Whether you own a wooden or aluminum greenhouse, it requires frequent maintenance. Once a year you have to give your greenhouse a deep clean – in spring or fall. Besides that you need to make sure that you replace broken glazing panels on time.
Don’t forget that maintenance of wooden greenhouse framework is different from how you need to look after aluminum greenhouse. I put together a step-by-step guide on how to clean aluminum framework which is easy to follow.
In most cases replacing broken panels, spot cleaning and general maintenance are enough to keep the structure functional for longer. However, some gardeners are wondering if it is possible to paint an aluminum greenhouse.
Although painting aluminum greenhouse is possible, you need to prime the surface and apply paint for metals. Generally, it is a time-consuming and expensive task. For the best results the greenhouse has to be powder coated which colors silver aluminum frame green and protects it from rust and discoloration.
How to paint aluminum greenhouse?
The success of painting aluminum greenhouse depends on using primer first and then applying spray paint. So, to paint silver aluminum greenhouse green you need to use Self-Etching Primer on aluminum which promotes maximum adhesion and smoothness of the top coat. Then apply a few coats of spray paint for metal and finish with a coat of sealer.
I would recommend painting greenhouse when you just ordered it, so right before assembling. That way you can lay all the parts flat and apply paint equally. If you want to paint an existing greenhouse, you would need to remove the glass or polycarbonate panels which is dangerous and time-consuming.
Moreover, if you own an aluminum greenhouse with polycarbonate panels, there is a number of different systems available involving clips, bars and slots. So, you need to be careful not to paint these parts. If the paint gets into the slots that the polycarbonate panels fit into, it can interfere with the fit of the panels.
What paint to use on aluminum greenhouse frame?
Aluminum has non-porous surface which doesn’t hold paint well. Also, it forms an oxide coating that protects the metal beneath. That is why you need to use a Self-Etching Primer. Its special formulation contains chemicals that micro-etch the surface of the aluminum for the best bond possible.
The easiest way is to purchase a spray primer and spray it on the frame in thin coats. Let it dry completely and then you can apply paint. To paint aluminium greenhouse frame you need to use acrylic or latex paint designed for use on metal. Also make sure that it is for outdoor use. Most of the time it will have a label “exterior grade”.
You can spray the paint or use a brush. It depends on the size of your greenhouse and your personal preference. You might need to apply a multiple number of coats (read the paint manufacturer’s notes). Make sure that the surface is completely dry between paintings.
The final step is to apply a minimum of two coats of enamel sealer. It not only prevents paint from chipping, but also protects painted aluminum from scratching and fading over the years. Here is an example of a sealer you can use for aluminum greenhouse frame.
Green aluminum greenhouse frame
On the market you might come across green aluminum greenhouses. The green finish is powder coating that not only allows greenhouse to fit with the interior but also protects aluminum frame from oxidizing and pitting. Powder coated options are available in a variety of colors:
- Green
- Brown
- Black
- Blue
That way you can make sure that greenhouse structure fits into the garden’s color scheme. However, getting powder coated finish will cost a few hundred backs more rather than just buying plain aluminum frame. But what exactly is powder coating?
It is a process of applying dry paint to a part. The paint is applied electrostatically and then is cured under heat. It makes surface resistant to chipping, scratching, fading and wearing off. Moreover, it protects the whole structure from rust and discoloration.
Is it worth painting silver aluminum greenhouse green?
Plain silver aluminum greenhouse is pretty much maintenance free with simple cleaning routine. Considering the size of the structure, costs of primer, paint and sealer as well as the time it takes to do the job, it is not worth the effort just to make a greenhouse look prettier.
Although, if it is crucial for you that greenhouse structure fits perfectly into the garden’s aesthetic, then I would suggest thinking about powder coating instead of painting greenhouse yourself. First of all, powder coating is tougher than wet paint because of the thermal bonding it undergoes.
Secondly, polyester powders have high color and gloss retention. As a result, higher color retention withstands long term exposure to sunlight and moisture that lead to loss of adhesion. It is extremely important for outdoor structures like a greenhouse.
I hope that you found this information useful, if you have any questions about painting aluminum frame or looking after the greenhouse structure, get in touch with me by using a contact form.
Happy growing!
