AAMA Specifications

Architects and building owners should determine which performance specification is required, along with the finish color. In order to ensure the powder coat performance expected for a given application, one of three AAMA specifications should be referenced: AAMA 2603, 2604, and 2605. These three specifications apply to progressively stronger levels as indicated by South Florida outdoor exposure and laboratory accelerated testing results as shown below.

AAMA Specifications for Paint and Architectural Powder Coat
Specification 2603 2604 2605
South Florida Weathering:      
Color retention 1 year: "slight" fade 5 yrs: Fade = 5 Delta E 10 yrs: Fade =  5 Delta E
Chalk resistance 1 year: "slight" chalk 5 yrs: Chalk = 8 10 yrs: Chalk = 8
Gloss retention No specification 5 yrs: 30% retention 10 yrs: 50% retention
Erosion resistance No specification 5 yrs: 10% loss 10 yrs: 10% loss
       
Dry film thickness 0.8 mils minimum 1.2 mils minimum 1.2 mils minimum
       
Pretreatment System: Chrome or Chrome Free * Chrome or Chrome Free * Chrome or Chrome Free *
       
Accelerated Testing:      
Salt Spray 1,500 hours 3,000 hours 4,000 hours
Humidity 1,500 hours 3,000 hours 4,000 hours

Linetec is 100% compliant of all AAMA specifications. AAMA's Certification Program Verified Components List is a complete list of window and door component manufacturers who have submitted samples for testing and those samples were found to be in full compliance with the applicable specification.

For detailed spec information or to purchase AAMA specifications visit www.aamanet.org. All AAMA documents may be ordered through the Public Store

Performance of Powder Coat Finishes
2603 powder coat example

AAMA 2603

To meet the AAMA 2603 specification, powder coatings are most often formulated with standard durable polyester binder. AAMA 2603 is typically an interior specification, such as ceiling panels and supports and interior windows. 2603 powders offer good resistance to abrasion, scratching and scuffing, but should be applied where color retention is not required.

2604 powder coat example

AAMA 2604

AAMA 2604 is an "intermediate" specification. 2604 powder coatings are formulated with super durable or modified polyester resins. An ideal application for this paint would be balconies and railings where its toughness gives good resistance to wear. This finish will provide good color and gloss retention for approximately five years of exposure.

2605 Powder coat example

AAMA 2605

AAMA 2605 is the high-performance exterior specification. Depending on the manufacturer, a 2605 powder coat may or may not utilize a fluoropolymer resin (PVDF). These finishes are resistant to moisture, weathering, ozone and UV radiation. An application for this finish would include architectural projects that require long term cosmetic and functional protection.

AAMA Logo

American Architectural Manufacturers Association

Linetec is a longstanding AAMA member. AAMA is the source of performance standards, product certification and educational programs for the fenestration industry.