An Architects Guide to AAMA 2603, 2604 & 2605 in Layman’s Terms

Posted by Grace Kallhoff on 29 July 2019

If you are an expert in specifying FGIA/AAMA 2603, 2604 and 2605 coatings, PLEASE STOP READING IMMEDIATELY. 

Ok, you’re still here, so let me make this as simple and straightforward as possible…the Fenestration & Glazing Industry Association (FGIA - previously known the American Architectural Manufacturers Association, better known as AAMA) has authored a myriad of voluntary specifications, that include testing and performance requirements, for many components of the architectural manufacturing industry. I am going to clarify the three coatings specifications for you. First, let’s clear something up. [The AAMA coating specifications apply to ALL PERFORMANCE ARCHITECTURAL COATINGS equally. People so often think the AAMA specifications are just for liquid coatings as these are the same specifications high performance liquid paints meet. This is incorrect – they are for coatings – so whether it is a liquid coating or a powder coating, these specifications apply. Anodized is different - it changes the substrate itself - so it is classed as a finish rather than a coating and thus comes with its own set of AAMA specifications. With this in mind, for coatings there are only three AAMA specifications to be familiar with:

AAMA 2603 – in the powder world, the coatings that meet and exceed the performance requirements of this specification are known as a Standard Polyester coating. This type of powder coating is typically used on interior applications like interior façade, retail POS, or commercial storefront in a mall. Check out the weathering performance requirements below and it’s pretty easy to see why they’re generally recommended for interior architectural applications – the coatings don’t encounter harsh weathering or corrosive environments in most interiors. AAMA states that they must perform to the requirements listed below for at least one year. We all know that in many cases they will certainly outperform that timeframe, which is always good news, but most architects don’t consider 1 year, or even double that, as a suitable check of key performance criteria like color retention.

AAMA 2604 – The powder coatings meeting and exceeding this spec are popularly known  as Super Durable Polyester powders. And these high performance coatings are a Super Investment;  at a minimum they deliver FIVE TIMES the weathering performance of a standard polyester for minimal additional cost. These super durables are often applied to store front, windows, doors and low-rise curtain wall.  Despite the five year weathering requirement listed by AAMA (see below), on aluminum these coatings often come with a ten year warranty as we know they will hold to the same performance parameters for double the length of time required by AAMA. For this reason, and let’s face it, it’s also a  budget-friendly move, super durables are increasingly being used on the interior components of architectural elements such as curtain wall.

AAMA 2605 – Now we’re talking top level coating performance. AAMA 2605 is the mainstay of liquid options like 70% PVDF liquid, but of course there are powder equivalents with the same or better technical performance as these liquid paints, and with an improved environmental impact. Fluoropolymer coatings meet and exceed the AAMA 2605 spec, and there are different types of Fluoropolymers (PVDF, FEVE) that will perform to this level. Most powder companies use 100% FEVE Fluoropolymers to far exceed the AAMA 2605 performance requirements. When you’re looking for the ultimate in exterior performance, these coatings are the best of the best. They are the highest performing architectural coatings available. In many hues, 100% Fluoropolymers are often granted a 20 year warranty for color and gloss on aluminum. Exterior curtain wall is virtually always coated with this powerhouse, as well as many other applications such as façade and windows & doors. Stadiums, monumental buildings, and high-value residences all benefit from the protective and decorative qualities of these awesome coatings

Curious about what actual tests and performance standards AAMA requires? There are many, over 20 in total, but the chart below addresses some of the key AAMA  tests. Of course there’s mechanical and chemical testing, but what we’re so often concerned with is the aesthetics of a coating. If we KNOW that performance isn’t a variable anymore (remember, ALL coatings MUST perform to the standard), then these are the tests which ensure that your coating will look great in years to come. By the way, if you have an obsessive need for information on the rest of those 20+ tests or you have a severe case of insomnia, let us know!  And we can share with you.

See the chart below for a quick reference and comparison of some of the key AAMA standards and tests.

	AAMA 2603	AAMA 2604	AAMA 2605
Humidity resistance	1500 hours Few blisters	3000 hours Blisters size 8	4000 hours Blisters size 8
Salt spray resistance	1000 hours 1-2mm creepage Blisters size 8	1500 hours 1-2mm creepage Blisters size 8	2000 hours 1-2mm creepage Blisters size 8
Florida exposure	1 year	5 years	10 years
Color retention	Slight change	Delta E <5	Delta E <5
Chalk resistance	Slight change	No more than 8 rating	No more than 8 rating, 6 rating for whites
Gloss retention	Slight change	Minimum 30%	Minimum 50%

 

The great thing about these performance specs is it gives you the confidence to make a coating choice based on performance of the coating. When you have that, move on to color and environmental impact.

Most specifiers want to ensure that technical performance is achieved and the coating looks good. Powders that meet and exceed these AAMA specs do just that, and so in the interest of sustainable design, as powders offer an improved sustainability footprint over liquid paint, including powder as a coating option in your spec should be a no-brainer. For more information on the AAMA specs, powder colors and the sustainability advantages of powder, check out our free e-book here!