Powder coating: preparation, specification and costs
Colour alone does not define a suitable coating. Substrate, preparation, exposure and finish determine whether quotes are comparable.
How powder coating is applied
In common processes, powder is applied electrostatically and then cured under controlled conditions. The component must suit the process. Seals, heat-sensitive attachments or residues may need preparation. An assembled unit cannot automatically be coated unchanged. Agree necessary dismantling and the condition in which the firm should receive the parts.
Check material and starting condition
Steel, aluminium and stainless steel are common substrates. Other materials need suitable equipment and processing. Certain MDF parts can be powder-coated by specialists, which does not mean any wood or plastic qualifies. State exact material, known old coating, rust and dirt. Preparation and stripping depend on this. Dimensions and weight must suit the equipment too.
Distinguish indoor and outdoor use
A coating for dry indoor furniture is not automatically suitable for an exposed railing. State known humidity, weather exposure and special demands. Corrosion protection depends on substrate, preparation and a suitable layer system. A colour choice does not replace that specification. Have particular requirements and records confirmed rather than assuming every coating stays rust-free indefinitely.
| Use | Important details |
|---|---|
| Indoors | Humidity, contact and cleaning |
| Outdoors | Weather exposure and required protection |
| Special demands | Chemicals, heat or functional requirements |
Define colour, gloss and texture
A code describes colour, not automatically gloss and texture. State a known RAL or NCS reference and whether you want smooth, textured or effect finish. An undecided colour is acceptable for initial contact. For visible or matching parts, a sample helps approve the specification. A screen does not replace a real finish sample.
Agree masking and handover
Threads, fits and electrical contacts may need to remain uncoated. Mark these areas in the description or drawing. Clarify hanging, full or partial coating and required inspection records. Assembly and transport are not automatically included. Protective packaging helps preserve finished parts until use.
Include preparation and colour changes in price comparison
Condition, size, geometry and count affect price. Stripping, blasting, specialist primer, masking and special colours may add work. Identical parts and different objects in several colours have different scheduling needs. Compare complete treatment, inspection, packaging, delivery and VAT. An area rate without condition or layer system says little about your job.
| Comparison point | Check in the quote |
|---|---|
| Preparation | Stripping, cleaning and necessary pretreatment |
| Specification | Colour code, gloss, texture and protective system |
| Functional surfaces | Masking and agreed inspection features |
| Total price | Packaging, transport and extra work |
Describe parts and requirements together
State part, dimensions, material, condition and use. Add known colour code, sensitive areas and special requirements. For different parts, describe count and finish per type in the same field. Gloss and texture may remain open. The firm checks feasibility and necessary preparation before a binding quote.
Frequently asked questions
Can used parts be coated?
Yes, if suitable. Old coatings, rust and dirt may require extra preparation.
Must I know a colour code already?
No. Colour can be undecided initially and approved with a sample later.
Is a matt finish always smooth?
No. Gloss and texture are separate properties and should be specified separately.
Can MDF be powder-coated?
Certain prepared MDF parts can be treated by specialists. Material and manufacturing requirements need to match.
Should threads be coated too?
Not necessarily. Specify functional areas to remain clear and agree masking.
Does every colour provide the same outdoor protection?
Colour alone does not decide this. Substrate, preparation and coating system must suit exposure.
