How to Refurbish Oxidized Aluminum

Anodized aluminum extrusions can fade and oxidize. Anodized aluminum can get ugly pits from salt corrosion if located near the ocean. Even new anodized aluminum can be ruined by stucco or mortar on new buildings. Powder-Coated or painted aluminum window frames will also need to be restored because they fade and chalk.
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Everbrite Coating and ProtectaClear® are clear protective coatings that will restore the color and finish on dull and faded anodized aluminum and will protect them from oxidation, corrosion and other damaging elements. This procedure can also be used to refurbish and protect aluminum curtain wall. ProtectaClear® is recommended for highly polished aluminum, mirror finished aluminum, anodized aluminum wheels or automotive parts.
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How-To Refurbish Oxidized, Faded or Stained Anodized Aluminum,
Powder-coated Aluminum or Painted Aluminum.

Click here for Downloadable Instructions
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Anodized aluminum extrusions can fade and oxidize. Aluminum can get ugly pits from salt corrosion if located near the ocean. Faded or chalky window frames or aluminum joinery can ruin the appearance of your home or building.
Everbrite™ is a clear protective coating that will restore the color and luster on dull, faded or stained aluminum and will protect from oxidation, corrosion, salts and other damaging elements. This procedure can also be used to refurbish faded or oxidized aluminum curtain wall, patio furniture, window frames, store fronts or other oxidized aluminum.
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Preparation

1. Use an approved scrubber pad. Prep Pads are available from Everbrite, Inc. and are included with your Aluminum Restoration Kit. A blue or white ScotchBrite pad can also be used.

2. Rinse the aluminum with water.

3. Use the Prep Pad and diluted EZ-Prep solution to scrub gently with the grain to remove chalk, oxidation, dirt and any mold etc.

4. Rinse with fresh water until the water sheets off of the metal. Do NOT let the cleaner dry on the surface, it will be more difficult to remove. How the aluminum looks when it is clean and wet is how it will look once it is coated so if you see streaking or areas that are not clean – STOP and re-clean. Do not coat over oxidation or dirt.

5. Wipe dry with microfiber cloth. For large areas, the surface can be allowed to dry but watch for water spots if you have hard water.

6. Check to ensure that the metal is completely clean and dry before coating.

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Coating Application
Do not apply the coating if the metal is hot or in the direct sun over 85 degrees F. Metal in the shade is normally not too hot.
Materials needed:

• Everbrite Coating.

• Applicator- clear-coat applicator (included with your kit) or a natural bristled paint brush that is solvent-rated.

• Metal Application pan- a metal paint pan or disposable mini loaf pans work well. 

• Personal Protection: Nitrile or chemical protective gloves to protect your hands. (Rubber gloves will get sticky)

1. Pour a small amount of Everbrite Coating into a clean, dry metal container. Do not use plastic. DO NOT DILUTE EVERBRITE COATINGS WITH ANYTHING ELSE.

2. Dip the applicator pad into the Everbrite Coating. The applicator should be completely wet but should not be dripping.

3. Apply the Everbrite to the surface, letting the applicator glide across the surface. Do NOT press hard. The applicator should glide smoothly, when it starts sticking, dip applicator in the coating again. If you get drips or runs on the surface, simply wipe them out with your applicator before the coating dries.

4. Once you apply the coating, leave it alone and let the coating dry. It will self-level as it dries. The coating will dry to touch in about 15-40 minutes depending on the temperature & humidity.

5. Any missed areas or thin areas can be touched up after the coating is dry to touch. Don’t try to fix the coating as it dries, let it dry and then reapply.

6. ***If you see streaks, it is generally caused by not having the coating evenly distributed throughout the applicator or by pressing too hard and not leaving enough coating on the surface.

 
Everbrite Coating will renew the color and finish of any color aluminum very effectively. In high-use areas or for highly polished marine or automotive anodized aluminum, use ProtectaClear® which is more scratch-resistant.