Ever wondered what gives that patio furniture or appliance its sleek, durable finish? The answer might surprise you! It’s not just heavy-duty paint, but a special process called powder coating. This technique offers a tougher, longer-lasting alternative – but what exactly is it?
The world of powder coating offers a fascinating solution, and Borotek Powder Coating is here to be your guide on understanding the process and discovering how to keep your powder coating job looking fresh and new for years to come.
What Is Powder Coating?
When you think about painting, the first thing that likely comes to mind is the amount of hours that is spent carefully applying multiple layers to achieve an even, desired finish. Each layer needs drying time, which can take hours or even days depending on the paint and conditions. This process can be tedious and time-consuming, especially if you’re working on a larger project.
Powder coating, on the other hand, offers a significantly faster and more efficient alternative. It utilizes a free-flowing, dry powder that is electrostatically charged so the powder clings to whatever object is being coated. Once applied, the object is baked in a curing oven that melts the powder, creating a smooth, unified coating that bonds to the surface. Depending on the size of the project, from start to finish, powder coating can take as little as 30 minutes to complete – a drastic difference compared to the drying process of traditional paint.
But the benefits of powder coating extend far beyond just speed. First off, it offers superior durability. Powder coated surfaces resist scratches, chips, abrasions, and even harsh chemicals much better than painted ones. It’s also the ideal choice for outdoor applications, as it also is more resistant to fading and weathering. Since powder coating utilizes minimal to no solvents, it contributes less to air pollution and is considered an environmentally-friendly choice. And finally, powder coating can be applied to a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics, and even wood with proper pre-treatment. You name it, powder coating can likely be applied to it, making it one of the most versatile finishing options available!
7 Ways to Ensure Long-Lasting Powder Coating
Even though powder coating is incredibly durable, a little TLC can go a long way in keeping it looking its best for many years to come. Here are 7 easy tips to help ensure your powder-coated surfaces stay vibrant and protected:
- Limit Cleanings: Cleaning powder coating too frequently can cause premature erosion. But cleaning powder coating too infrequently can cause a thick build up of dirt and grime that requires more pressure to remove, and harm the finish. That’s why we recommend you clean it at the beginning of each season.
- Choose the Right Tools: Opt for sponges, brushes, or microfiber towels – basically anything that has been deemed suitable for washing a car.
- Use Gentle Cleaning Agents: You might be surprised to know that a mild soap and water is all you need to effectively clean powder coating. Harsh chemicals and detergents can damage the finished product.
- Apply Wax for Protection: To better protect your powder coated objects, you can use car wax to create a barrier that extends the life of the finish. Choose wax with UV protection for added durability for items that see long periods of time in the sun.
- Repair Damage Properly: Minor scratches or chips happen from time to time. Address them as soon as possible to prevent further damage or rust. We suggest touch-up paint that is specifically designed for powder coating. If the damage is deeper (looks like it’s affected the primer layer), we may need to recoat to prevent corrosion.
- Regular Inspections: Make it a regular habit to give your powder-coated surfaces a quick once-over. Look for any signs of wear, scratches, chipping, or fading. By finding these issues and making necessary repairs quickly, we can help prevent them from worsening.
- Pressure Cleaning: While pressure washing can be effective for cleaning heavily soiled items, you need to use extreme caution. A high pressure setting can damage the powder coating. So be sure to use a low pressure setting, always maintain a safe distance, and use a wide spray pattern to minimize impact.
Ready to Experience the Difference of Powder Coating for Yourself? Give Us a Call
Borotek Powdercoating is your one-stop shop for all of your powder coating needs. Our facility boasts a massive 50-foot industrial oven, allowing us to tackle projects of all sizes with exceptional efficiency. But our team of experts is really what makes our company shine. These highly skilled professionals possess the knowledge and experience to deliver flawless finishes in order for you to achieve the perfect look and unmatched durability.
Contact Borotek Powdercoating today by calling 615-624-2711 and discover the difference powder coating can make for your next project! You can also get in touch with us online.