Does Aluminum Rust? Get Answers to All Your Exterior Access Doors Questions Posted by Best Access Doors Canada on 21st Aug 2024

Aluminum doesn’t rust because it does not contain iron. Rust forms when iron reacts with oxygen and moisture, which is why steel and other iron-based metals are more vulnerable to rust in exterior conditions.

Instead of rusting, aluminum forms a thin aluminum oxide layer when exposed to oxygen. This layer helps protect the surface from further corrosion, making aluminum a strong material choice for exterior access doors.

In this article, we’ll discuss aluminum’s benefits for exterior access doors and address common questions to provide you with all the essential information.

Does Aluminum Rust?

As mentioned, aluminum doesn’t rust. Rust only forms on iron and iron-based metals, such as steel.

When aluminum is exposed to oxygen, it forms aluminum oxide rather than rust. This protective surface layer helps slow down further oxidation and provides aluminum with strong corrosion resistance.

This natural process, known as passivation, gives aluminum its excellent corrosion resistance and makes it an ideal material for exterior applications.

Can Aluminum Corrode Even If It Does Not Rust?

Yes, aluminum can still corrode in certain environments, even though it doesn’t rust.

Aluminum corrosion can happen when the metal is exposed to harsh chemicals, salt-heavy environments, or damaged protective finishes.

You can reduce this risk by choosing the right finish, using high-quality hardware, and maintaining the access door properly. For exterior applications, powder-coated or anodized aluminum doors often provide stronger surface protection.

Why Is Aluminum a Good Material for Exterior Access Doors?

Aluminum is a good material for exterior access doors because it resists rust, handles moisture well, and requires minimal maintenance. It also offers a clean appearance that works with many commercial building designs.

For contractors, facility teams, and property owners, aluminum access doors offer a strong balance of performance and appearance. They’re easier to handle than steel doors and can be used in areas where corrosion resistance is a priority.

What Are the Benefits of Aluminum Exterior Access Doors?

Aluminum exterior access doors offer several advantages for commercial construction projects. They’re built to support long-term access needs while protecting the surrounding wall or ceiling finish.

Let’s look at some of its benefits.

Durable

Aluminum exterior access doors are durable because aluminum naturally resists rust and moisture damage. The aluminum oxide layer helps protect the surface and supports long-term use in exterior applications.

This makes aluminum doors an ideal choice for commercial buildings where durability, service access, and weather exposure must be considered.

Lightweight and Easy to Install

Aluminum is lighter than steel, which makes access doors easier to handle and install. This can help reduce labour demands during construction, especially when multiple doors are being installed across a project.

Its lightweight design can also reduce unnecessary load on surrounding building elements, depending on the installation area and project requirements.

Low Maintenance

Aluminum access doors require minimal upkeep. In most cases, cleaning with mild soap and water is enough to keep the surface looking clean and professional.

Because aluminum doesn’t rust, you don’t have to manage the same rust-related maintenance concerns often associated with untreated or poorly protected steel.

Polished and Sleek

Aluminum exterior access doors can support a clean, modern finish. They’re available with different coatings and finishes, which helps them fit into a wide range of commercial building designs.

One product that not only provides insulation but also enhances the space's appearance is the BAC-PAL Insulated Aluminum Access Door. Its high-quality white powder coat finish from DuPont gives it a sleek, clean look.

The BAC-PAL access door has 1" fibreglass insulation and a neoprene gasket to minimize sound and air transfers between partitions. This makes it an excellent choice for maintaining privacy and energy efficiency. Its robust all-aluminum construction ensures longevity and is ideal for large wall or ceiling openings, particularly in areas where moisture and corrosion are a concern.

Its aluminum continuous piano hinge ensures smooth, reliable operation, while the neoprene gasket around the perimeter offers a tight seal to prevent air and sound leakage.

Energy Efficient

Aluminum access doors can enhance energy efficiency when they include insulation, gaskets, or thermal breaks. These details help reduce unwanted air movement and heat transfer.

For exterior applications, this matters because poorly sealed access points can affect indoor comfort and increase heating or cooling demands.

What Should You Look for in an Aluminum Exterior Access Door?

When choosing an exterior access door, look for corrosion resistance, insulation, a high-quality finish, secure hardware, and the right size for your opening. These details help the access door perform well and match the needs of your project.

Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision.

1. Consider the Environment

Evaluate the specific environmental conditions where the doors will be installed. Aluminum is ideal for coastal areas and locations with high humidity due to its corrosion resistance. However, for areas with extreme temperatures, look for doors with thermal breaks or additional insulation to enhance energy efficiency.

2. Evaluate Finish Options

Aluminum doors come with various finishes, including anodized and powder-coated options. Anodizing increases surface hardness and wear resistance, while powder coating offers multiple colour choices and additional protection. Select a finish that aligns with the space’s aesthetic and the functional demands of your project.

3. Consider Customization

Many manufacturers offer customization options for aluminum doors. You can specify dimensions, hardware, and additional features to meet the needs of your project, whether for security, accessibility, or aesthetic integration.

4. Assess Security Features

Evaluate the security features of the aluminum doors. Look for robust locking mechanisms, reinforced frames, and other security enhancements to protect the building and its occupants.

5. Inspect Hardware Quality

Pay attention to the quality of the hardware used in the doors, such as hinges, locks, and handles. High-quality hardware ensures smooth operation, durability, and security. Ensure that the hardware is compatible with your projects.

FAQs About Aluminum Exterior Access Doors

1. Are aluminum access doors good for exterior use?

Yes, aluminum access doors are good for exterior use because they resist rust, handle moisture well, and require minimal maintenance. They’re a strong option for commercial buildings exposed to rain, humidity, or changing weather conditions.

For better long-term performance, choose aluminum doors with protective finishes, quality hardware, and proper sealing features.

2. Do aluminum exterior access doors need special maintenance?

Aluminum exterior access doors require minimal maintenance. In most cases, regular cleaning with mild soap and water is enough to keep the surface in good condition.

You should also periodically inspect the hinges, locks, gaskets, and finish. This helps catch wear, surface damage, or sealing issues before they affect performance.

3. Are aluminum access doors better than steel access doors?

Aluminum access doors are better than steel doors when rust resistance, lighter weight, and low maintenance are top priorities. Steel access doors may be better when higher strength, impact resistance, or specific fire-rated requirements are needed.

The best choice depends on the project location, exposure level, security needs, and performance requirements.

To Sum Up

Aluminum exterior access doors offer a range of benefits for commercial construction projects, from their resistance to rust and corrosion to their aesthetic versatility and low maintenance requirements. These features make aluminum an excellent choice for durable and attractive access solutions.

At Best Access Doors Canada, we prioritize using high-quality materials like aluminum to ensure our products meet your requirements. Our access doors are built to endure harsh conditions and provide longevity and visual appeal for your construction projects.

Request a quote to discover our range of aluminum access doors and identify the ideal options for your needs. You can also contact us at +1-888-327-5471 for further assistance and to speak with our knowledgeable team.