FAQs

Powder coating is a finishing process that applies a decorative and protective coating to a wide range of metal products and components. The process begins with either new raw metal or previously coated metal. All parts are thoroughly cleaned to remove surface contaminants. This is typically done through degreasing using acetone or alkaline cleaners. If a part was previously coated, it may be placed in a stripping bath to remove the old finish. Once cleaned, parts are prepared to accept the new coating. This is done through either sand blasting or chemical etching, both of which create the proper surface profile and help ensure long-term coating durability. After blasting, parts are hung on racks, blown off with compressed air, and inspected for any remaining foreign material before being moved into the application booth. Chemically etched parts are dried in the curing oven before moving to application. During application, powder is applied using an electrostatic powder coating gun. The powder is positively charged while the metal part is grounded, allowing the powder to naturally adhere to the surface until curing. Once application is complete, parts are moved into the curing oven. Most powders cure at approximately 400°F. Cure time depends on the thickness of the metal, as the material must reach the target temperature before the coating fully cures. Thicker metal requires longer time in the oven. After curing, parts are cooled using airflow until they are safe to handle. Once cooled, finished parts are inspected and sent to packaging to protect the coating during pickup or delivery.

Powder coating is an extremely durable finish. It is more resistant to chipping, fading, scratching, and general wear than traditional paint. Most powders are also formulated to resist oil, grease, fuel, and certain acids, making them ideal for consumer, business, and industrial equipment

Powder can be applied to anything metal, including appliances, furniture, auto parts, marine parts, aeronautical parts, signs, posts, frames, industrial equipment, and more. If it's metal, we can likely coat it!

• All parts need to be degreased. • All parts must be free of anything that can’t withstand the 400°F cure temperature of most powders (ex. rubber gaskets, plastic clips, etc) • If you are bringing wheels in for coating, valve stems and wheel weights need to be removed. We can do this for you, but additional cleaning fees may apply.

We can accommodate any metal parts that fit in our 8’ wide × 8’ tall × 20’ deep curing oven. Larger or unusual parts can be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

It varies, but most of the time we are around 3 days out. We always try to be under 7 days and have flexibility to adjust staff to keep our turnaround time at a minimum.

Yes, our shop minimum is $80, but if you have a small project that is being sprayed a common color we shoot daily, we can get your items combined in with other jobs.

Most powders are single-stage and neither primer nor clear coat is required. Primers can increase the durability of the powder, provide scratch resistance, and zinc primers help slow rust if the powder is damaged. Clear coats protect against UV exposure and are required on some colors to “activate” them. Adding primer or clear coat typically increases the price by about 25% each.

We do not Cerakote at this time.

Yes. Pickup and delivery are available for qualifying projects within a 150-mile radius. Service areas include Ellensburg, Cle Elum, Wenatchee, Moses Lake, Yakima, Tri Cities, and the Greater Puget Sound. Delivery fees may apply.

We do not install our signs at this time, but can often recommend a local professional if needed.