When designing a building, selecting the right louver color and finish can impact both the aesthetic appeal and durability of the structure. Many louver finishes rely on advanced paint applications to withstand weathering, UV exposure, and environmental wear. Understanding the two primary paint types—powder coating and liquid application—along with their performance under industry testing standards, can help make an informed choice.

This guide explains each finish type and their corresponding testing standards, AAMA 2604 and AAMA 2605, so you can select a louver finish that meets both aesthetic and durability needs.

Types of Louver Finishes

1. Powder Coating

Powder coating is a dry finishing process where a powder made of resin, pigment, and additives is electrostatically applied to the louvers and then cured under heat. This process creates a uniform, durable finish that resists chipping, scratching, and fading. Powder coating is highly popular due to its ability to deliver vibrant colors with minimal environmental impact, as it typically doesn’t involve solvents.

Benefits of Powder Coating:

High Durability: Withstands abrasion and resists fading better than some liquid coatings.
Environmental Friendliness: No volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making it a more sustainable choice.
Color Variety: Available in a wide range of colors and textures to match any design.

Testing Standards: Powder coatings often meet the AAMA 2604 standard, which subjects finishes to tests for color retention, gloss retention, chalk resistance, and erosion. While durable, powder coatings under AAMA 2604 are typically suited for less extreme weather conditions.

2. Liquid Application

Liquid application, also known as liquid paint, uses a solvent-based or water-based paint that is sprayed onto the louver surface. Once applied, it cures to form a protective, smooth finish. Liquid application is valued for its high-quality appearance and flexibility, often yielding a thinner finish than powder coating. It is also easier to achieve certain color tones and metallic effects with liquid paint.

Benefits of Liquid Application:

Enhanced Aesthetic Range: Allows for metallic, pearlescent, and complex color variations.
Uniform Finish: Ideal for achieving a smooth and even surface, especially for intricate designs.
Easier Repair: More convenient for touch-ups or repairs in the field.

Testing Standards: Liquid finishes often adhere to AAMA 2605, a higher-performance standard than AAMA 2604. AAMA 2605 coatings undergo rigorous testing for UV resistance, color retention, chalk resistance, gloss retention, and corrosion resistance. Finishes meeting this standard are ideal for coastal or high-sunlight areas where color stability and corrosion resistance are critical.

Understanding AAMA Testing Standards

The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA), now Fenestration & Glazing Industry Alliance (FGIA) developed two primary testing standards for louver finishes, each indicating a different level of durability and suitability for environmental exposure.

AAMA 2604: This standard ensures that finishes withstand up to five years in harsh conditions without significant degradation. It tests finishes for color and gloss retention, chalk resistance, and resistance to environmental factors. AAMA 2604-compliant finishes are suitable for moderate climates and are often used for powder-coated louvers.
AAMA 2605: A higher-performance standard, AAMA 2605 requires finishes to maintain their properties for up to 10 years under severe weathering conditions. The standard includes stringent tests for UV exposure, salt spray, humidity, and chemical resistance, making AAMA 2605-compliant finishes ideal for extreme environments like coastal regions or areas with intense sunlight. Most liquid-applied finishes achieve this level of durability.

Comparing Powder Coating and Liquid Application

Choosing the Right Finish for Your Louvers

When selecting a finish, consider both the climate and the building’s aesthetic goals:

For extreme climates or high-sunlight areas, AAMA 2605-compliant liquid finishes are preferable due to their superior durability and UV resistance.
For moderate climates, AAMA 2604-compliant powder coatings provide ample protection and a sustainable, VOC-free option.
Aesthetic preferences may also guide your choice, as liquid applications offer greater flexibility for complex colors and finishes.

Aire-Renaissance by OSA: Providing Quality Louver Finishes

At Aire-Renaissance by OSA, we offer both powder-coated and liquid-applied finishes to meet your specific project needs. Our louvers are designed to meet or exceed AAMA 2604 and AAMA 2605 standards, ensuring high-quality, long-lasting finishes in any environment. With our custom color options and advanced finish solutions, you can achieve both functionality and visual appeal.

For the best in louver finishes that balance durability and design, Aire-Renaissance by OSA should be your first choice.

Louver Finishes: Choosing the Right Paint for Durability and Aesthetics