Aluminium naturally protects itself from airborne elements by forming a thin, yet tenacious layer of aluminium oxide over its surface area. Anodising is simply an electrolytic process introduced to artificially thicken this naturally occurring film, by converting a portion of the underlying surface aluminium into the “more protective” aluminium oxide.

The anodising process produces a clear, hard and extremely corrosion-resistant film, capable of being coloured while also increasing the hardness of the treated aluminium surface by more than three times.

These improved properties broaden the possible application for the aluminium and enhance its suitability in many of its existing uses. Unless the aluminium is severely deformed or stressed by excessive thermal movement, anodising will not chip, peel or crack.

The strength of anodising is incredible. It literally forms the second hardest material on earth, only surpassed by diamond. So naturally, when choosing a surface coating for Terrain’s aluminium products, including our shelters, there was no better choice than anodising.

What is more, the anti-corrosive anodised finish is impermeable by stains, and therefore the perfect coating for public coastal settings where harsh weather, salt and even graffiti will quickly deteriorate steel or timber products.

Anodising is able to be coloured itself, providing various shades from clear to dark opaque finish, but can also be powder coated as well for a near infinite number of colour possibilities – even “timber texture” finishes are possible.

Learn more about Terrain’s range of Anodised Aluminium Shelters