Paint vs. Powder Coating

Durability

When painting or coating a surface, you always want it to last as long as possible without needing to apply touch up. In terms of durability, powder coating is unmatched in comparison to paint. Powder coat creates a very thick, adhesive finish that lasts much longer than the average coat of paint. It is highly resistant to UV light from the sun and moisture in the air, keeping its strength and color much more effectively than paint.

Whether your application is to an indoor furniture project or something that stays outdoors like railing. Powder coat can last up to 20 years. In comparison, paint lasts about 5 to 10 years on average being heavily affected by weather and wear. ‍

Costs and Process

Powder coating costs are typically more as the process requires special equipment and skill. Special electrostatic spray deposition systems makes the powder particles attracted to the surface, and then heat is applied to seal the powder in place. Any excess powder can be gathered up and reused later. Due to the complexity of powder coating, it is usually best left to professionals to apply.

Painting, on the other hand, is a much less technical process that can be done by almost anyone. It is not necessary to hire a professional or use any special equipment apart from a brush, roller, spray can, and some basic protection. Wet paint is applied to a surface and then left to dry without the need for heat-curing.

Multiple layers or coats of paint are often needed to reach the desired effect, and you must wait after each coat for it to dry. With powder coating, a single application is all you need. This makes the process more efficient, but the curing process takes quite a while for very large objects.‍

Color

Paint is much easier to get that desired color you may be looking for and the cost for testing a color out can require only a small purchase for a quart size can of paint. Powder coating will typically have more of your basic color patterns with finishes like gloss / matte / or flat. You are able to order powder coat with an exact color code but typically is much more expensive. Paint offers more flexibility when it comes to color.