systems recently introduced an aluminum finish option for its aluminum windows, sliding and terrace doors as an alternative to traditional anodization. The new finish is a state-of-the-art powder coat paint that offers the appearance of clear anodized aluminum, with environmental, cost and other benefits. "Anodization gives a very high-tech look that many upscale properties seek," said Steve Chen, executive vice president at Crystal. "Our alternative finish replicates the appearance of clear anodized aluminum and offers many advantages, without the drawbacks associated with the environmentally harsh anodization process. Offering this alternative to clear anodized aluminum is just one of the many environmentally responsible actions Crystal is taking to promote a 'green' future for all." The aluminum anodization process, compared to powder coat paint finishing, is much more energy intensive, uses environmentally harmful chemicals, necessitates hazardous waste disposal, is limited in color selection and does not guarantee color matching and consistency between components. It frequently has a longer lead-time and especially with small order quantities is more expensive. Anodized aluminum is traditionally used for architectural applications such as glass doors, curtain wall systems, storefronts, windows, and interior decorative metal surfaces. Crystal offers traditional anodized aluminum windows and doors for projects with strict specifications requiring this finish. For many other projects, Crystal's powder coat paint finishing process is much more environmentally benign, offers a wider array of colors, assures color consistency, facilitates field touchup painting of damages, and yields a strong, long-lasting coating. Crystal, certified by world leader PPG as a powder coat finish applicator, uses PPG powder paint products to achieve the anodized look for its aluminum windows and glass doors. The finish meets American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) Specifications for Performance Requirements for Organic Coatings on Aluminum Extrusions and Panels: AAMA 2603-Pigmented Coatings; AAMA 2604-High Performance Organic Coatings; and AAMA 2605-Superior Performing Organic Coatings.