The Problem: Oxidation and Finish Degradation on ACP
Alucobond and other Aluminum Composite Panels (ACP) are chosen for modern commercial high-rises because of their sleek aesthetic and durability. However, over decades of exposure to harsh UV radiation and environmental pollutants, the factory finish (typically a PVDF or Kynar coating) begins to degrade.
This degradation manifests as a dull, chalky appearance. Furthermore, because these panels are often situated beneath precast concrete or glass, they become a catch-all for severe surface contaminants. Common issues include:
- Mineral Leaching: Calcium and silica runoff from unsealed stone or concrete above.
- Environmental Pollutants: Deeply embedded exhaust grime, carbon, and industrial smog.
- Biological Growth: Mold and mildew accumulation in highly shaded or damp areas of the facade.
Why Standard “Washing” Fails
When building owners see chalky or stained Alucobond, their first instinct is to hire a standard pressure washing crew. This is a costly mistake. Standard soap and water cannot remove calcified mineral leaching. Worse, using high-pressure or harsh acidic cleaners will permanently etch and strip the remaining factory protective coat, accelerating the panel’s destruction.
The Presto Engineering Solution: Restoring the Factory Finish
Presto Restoration provides an engineered approach to Alucobond Restoration Services. We return the panels to their original luster for a fraction of the cost of total replacement or full-scale repainting. We achieve this through a precise, phased methodology:
Phase 1: Precision Micro-Abrasion (Surface Prep)
To remove heavy oxidation, deep stains, and mineral deposits, we utilize proprietary, architectural-grade abrasive compounds. This process performs a “micro-abrasion” on the panel. It acts like a high-end clear-coat polish on a luxury vehicle – removing the microscopic layer of dead, oxidized coating without burning through to the bare aluminum beneath.
Phase 2: Protective Clear Coatings
Once the underlying color and luster are restored, the panels are vulnerable to the elements. We immediately seal the metal using Presto’s high-performance silicone and acrylic clear coatings. These proprietary treatments act as a sacrificial shield, hiding minor surface imperfections while providing durable, long-lasting protection against future UV damage and moisture.
Phase 3: Pigmented Coatings (The Last Resort)
In severe cases where the original factory coating has completely failed, flaked off, or worn down to the bare aluminum, clear coats and polishing are no longer viable. In these specific instances, we apply specialized pigmented architectural coatings to completely resurface the panel. While pigmented coatings require more future maintenance than restored bare panels, they remain significantly more cost-effective than replacing the physical ACP system.
The Proof is in the Mock-Up
We know that Facility Managers need to prove ROI before authorizing a facade project. That is why Presto does not guess, we test.
Before we take on the entire building, we perform a live, on-site test on a small, inconspicuous section of your Alucobond panels. We present a side-by-side comparison showing standard cleaning versus our full restoration process. Property owners are consistently amazed that panels they thought were “dead” can be brought back to a like-new condition.
Protect Your Aluminum Assets
Coupled with our Glass Restoration and Waterproofing Services, our Alucobond restoration process ensures your total building envelope is protected, efficient, and visually striking.
Is your metal facade looking chalky or stained?
Contact Presto Restoration today or call us at 1-800-785-9927 to schedule an envelope inspection and request an on-site Alucobond restoration mock-up.
