Anodized Finish

Stock option: "Clear Anodized" & "Dark Bronze Anodized", Class I
Custom options: Custom Earth tones

Anodizing:
Anodizing is a electrochemical process of converting the surface of aluminum to aluminum oxide (controlled corrosion). This process produces a hard surface that is long lasting, resists scratching and abrasion and provides excellent protection from the sun's ultraviolet rays. Because this coating is an integral part of the aluminum, it will not peel or chip.
An anodized finish can have a rich aluminum tone called clear anodized or an earth tone color can be added. Anodizing gives aluminum a deeper, richer metallic appearance that is not possible with paint. Anodizing is less affected by sunlight than paint. Because of variables such as temperature, aluminum composition etc., slight variations in color and gloss will exist. This is to be expected and it is important that this characteristic be considered when choosing anodizing. One reason clear and dark bronze have become the industry standard anodized colors is because they have the least amount of color variation and are therefore easier to reproduce and match earlier batches.

When considering anodizing over paint you have to be realistic about its nature. By nature, paint is consistent in finish color and sheen whereas anodizing is inconsistent in both. However, it is this irregularity that exudes the natural "character" of anodized finishes. As one looks at an anodized finish they are actually looking at the metal surface behind the finish whereas painting hides these imperfections.