How Long Does Powder Coating Last?

Whether you’re considering powder coating for your project or already have an object that was previously powder coated, you’re probably wondering how long powder coating lasts. Powder coating lasts about 15-20 years, depending on the powder used and the pre-treatment. Not only does powder coating last a long time, but it’s also highly durable and low maintenance. This durability and longevity are why powder coating is a better option over wet paint or plating.

The reason powder coating has such great longevity is because of the work done before and during the powder coating process. At Powder Coat Art, we use world-class electrostatic powder coating equipment, so you get the best quality for your powder coating project and enjoy it for many years to come. Let’s dive into the components of powder coating that contribute to its long-lasting qualities.

The Crucial First Step

The major contributor to powder coating’s quality and longevity is the pre-treatment before the actual powder coating. Pre-treatment entails stripping away any existing powder coat, rust, and corrosion, so you have a clean surface. Pre-treatment is typically completed by sandblasting, which our team can do in the same facility as your powder coating project. Pre-treatment allows the powder to properly cling to the metal object during the powder coating process and leads to a long life. Even though pre-treatment is probably the most critical factor to long-lasting powder coating, we should also consider the types of powder coating.

Type of Powder Coating

The type of powder coat necessary for your metal object depends mainly on what kind of environment it lives in. Is it patio furniture sitting outside with no shade? Is it an object that will live inside all the time? These are essential questions our team will discuss to make sure you’re getting exactly what you want. Here are the different types of powders you’ll see and what scenarios they thrive in.

• Polyester

This is a very popular type of powder coating because it works great for both indoor and outdoor metal objects. Polyester powder coating is used frequently because it has a large selection of colors and gloss. You can also rely on this type of powder coating to have good resistance to corrosion, UV weathering, and chemicals.

• Fluoropolymers

This powder coating type is perfect for an outdoor metal object. It’s incredibly durable and can handle the weather elements nicely. Fluoropolymers also resist corrosion, which is especially necessary for an outdoor application.

• Epoxy

Epoxy is a type of powder coating that only works well for objects living inside, away from harsh heat and temperatures. It has the same durability and resistance that the other types have, but the sun and weather can cause the epoxy powder to deteriorate and fade.

• Urethanes

This powder type is very similar to the commonly used polyester but even better. It’s even more resistant to chemicals than polyester. Urethanes powders are a step up in performance from polyester, so it’s ideal if you need a heavy-duty powder coat.

High-Temperature Powder Coating

Powder coating typically handles heat very well, up to 250 degrees, to be exact! For most people, the standard level of powder coating will work just fine for their project. If you have an auto part or another metal object that will be around high heat consistently, then a standard powder coating won’t last as long as you need it. At Powder Coat Art, we offer a high-temperature powder coating that can withstand higher than 1100 degrees. For products exposed to extreme heat, high-temperature powder coating will ensure the same level of quality you expect from a standard powder coat.

Is it Time For a New Powder Coat?

If it’s been 15-20 years or your object’s powder coating is damaged, it might be a good idea to complete a new powder coating. We have a full detailed post on powder coating over existing powder coating to help you decide if it will work for your project. Here are some things to look for to know that it’s time to contact us at Powder Coat Art for a fresh coat of high-quality powder coat.

Corrosion is bound to happen over time. If your object wasn’t powder coated correctly, rust and corrosion might show up sooner than you thought. When you start to see rust and corrosion, it’s a good idea to get a new powder coat. Fading and deterioration are other reasons to bring your object in for a fresh powder coat. This could be due to the amount of time since the last powder coat or extra exposure to the sun.

Trust Powder Coat Art

We stand by our quality and craft with powder coating. When you trust your powder coating project with our team, we don’t take that lightly. We promise to provide powder coating services that will last a long time. Call us today at (615) 637-3668 to discuss your project with us. You can also follow Powder Coat Art on Instagram or reach out on our website.