Chalking of powder-coated finish on aluminium frames

Older powder-coated aluminium frames may have a white or grey chalky discolouration of the surface

Causes

Exposure to air-borne salt, dust or dirt 

Lack of cleaning

End of serviceable life - the expected life of powder-coated finishes is typically 12–20 years

Common

Cause

Exposure to air-borne salt, dust or dirt 

Repair

  • clean frames with warm water and mild detergent; rinse off thoroughly. Do not use solvents, harsh chemicals, abrasive or caustic cleaners to clean aluminium, do not use a metal scraper or abrasive pad
  • finishing options include:
    • painting: sand lightly; paint in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions
    • wax finish: apply car wax to the clean, dry anodised surface in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions

Cause

Lack of cleaning

Repair

  • instigate a regular cleaning regime: clean frames with warm water and mild detergent; rinse off thoroughly. Do not use solvents, harsh chemicals, abrasive or caustic cleaners to clean aluminium, do not use a metal scraper or abrasive pad
  • finishing options include:
    • painting: sand lightly; paint in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions
    • wax finish: apply car wax to the clean, dry anodised surface in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions

Cause

End of serviceable life - the expected life of powder-coated finishes is typically 12–20 years

Repair

  • clean frames with warm water and mild detergent; rinse off thoroughly. Do not use solvents, harsh chemicals, abrasive or caustic cleaners to clean aluminium, do not use a metal scraper or abrasive pad
  • finishing options include: (a) painting: sand lightly; paint in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions; (b) wax finish: apply car wax to the clean, dry anodised surface in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions
  • instigate a regular cleaning regime