What Is Powder Coating and Why Choose It?

The Basics of Powder Coating

Powder coating is a dry finishing process where finely ground pigment and resin are electrostatically applied to a clean metal surface and then cured in a high-temperature oven. The result? A durable, uniform, and attractive coating that offers protection and style.

What Makes Powder Coating Better Than Paint?

Unlike traditional wet paint, powder coating:

• Leaves no drips or streaks
• Offers a thicker, more durable finish
• Withstands harsh weather and UV exposure
• Is environmentally friendly with no VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)

For long-term value and durability, powder coating simply outperforms standard paint.

Average Costs for Powder Coating Services

Common Price Ranges

Here are general estimates for powder coating based on project type:

• Small parts (e.g., hinges, brackets): $25–$50 each
• Medium items (e.g., bike frames, dining chairs): $75–$150
• Larger projects (e.g., wheels, bed frames): $150–$300
• Brake calipers (per set): $200–$400

Note: These are average estimates and actual prices may vary depending on size, shape, prep work, and finish type.

Full Blown Coatings Example

We recently had a client from Kaysville bring in a set of four heavily used wheels and matching brake calipers. After sand blasting, outgassing, and applying a two-stage gloss red finish, the total job ran about $850. The customer was thrilled with the brand-new appearance and long-term protection.

Factors That Influence Powder Coating Costs

Type of Metal

Different metals require different prep processes:

• Steel is the easiest and least expensive to coat.
• Aluminum needs outgassing and special attention to porosity.
• Cast Iron often has layers of rust or old paint to remove first.

Prep Work Required

Prep is crucial to ensure quality and adhesion:

• Sand blasting to remove rust, debris, or old coatings
• Outgassing to eliminate impurities in porous metals
• Solvent wiping to clean any oils or residue

Skipping these steps often leads to flaking and peeling—issues we’ve fixed for multiple clients who came to us after other coaters cut corners.

Size and Complexity of the Item

A simple bed frame will cost less than an intricate vintage chair with dozens of curves and crevices. The more complex the shape, the more labor-intensive the masking, blasting, and coating.

Color and Finish Selection

Some clients prefer basic matte or satin black, while others want:

• Candy colors
• Metallics
• Textured finishes
• Two-tone or multi-stage applications

These premium options add both beauty and cost. For instance, our custom clear-over-flake finishes are popular for brake calipers and wheels.

Powder Coating Brake Calipers – A Popular Upgrade

Why Powder Coat Calipers?

Powder coating brake calipers isn’t just about style—though it certainly enhances the look of your wheels. It also:

• Protects against corrosion from road salt and brake dust
• Withstands high temperatures from brake operation
• Adds resale value to performance vehicles

Our Caliper Process at Full Blown Coatings

We disassemble, mask, sand blast, coat, and bake every caliper to ensure full coverage without compromising function.

Anecdote: A Provo customer with a sports car wanted bright orange calipers to match the interior stitching of their seats. After our custom work, they said the calipers turned more heads than the wheels!

Sand Blasting: The First Step to a Quality Finish

Why Sand Blasting Matters

You can’t apply a top-notch finish on a dirty or uneven surface. Sand blasting removes:

• Rust
• Old paint
• Oils or residues
• Surface imperfections

It also creates a rough texture that allows powder to cling better. At Full Blown Coatings, we use industrial-grade media and pressure settings tailored to the metal type.

Anecdote: A client from Ogden brought in a patio table coated with flaking paint. Our sand blasting exposed the clean steel beneath, and after powder coating in textured bronze, the set looked brand new and weatherproof.

Choosing a Powder Coating Provider in Northern Utah

Why Full Blown Coatings?

We proudly serve customers across:

• Salt Lake County
• Utah County
• Davis County
• Weber County
• Cache County

Our services include:

• Accurate pricing and free consultations
• A massive selection of colors and textures
• Expert prep with industrial equipment
• Reliable turnaround and optional pick-up/delivery

With over a decade of experience, we handle everything from antique restoration to modern automotive projects.

Final Thoughts: Is Powder Coating Worth the Cost?

In short: Absolutely. Powder coating gives you a professional-grade finish that lasts years longer than paint. When properly prepped and applied, it's a cost-effective way to:

• Enhance appearance
• Improve durability
• Protect your investment

If you're in Northern Utah and need powder coating or metal finishing done right the first time, contact Full Blown Coatings today for a quote tailored to your project.