Those faded aluminium window frames or tired-looking doors can drag down the look of your home. Painting them sounds simple, but aluminium plays by different rules. If you’ve ever tried and watched paint peel a few months later, you’re not alone. Knowing how to paint aluminium properly makes all the difference, especially in Melbourne where the weather can change quickly. Aluminium needs careful preparation and the right primer, otherwise paint won’t stick. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the full process, what tools you’ll need, and when it’s smarter to call in the pros.
Why Painting Aluminium Requires Special Preparation
Aluminium doesn’t rust like steel, but it does oxidise. That chalky white layer you see on old frames is oxidation, and paint won’t bond to it. Skip proper prep and the paint will lift, blister, or peel.
This problem shows up most on aluminium windows, doors, and cladding exposed to sun and rain. For these areas, many homeowners rely on exterior painting specialists to make sure the finish holds up in Melbourne conditions.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before you start, get everything ready. Stopping halfway to grab supplies usually leads to rushed work and poor results.
You’ll need:
- Sugar soap or a proper degreaser
- Clean rags and a bucket
- Sandpaper (180–240 grit for sanding aluminium)
- Self-etching primer or etch primer
- Quality metal paint suitable for aluminium
- Brushes, rollers, or spray equipment
- Drop sheets and masking tape
These are the same tools used by teams providing residential painting services across Melbourne homes.
Step 1: Clean and Degrease the Aluminium Surface
Cleaning isn’t optional. Aluminium frames collect grease, grime, and airborne pollutants, especially in busy Melbourne suburbs.
Wash the surface with sugar soap or a proper degreaser and warm water. Scrub thoroughly, rinse well, and let it dry completely. This preparation method is standard practice for home painting experts working on metal surfaces.
Step 2: Sand and Remove Oxidation
Once clean, sanding aluminium removes oxidation and gives the primer something to grip. Use medium grit sandpaper and work evenly across the surface.
You’re not trying to strip the metal back aggressively. Just dull the surface and remove any chalky residue. Wipe away all dust before moving on.
Step 3: Apply Self-Etching Primer (Critical Step)
This step decides whether the paint lasts or fails. Aluminium must be primed with a self-etching primer that chemically bonds to the metal.
Apply a thin, even coat and follow the manufacturer’s drying times carefully. This is especially important for aluminium window frames exposed to Melbourne’s humidity and temperature changes.
Step 4: Choose the Right Paint for Aluminium
The best paint for aluminium is a quality enamel or acrylic designed specifically for metal surfaces. These paints cope better with heat, moisture, and daily wear.
For aluminium shopfronts, office frames, or business entrances, tougher coatings are usually required. This is why commercial painters are often involved in commercial aluminium work.
Step 5: Apply the Paint (Best Techniques)
Spray painting gives the smoothest finish on aluminium frames, while brush painting works well for doors and flat panels.
Apply two thin coats instead of one thick coat. Allow proper drying time between coats, usually 4 to 6 hours depending on the weather. This careful approach is used across both residential and business property painting projects.
Common Mistakes When Painting Aluminium
Most paint failures come from rushing or cutting corners.
Common mistakes include:
- Skipping degreasing
- Using standard wall primer instead of aluminium primer
- Ignoring oxidation
- Painting in humid or windy conditions
- Rushing drying times
These mistakes often lead to peeling within months.
When to DIY and When to Call a Professional
Small aluminium doors or low-access areas can be manageable DIY projects. Window frames, multi-storey homes, and large exterior areas are far more demanding.
For these jobs, many homeowners choose experienced Melbourne painters who understand aluminium surfaces and local conditions.
Conclusion
Painting aluminium properly comes down to preparation. Clean thoroughly, remove oxidation, and always use a self-etching primer. That single step makes or breaks the result. For window frames, doors, or large exterior projects, professional help can save time and frustration. If you’d like advice or pricing, get a free quote at Hawthorn Painting.