ARCHITECTURAL ANODIZING:
2-STEP ELECTROLYTIC

2-step electrolytic anodizing is a two-stage process. Aluminum is first anodized, then metallic pigments are electrodeposited into the anodic layer to create color. The result is a deeper, more stable color than dye-based anodizing.

The difference is coating thickness. Class I requires an anodic coating of at least 0.7 mil (18 microns) and is typically specified for exterior and high-exposure applications. Class II covers 0.4 to 0.7 mil (10–18 microns), commonly used for interior or lighter-duty exterior work. NIA anodizes to both classes.

NIA’s primary line anodizes parts up to 27.5 feet long in a single run. That covers most architectural extrusions, curtain wall and storefront components, railings, and façade panels. Anodizing the full length at once avoids color variation at seams, a common problem when long parts are split across runs.

Yes. It’s the preferred anodized finish for exterior architecture. Electrodeposited metallic color resists UV fading far better than dye-based color, and AAMA 611 Class I coatings are specified for high-exposure exterior work. With proper maintenance, an electrolytic anodized finish can last the full lifecycle of a building.