Sound technical content, curated with aloha by
Ted Mooney, P.E. RET
Pine Beach, NJ
The authoritative public forum
for Metal Finishing since 1989
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Staining on anodized aluminum window frames
Q. I am an Architect in Pennsylvania. A recently completed project is having extensive issues with discoloration of the dark bronze anodized window frames. Of course everyone involved in the process says its not their fault. The staining varies from just a darkening of the metal to a brilliant blue. I believe that it is probably not a metal finishing issues but a contamination from other materials. The staining streaks from the stainless steel flashing above but is also very strong at the sill, where it may be collecting as it runs down the window. The windows are surrounded by silicone sealant and an acrylic stucco system. Also the stainless steel flashing is sealed with an asphalt based tape behind the stucco system.
Architect - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
April 30, 2009
Q. Was the cause of this staining ever identified?
Scott MacIntyre- Halifax, NS, Canada
September 24, 2010
A. Hi, I went through a major remodel and had the same issue with my windows. The rainbow staining went away when my contractor rubbed WD40 ⇦this on eBay or Amazon [affil links] on the frames. Give that a try!
BP Pimentel- Encinitas, California
March 9, 2024
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