About curtain wall spraying

Curtain wall spraying is the on-site refurbishment of aluminium curtain walling, facade frames, mullions, transoms, window frames, shopfronts and commercial entrance systems. It is used to restore or change the appearance of existing facade systems without removing or replacing them.

For commercial property owners, curtain wall spraying can be a practical way to modernise a building, improve kerb appeal, support a rebrand or prepare a property for letting, sale or occupation. It is often used where the existing aluminium system is structurally sound but visually tired, faded, scratched or dated.

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Where curtain wall spraying is used

This service is commonly used on:

• Office buildings
• Retail parks
• Showrooms
• Hotels
• Schools and colleges
• Healthcare buildings
• Mixed-use developments
• Commercial entrance screens
• Shopfront systems
• Business parks and managed estates

Projects can range from small shopfront colour changes to full multi-elevation facade refurbishments. Refurbs plans the programme around access, weather, tenant activity and building operations.

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Suitable substrates and systems

Curtain wall spraying is usually applied to aluminium, powder-coated metal, shopfront sections, window frames, facade trims and associated metalwork. The existing coating must be assessed before a new system is specified.

Adhesion is critical. Aluminium and factory-coated substrates need correct cleaning, abrasion and priming to allow the new coating to bond properly. Where required, test areas or adhesion checks can be completed before full works proceed.

Typical coating systems may include adhesion primers, etch primers and two-pack polyurethane topcoats. The chosen system depends on exposure, colour, durability requirements and the existing substrate.

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Surface preparation

Preparation normally includes cleaning, degreasing, abrasion, dust removal, masking and priming. Any loose coating, corrosion or contamination must be addressed before spraying.

Masking is a major part of curtain wall spraying. Glass, seals, vents, doors, signage, masonry, cladding, paving and neighbouring surfaces must be protected. Clean lines around glazing and seals are essential for a professional finish.

Refurbs plans protection before work begins so the site remains controlled and surrounding areas are not affected by overspray.

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Application process

Once preparation is complete, coatings are applied in controlled spray passes. Spray application gives a factory-like finish across aluminium profiles, frame edges and complex facade details.

The works can be phased by elevation, floor, access zone or tenant area. This is useful for occupied commercial buildings where entrances, shopfronts or office access must remain operational.

Weather conditions are monitored on external projects. Wind, rain, temperature and surface moisture can all affect application and drying.

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Benefits of curtain wall spraying

Curtain wall spraying can deliver a major visual upgrade without replacing sound facade systems. It reduces waste, limits disruption and can be more cost-effective than removal and replacement.

Key benefits include:

• Modernises dated aluminium frames
• Supports building rebrands
• Improves external presentation
• Avoids unnecessary facade replacement
• Suitable for phased commercial works
• Provides durable colour change options
• Can be coordinated with wider refurbishment

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Working around live buildings

Many curtain wall spraying projects take place on occupied offices, retail sites or public-facing premises. Refurbs agrees access, exclusion zones, tenant communication, working hours and safety controls before work begins.

Where entrances or public areas are involved, works can be phased or completed during quieter periods. RAMS are provided and access equipment is managed safely.

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Why choose Refurbs

Refurbs brings commercial project management to facade spraying. We understand access planning, live-site coordination, protection, weather windows and communication with stakeholders.

With NuColour Ltd governance, CHAS accreditation and GBP 10 million public liability insurance behind the brand, clients have a contractor set up for commercial and industrial projects.