Does Your Manufacturer Meet Powder-Coating Certification Levels AAMA 2604 & 2605?
Railings | March 27, 2024
When evaluating if a manufacturer meets the AAMA 2604 and 2605 powder-coating certifications, it is important to conduct a thorough assessment. These certifications are benchmarks for performance standards in organic coatings on aluminum extrusions and railings, primarily for architectural applications. At Vista Architectural, we understand that these standards and the verification process is crucial for architects, engineers, and project managers seeking high-quality materials for their projects. That is why we have put together some information to help you determine whether or not your manufacturer meets powder-coating certification levels AAMA 2604 and 2605.
Understanding the Standards
Understanding the standards and the meaning behind them is a key part of project management. Here is a brief overview of the aforementioned standards set by the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA).
AAMA 2604
This standard is designed for high-performance coatings suitable for most architectural applications, offering good colour and gloss retention, along with resistance to chalking and erosion. This is the typical standard for projects in non-coastal applications.
AAMA 2605
This is the highest standard for powder coatings, requiring superior performance characteristics, including colour retention, chalk resistance, and durability in extreme environments. This is recommended for coastal application and projects that will be subject to constant saltwater exposure such as Hawaii.
Steps to Verify Manufacturer Compliance
As soon as you know which standards are required for your project, you will want to verify whether a potential manufacturer is indeed compliant. Here are some of the steps you can take to ensure compliance:
1. Request Documentation
The first step is to ask the manufacturer for certification documents or test reports proving compliance with AAMA 2604 or 2605. Reputable manufacturers should readily provide these documents.
2. Check the Coating Specifications
Ensure the specifications of the powder coating (type, application process, thickness, etc.) align with those required by the AAMA standards. This includes verifying that the coatings have undergone the appropriate rigorous testing procedures outlined by the AAMA.
3. Look for AAMA Labels
Some products may carry AAMA labels directly on them, indicating their compliance; however, this is not always the case, especially for materials that are part of a larger assembly.
4. Examine Project References
Ask for references or case studies where their products have been used in similar applications. This can provide insight into the real-world performance of their coatings.
5. Site Visit
If possible, visit a project site where the manufacturer’s products have been used. This can offer tangible proof of the coating’s durability and appearance after exposure to environmental conditions.
6. Ask About Warranty
Custom aluminum railing manufacturers confident in their compliance with AAMA standards often offer comprehensive warranties covering colour retention, chalk resistance, and adhesion.
If you would like to learn more about AAMA 2604 and 2605 standards, we would love to help. Contact us via phone or text at +1 800 667-8247 for high-end aluminum railing solutions.
When evaluating if a manufacturer meets the AAMA 2604 and 2605 powder-coating certifications, it is important to conduct a thorough assessment. These certifications are benchmarks for performance standards in organic coatings on aluminum extrusions and railings, primarily for architectural applications. At Vista Architectural, we understand that these standards and the verification process is crucial for architects, engineers, and project managers seeking high-quality materials for their projects. That is why we have put together some information to help you determine whether or not your manufacturer meets powder-coating certification levels AAMA 2604 and 2605.
Understanding the Standards
Understanding the standards and the meaning behind them is a key part of project management. Here is a brief overview of the aforementioned standards set by the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA).
AAMA 2604
This standard is designed for high-performance coatings suitable for most architectural applications, offering good colour and gloss retention, along with resistance to chalking and erosion. This is the typical standard for projects in non-coastal applications.
AAMA 2605
This is the highest standard for powder coatings, requiring superior performance characteristics, including colour retention, chalk resistance, and durability in extreme environments. This is recommended for coastal application and projects that will be subject to constant saltwater exposure such as Hawaii.
Steps to Verify Manufacturer Compliance
As soon as you know which standards are required for your project, you will want to verify whether a potential manufacturer is indeed compliant. Here are some of the steps you can take to ensure compliance:
1. Request Documentation
The first step is to ask the manufacturer for certification documents or test reports proving compliance with AAMA 2604 or 2605. Reputable manufacturers should readily provide these documents.
2. Check the Coating Specifications
Ensure the specifications of the powder coating (type, application process, thickness, etc.) align with those required by the AAMA standards. This includes verifying that the coatings have undergone the appropriate rigorous testing procedures outlined by the AAMA.
3. Look for AAMA Labels
Some products may carry AAMA labels directly on them, indicating their compliance; however, this is not always the case, especially for materials that are part of a larger assembly.
4. Examine Project References
Ask for references or case studies where their products have been used in similar applications. This can provide insight into the real-world performance of their coatings.
5. Site Visit
If possible, visit a project site where the manufacturer’s products have been used. This can offer tangible proof of the coating’s durability and appearance after exposure to environmental conditions.
6. Ask About Warranty
Custom aluminum railing manufacturers confident in their compliance with AAMA standards often offer comprehensive warranties covering colour retention, chalk resistance, and adhesion.
If you would like to learn more about AAMA 2604 and 2605 standards, we would love to help. Contact us via phone or text at +1 800 667-8247 for high-end aluminum railing solutions.