The Powder Coating Craze

What’s so special about having an item (or items) powder coated, and why has this process become so popular?

The most basic answer to both questions is powder coating allows you to paint an object, such as your vehicle’s wheels, valve covers, springs, brake calipers, etc., and apply the paint with an electro-static process. This process binds the paint to the metal surface and then bakes the paint on the object at over 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Powder coating doesn’t crack and it doesn’t peel. It is much harder to scratch because the paint has been literally “bound” to the metal surface. In other words, it has become part of the metal itself.

The process is not limited to vehicle parts and accessories. The process is also popular with home furnishings and outdoor fixtures. Powder Coating can be applied to old, metal lawn furniture in order to bring it to life again. Powder coating can be applied to wrought iron fencing, gates, hinges, motorcycle and bicycle frames, and even boat propellers. The fact is, if an item can survive the 400 degree baking process, it can be powder coated in virtually any color imaginable. Want to powder coat your toaster to match your kitchen’s backsplash? It can be done.

Powder Coating Won’t Fade or Rust

Powder coating won’t fade or rust, even in the South’s hottest or wettest environment. Outside fixtures such as sign holders for businesses can be powder coated to match your company’s colors. Schools and colleges can match their colors on just about any object as long as the object can withstand the baking process.

How Long Does It Take and How Much Does It Cost?

How long does it take, and how much does it cost? Each individual project is different. Every item being powder coated will first have to be sandblasted to remove any current paint, rust or dirt. A set of four wheels might take a day to sandblast, another day to coat, and another day to dry and be sealed. If items have to be disassembled such as two piece wheels or lawn furniture being painted with more than one color, add another day. Roughly speaking, allow about a week to have an item powder coated from start to finish.

The costs are wide ranging depending on the simplicity or complexity of the project. Postle Tire Barn will be happy to provide a free estimate, and to be 100% accurate, an in-person inspection of your item(s) needs to be conducted.

Postle Tire Barn has been serving Tuscaloosa and the West Alabama area for more than 35 years. Our award winning team excels in home-town customer service. Our motto says it all: Great Prices and No Bull.