How long will a restored powder-coated frame last?

Typically 5-7 years on a sound substrate, confirmed in writing per scheme. The figure depends on orientation, exposure and aftercare. It gives consistent colour depth and protection for the bulk of a typical commercial lease cycle.

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 re-checked 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.

Is restoration cheaper than a standard repaint?

Restoration on a powder-coated frame is not a quick coat of paint. It involves a tie-coat and a controlled film build of 60-80 microns dry to secure adhesion and durability. Even so, the saving versus replacement is typically 70% or more.

Insights · restoration

Can powder-coated aluminium frames be restored instead of replaced?

Tomas Nejedly, Managing Director · 10 June 2026

Yes. Most faded powder-coated aluminium frames can be restored on site without removal, typically at a 70% or greater saving against full replacement. A matched RAL or BS colour is applied over a tie-coat on a sound substrate, returning consistent colour depth and weather protection for 5-7 years, provided the frame is structurally intact and passes an adhesion test.

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 mis-applied 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 on-site restoration 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	On-site restoration	Full replacement
Typical cost relation	Typically a 70%+ saving on a sound substrate	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	5-7 years on a sound substrate, confirmed in writing per scheme	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?: Typically 5-7 years on a sound substrate, confirmed in writing per scheme. The figure depends on orientation, exposure and aftercare. It gives consistent colour depth and protection for the bulk of a typical commercial lease cycle.
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 re-checked 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.
Is restoration cheaper than a standard repaint?: Restoration on a powder-coated frame is not a quick coat of paint. It involves a tie-coat and a controlled film build of 60-80 microns dry to secure adhesion and durability. Even so, the saving versus replacement is typically 70% or more.

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