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Unlocking Elegance: Sanded vs. Mill Finish Aluminum

December 22, 2023

Unlocking Elegance: Sanded vs. Mill Finish Aluminum

mill finish
fully prepared for powdercoat

In the world of gates and railings, the seemingly small decision between sanded and mill finish holds the key to unlocking a realm of quality and aesthetics. At Hunters Woods Outdoors, we recognize the distinction between mere adequacy and true premium craftsmanship. Here's an insider's look into our finishing processes that make a world of difference in the end product.


Mill Finish: The Really Raw Material

Mill finish exposes the raw, untreated surface direct from the manufacturer complete with variations of color and weather staining. While it exudes an industrial charm, this option struggles with paint or powdercoat adherence, especially in demanding environments like marine or high humidity settings.


Problems with Mill Finish Aluminum:

1. Surface Contaminants: Mill finish arrives with surface contaminants such as oils, oxides, or residues from the manufacturing process. These hinder powdercoat adhesion and can compromise both weld strength and appearance.

2. Uneven Surface Textures: The inherent unevenness in mill finish surfaces jeopardizes the overall quality of the final product.


Crafting Perfection: The Hunters Woods Outdoors Solution


Our dedication to premium quality dictates that all our stock undergoes meticulous preparation before welding and the final finish. Here's how we turn the ordinary into extraordinary:


1. Sanding to Perfection: Sanding to at least 80 grit smoothes out imperfections, creating a micro-rough surface that powdercoat permanently locks on.

2. Uniform Texture: The consistent texture resulting from sanding guarantees that your gate or railing maintains a harmonious look from top to bottom and side to side. A uniformly smooth surface on all sides ensures premium curb appeal.

3. Longevity Assured: The enhanced bonding provided by proper surface preparation means your gate will look impeccable for the long haul, not just in its initial years.


Any fabrication company can acquire metal, weld it together, and rush it off for powder coating. However, at HWO, we take the time to meticulously produce a properly finished premium product that adds enduring beauty and value to your home.


At Hunters Woods Outdoors, proper surface preparation is a given. We uphold a standard where subpar products never leave our shop—a testament to our commitment to customers and the creation of top-tier gates and railings.

By Hunter Mellring November 5, 2024
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