Can you tell me...?


What is powder coating?

Powder coating is a process whereby paint, in the form of a dry powder, is sprayed onto a component. A static charge sticks the powder in place and the component is then heated in order to melt and cure the powder.

Back to the Top

What is the powder made from?

The powder is a highly refined polyester or polyester-epoxy blend which has been coloured by the manufacturer to match the required shade. Unlike wet painting, no mixing is required to obtain the desired consistency or shade.

Back to the Top

Is powder coating better than wet painting?

Powder coating offers a high quality finish in a single coat process and, once it has cooled down after stoving, there is no additional waiting time to handle the component. Polyester powders offer superior protection against UV damage for items to be used outdoors. Polyester-epoxy powders are for interior use but are extremely hard-wearing and resistant to scuffs and small scratches.

Back to the Top

What colours and finishes are available?

Standard powders are matched to the RAL colour range. Have a look at our colour chart which gives an indication of the RAL shades. Most of these colours will either be in stock here or will be available in stock from our suppliers for quick delivery. Other colours are available and any shade can be matched if required, although a custom powder will be more expensive and there will be a minimum order quantity. If in doubt, give us a call to check price and availability.

Powders are available in a range of gloss levels, from matt through to full gloss, and in a range of textured finishes. Again, the desired finish has a bearing on cost so please call to check price and availability.

Back to the Top

Is a clear powder coat available?

Yes, either as an extra coat on top of another powder (e.g. to add a high gloss to a metallic finish) or as a finish in its own right.

Back to the Top

Can you coat two-tone finishes and fades?

No, sorry. The nature of the powder coating process means that it is not suitable for this type of work.

Back to the Top

What materials can you coat?

Mild steel, stainless steel and aluminium are the usual suspects but in reality anything which will hold a static charge and withstand being baked for 30 minutes at nearly 200 degrees C should be able to be coated. Please call for information if you have a non-standard material which requires coating.

Back to the Top

Can you coat over an existing finish?

This is entirely dependent on the type and quality and of the existing finish. In general, re-coating a powder coated item is possible. Powder coating over the top of a wet painted finish may also be ok, depending on the paint system originally used. Powder coating is generally not possible over the top of body filler or sealant (particularly silicone-based products).

Back to the Top

What pre-treatment options are available? What are their benefits?

We carry out a 4-stage chemical pre-treatment process on all components prior to painting. This cleans the surfaces of the component for a better bond with the paint.

For mild steel items which are destined for outdoor use, we would always recommend either zinc plating or galvanising as a surface treatment prior to painting. As with wet painting, if the finish is damaged and the material underneath the paint is exposed to the elements, rust will set in and spread. Plating/galvanising will help to prevent this and we can arrange for this work to be carried out.

Back to the Top

How long does the job take?

In general, a week from receipt of the parts to completion. This may vary subject to workload so, if leadtime is critical or if a special turnaround is required, please contact us prior to placing an order.

Back to the Top

Can you collect/deliver?

Sometimes this is possible, within the local area and for a small charge. In general, we find it is better for you to drop the parts off yourself, which gives you the chance to see the painting process first-hand, see colour samples and examples of finished work, and discuss the details of the work required with us.

Back to the Top

How much will it cost?

A number of factors affect the final price, including but not limited to the size and shape of the component, the colour and finish of the powder used. Have a look at our pricing page for more information.

Back to the Top