Finishes
RAL colours
RAL is a colour reference system that gives each shade a number, so a frame colour can be specified exactly. RAL Classic uses four digits, such as 7016 for anthracite grey or 9005 for jet black. It defines colour only, not the paint type, durability or gloss.
Where does it work well?
Anyone specifying or matching a frontage colour across doors, frames, cladding, signs and shutters, and brands that need the same shade at several sites from different suppliers.
Pros
- Exact colour reference by number
- Widely used by coaters
- Easy to repeat across sites
Cons
- Does not set gloss or texture
- Shades can vary between batches and finishes
- Not every shade is held in every powder range
How long does it last?
Colour life depends on the coating, not the RAL number, and some bright shades may fade sooner.
What should you check when buying?
State the RAL number and the gloss level, such as matt, satin or gloss. Ask for a sample on metal, because a printed chart will not match exactly. For a rebrand across sites, use one coating supplier where possible to limit shade differences.
Common questions
What does RAL 7016 mean?
RAL 7016 is anthracite grey, a dark blue-grey that is widely used on aluminium frames. It is only a colour reference, so gloss and finish still need specifying. It can look quite different in matt and in satin.
Can you match my brand colour to a RAL number?
Usually you can get close. Brand colours are often set in print references, which do not always have an exact RAL match. We can suggest the closest number and show a metal sample before anything is coated.