Exceptional durability.
Demonstrated endurance in all conditions and the greatest durability of any European anodiser. Our finishes require minimal maintenance or cleaning.
Anodised aluminium panels with proven endurance.
Anodised aluminium is a versatile, attractive choice for architectural façades which lasts a lifetime. The on-site behaviour of the anodised surfaces produced today is fully predictable, based on our proven, long-term experience anodising for architects since 1971.
That longevity is due to a high level of durability. Anodised aluminium is resistant to almost all forms of damage and degradation, making it suitable for all environments no matter how harsh.
The ‘living surface’ of an anodised finish can be specified with confidence in all environments in the knowledge it will be durable for the entire lifecycle of the building.
Anti-corrosion
Aluminium is more corrosion resistant than iron or steel and anodising enhances that characteristic. A scientifically controlled oxide layer enhances the surface to provide unparalleled corrosion resistance in wind, rain, sun and marine environments.
Anti-abrasion
Aluminium oxide is a very hard compound, second only to diamond on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. Anodised aluminium surfaces therefore offer superior scratch and abrasion resistance when compared to coated surfaces.
No risk of adhesive failure
Anodising transforms the surface of the metal into an oxide layer integral with the metal itself. This eliminates the risk of adhesion failures such as peeling, blistering, cracking, splitting or chipping common to coated finishes.
No filiform corrosion
Filiform corrosion is an attack on the hidden inter-layer between the aluminium and a surface finish which can result in corrosion under the finish. With anodising, the oxide (anodic) layer is integral with the aluminium so there is no inter-layer between the metal where corrosion can thrive.
Impermeability
A sealed anodic layer is impermeable. When severe environmental temperature fluctuations occur, this layer is not subject to damaging physical changes and embrittlement.
Self-repairing
If the surface is punctured or damaged, the aluminium can simply repair itself through natural oxidation.
Dedicated Architect’s Helpline
Call our dedicated Architect’s Helpline to learn more about the durability of our anodised aluminium façades.
Independent confirmation of 40+ year durability.
Independent inspections commissioned by United Anodisers have confirmed our anodic protection remains undiminished after more than 40 years. We’ve been operating from our site in Huddersfield since 1961 and producing Anolok finishes since 1971. Some of our earliest projects are still performing today thanks to the durability of our unique, Anolok anodised aluminium finishes.
In contrast, additive-based coatings create less durable surface finishes, and the methods of application keep changing due to legal and environmental constraints. As a result, the long term, on-site behaviour of these modern coatings has not been proven over the decades like our durable anodised products.
Indeed, some landmark buildings completed in the last 15 years with organic coatings are already showing signs of surface failure – something that you do not get with a more durable anodised finish.
Learn more about the benefits of choosing us for your anodised aluminium façade.
The durability of our finishes is just one reason to choose United Anodisers for your next project. We also offer a range of other benefits, including:
- Lifetime guarantee
- A1 fire rating and sustainability
- Uniformity of colour
- Pure aluminium
- Architect approved
Read more about the benefits and then request your free samples today to see the quality of our anodised aluminium finishes.
Award-winning anodised aluminium projects.
View our award-winning facades and landmark structures, featuring our full spectrum of anodised aluminium colours and finishes. Find inspiration from projects in the UK and around the world which demonstrate the versatility and durability of United Anodisers’ solutions for leading architects, main contractors, and facade manufacturers.
