How long will a restored powder coated frame last?

There is no honest blanket figure. It depends on the existing powder coat, orientation, exposure, preparation, selected system and aftercare. We inspect and adhesion-test the frame first, then assess the selected specification against the manufacturer's product information.

What colour match can I expect?

We identify the RAL code on site using a Pantone bridge or direct match, then produce a sample card for sign off. The final match is close and visually uniform, though not identical to a factory fresh extrusion. The brand palette stays consistent across the estate.

Will restoration affect glazing or signage?

No. All glass, rubber gaskets, ironmongery and signage are masked and protected before the primer stage and rechecked at demask. We work around the frame without disturbing seals.

Can you restore frames while the shop is trading?

Yes, that is our default. We phase the work, use extended masking and schedule overnight shifts where the access plan allows. The phasing is planned around keeping the customer entrance open.

How does restoration cost compare with replacement?

Restoration avoids removing sound frames, glazing and gaskets, but the actual comparison depends on frame condition, access, masking and the replacement specification. We price the surveyed restoration scope rather than publish a blanket saving percentage.

Insights · restoration

Can powder coated aluminium frames be restored instead of replaced?

Tomas Nejedly, Managing Director · published 10 June 2026 · reviewed 20 August 2026

Yes, when the existing frames are structurally sound and the powder coat passes an adhesion test. A matched RAL or BS colour can then be applied over a compatible tie coat without removing the frame. Cost and durability depend on the surveyed condition, exposure, access and selected system, so neither should be promised from a photograph.

Why do powder coated aluminium frames fade?

The causes stack together. South and west facing elevations catch the harshest UV exposure, which chalks the top layer and drains colour depth. Airborne pollution, coastal salt and general weathering accelerate the loss. Harsh cleaning strips the surface faster: abrasive pads, strong solvents or misapplied pressure washing. Oxidation and staining then build up, but they remain treatable on site as long as the underlying aluminium is not perforated.

How does restoration on site work?

We survey each frame, take a gloss reading on a clean area and identify the RAL or BS colour with a Pantone bridge or direct match. An adhesion test confirms the old powder coat will hold a tie coat. The specification then calls for a two pack tie coat over light abrasion, followed by a matched topcoat applied at a 60-80 micron dry film build. All glazing, gaskets and ironmongery are masked first and checked at demask. The job is phased around live trading, often with overnight shifts.

Restoration vs replacement: how do they compare?

Factor	Restoration on site	Full replacement
Typical cost relation	Survey-priced for preparation, access, masking and coating	Full capital cost of new frame, glazing and fitting
Programme time	Days to weeks, phased	Weeks to months across procurement, manufacture and install
Disruption to trading	Minimal; masked and phased around live operations	Often needs partial or full closure and hoarding
Frame removal	No removal	Complete removal and disposal
Expected service life	System and substrate dependent; manufacturer terms vary by specification	Per the new frame manufacturer's warranty
When it does not work	Structural failure, perforation, or failed adhesion test	When access or planning constraints rule out removal

When restoration is not the right answer

Restoration only goes ahead if the frame is structurally sound. If the aluminium has corroded through, is perforated, or an adhesion test shows the existing powder coat will not bond, we flag a replacement recommendation at survey stage. Our service does not include reglazing or gasket renewal; if seals have failed and water is tracking inside the unit, a separate glazing scope is needed before coating. And where a structural engineer has already condemned the frame, restoration is not an option.

Frequently asked questions

How long will a restored powder coated frame last?: There is no honest blanket figure. It depends on the existing powder coat, orientation, exposure, preparation, selected system and aftercare. We inspect and adhesion-test the frame first, then assess the selected specification against the manufacturer's product information.
What colour match can I expect?: We identify the RAL code on site using a Pantone bridge or direct match, then produce a sample card for sign off. The final match is close and visually uniform, though not identical to a factory fresh extrusion. The brand palette stays consistent across the estate.
Will restoration affect glazing or signage?: No. All glass, rubber gaskets, ironmongery and signage are masked and protected before the primer stage and rechecked at demask. We work around the frame without disturbing seals.
Can you restore frames while the shop is trading?: Yes, that is our default. We phase the work, use extended masking and schedule overnight shifts where the access plan allows. The phasing is planned around keeping the customer entrance open.
How does restoration cost compare with replacement?: Restoration avoids removing sound frames, glazing and gaskets, but the actual comparison depends on frame condition, access, masking and the replacement specification. We price the surveyed restoration scope rather than publish a blanket saving percentage.

For a frame survey and a cost comparison for your site, start at our powder coated frame restoration page.