Search our quarter-million Q&As

Home of the finishing HOTLINE since 1989

-----

How can a person anodize aluminum at home?

What process can a individual who makes something out of aluminum that is going to be used in and around salt water use to anodize it at home using easily located items for the process? Thanking anyone in advance for any and all information on this subject.

James E. Manley, Jr.
Foxfire Armory - Chesterfield, Virginia, USA
2003

I too am looking for a somewhat similar solution. Specifically, I am looking for a process/product that will give the appearance of exposed aluminum the same appearance as oxidized tin/iron (rust colored). I realize alum. does not oxidize the same color and speed as iron - but I want to simulate the look. As far as solutions go, cheaper trumps faster, but I am open to all solutions. Thanks for reading this and (hopefully) responding. ken

Ken Hayes
Tampa, Florida, USofA
2003

---

You won't accomplish this with chemical treatment. You'll need a paint. The major manufacturers like Rustoleum offer paints to simulate a rusted finish.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
Need quick confidential answers? $25
Need project assistance? $100/hr.
2003

Sorry! Finishing.com is temporarily Read-Only.
Ted Mooney is retiring but I have several offers to take it over.
We're working hard to make sure we find it the best new home.

---

---