Qualicoat & Seaside: DUCO's Commitment to Durable Aluminium Surface Treatment
In the case of aluminium façade and solar shading products, the quality of the surface treatment largely determines their lifespan, appearance and resistance to corrosion. That is why DUCO opts for a finish that meets the strict Qualicoat standards and applies the additional Seaside Class A pre-treatment as standard.
What is Qualicoat?
Qualicoat is an internationally recognised quality label for the surface treatment of aluminium. It is exclusively awarded to powder coating applicators that meet strict European requirements in terms of material use, process control and quality assurance.
The Qualicoat certificate takes into account the specific application and environment — including urban, industrial and coastal zones, as well as façade and solar shading applications subject to elevated moisture or pollution levels. This provides assurance regarding the durability, corrosion resistance and colour retention of coated aluminium.
At DUCO, quality is paramount. To obtain the Qualicoat label, DUCO's powder coating process was thoroughly assessed through multiple inspections and audits by independent bodies. The powder coating process fully complies with European Qualicoat requirements, providing maximum confidence for architects, contractors and end users. Qualicoat-certified companies can be verified at www.qualicoat.net.
Seaside Class A Pre-treatment
For applications exposed to elevated moisture, salt or corrosion, Qualicoat provides an additional layer of protection: Seaside. DUCO applies Seaside Class A as standard — the most widely used Seaside pre-treatment for architectural aluminium. This deeper chemical pre-treatment significantly improves coating adhesion and long-term corrosion resistance.
Process steps:
- Degreasing
- Etching — minimum 2 g/m² acid (twice the standard Qualicoat requirement)
- Rinsing
- Neutralising
- Certified Qualicoat powder coating process
A Clear Quality Advantage for Façade and Solar Shading Solutions
The combination of Qualicoat and Seaside Class A delivers a durable, aesthetically high-grade finish resistant to the most demanding weather conditions. For DUCO's products, this means:
- A uniform, premium appearance
- Consistent colour, gloss and coverage
- Excellent adhesion and wear resistance
- Outstanding corrosion protection
- Long-term colour and gloss retention
- Lower maintenance and total cost of ownership
With this combination of certified coating and enhanced pre-treatment, DUCO makes an unequivocal commitment to lasting quality. Even after prolonged exposure to wind, rain, UV radiation and salt air, the finish remains durable and aesthetically stable.
Architects, contractors, clients and end users can rely on a dependable, low-maintenance and future-proof finish for aluminium façade and solar shading solutions.
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