How to Paint and Customize SNAPP® Screen Track

Custom Finishes & Painting Guide for SNAPP® Screen Track

Want your SNAPP® Screen Track to match your project perfectly? Both aluminum and PVC SNAPP® Screen Track can be customized with paint or specialty finishes to complement your home, porch, gazebo, or outdoor living space.

While Metro Screenworks does not offer custom finishing services directly, the recommendations below will help guide you through the finishing process and improve long-term durability.

For aluminum applications, choose unfinished Mill Aluminum track if you plan to apply a custom finish. For PVC applications, start with our standard white PVC track, which is designed to accept compatible paint systems.

Finishing Aluminum SNAPP® Screen Track

Professional Finish Options

For the most durable and factory-quality appearance, consider using a professional finishing company. Powder coating, anodizing, and automotive-grade painting are all popular options for aluminum extrusions.

Local resources to consider:

  • Powder coating companies
  • Metal finishing shops
  • Auto body and paint facilities
  • Specialty paint suppliers

Many finishing companies have setup fees or minimum order requirements, so costs will vary based on project size and finish type.

DIY Aluminum Painting Steps

Aluminum requires proper preparation before painting to ensure long-lasting adhesion. Following these steps can significantly improve results.

Step 1: Clean and Prep the Surface

Remove grease, dirt, oils, and contaminants from the aluminum surface before painting. Raw mill aluminum often contains residue and also develops a natural oxidation layer that can interfere with paint bonding.

Recommended prep materials:

  • Red Scotch-Brite™ pads
  • Quality degreaser
  • Commercial cleaners such as MEK

Avoid steel wool or abrasive materials that may scratch or gouge the extrusion surface, as imperfections can become visible after painting.

Step 2: Apply an Aluminum Etching Primer

Once the surface has been cleaned and prepared, apply an aluminum etching primer.

This specialized primer creates a stronger bond between the metal and finish coat and is commonly available at automotive suppliers and home improvement stores.

Always follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding application and dry time.

Step 3: Apply Finish Paint

After the primer fully cures, apply your selected finish paint.

For best results:

  • Use the same paint brand as your primer when possible
  • Apply several light coats instead of one heavy coat
  • Allow proper drying time between coats

Avoid excessive paint buildup inside the spline channel. Since this area becomes hidden after installation, excess paint can interfere with screen retention and system performance.

Installation Tip

Whenever possible, finish SNAPP® Screen Track before installation and cut material as needed afterward.

If you choose to pre-cut pieces before painting, slightly reduce your measurements to account for paint buildup on the ends.

Avoid installing unfinished track and painting it after mounting.

Painting PVC SNAPP® Screen Track

PVC finishing requires different materials than aluminum because PVC expands, contracts, and flexes over time.

Recommended Paint Types

Use only:

  • 100% acrylic latex paint
  • 100% acrylic latex paint with urethane additives

Major manufacturers like Sherwin-Williams, PPG, and Benjamin Moore offer paint systems suitable for PVC surfaces.

Using incompatible paints can lead to peeling, cracking, and premature finish failure.

Color Considerations

For best performance, use white SNAPP® Screen Track and limit finish colors to lighter shades.

Very dark paint colors can absorb excess heat, potentially causing distortion or damage to the PVC extrusion over time.

Application Tips

PVC track can be sprayed with an airless sprayer, but many installations are easier to finish after installation using a brush.

As with aluminum, avoid packing paint into the spline channel area.

Excess material in this channel can create retention problems once screening is installed.

Final Tips for Long-Lasting Results

Proper preparation is the most important step in achieving a durable finish. Taking shortcuts during cleaning, priming, or application often leads to adhesion issues and early paint failure.

If you have questions, consult a local paint specialist or finishing professional before beginning your project. Always review product instructions and safety requirements before applying primers, paints, or specialty coatings.