Powder Coating Near Me & Sand Blasting Near You – How to Tell If It Was Done Right
Powder Coating Near Me & Sand Blasting Near You – How to Tell If It Was Done Right
If you've recently had parts powder coated or are considering getting the service done, it's natural to wonder how you can tell if it was done correctly. At Full Blown Coatings, we serve clients across Salt Lake County, Utah County, Davis County, Weber County, and Cache County with top-tier powder coating and sand blasting services. Here’s a detailed guide on how to recognize a professional finish that will last for years.
Why Quality Matters in Powder Coating
Powder coating is more than just a cosmetic upgrade. It’s a functional finish that protects metal parts from corrosion, wear, and environmental damage. A poorly done powder coat job might look decent at first but will often peel, chip, or bubble within weeks.
At Full Blown Coatings, we once had a customer from Clearfield bring in a set of brackets powder coated at a budget shop. Within a month, the finish had started to flake off due to poor surface prep. We stripped the parts, properly sand blasted them, and applied a durable matte black finish that still looks great two years later.
Signs of a Proper Powder Coating Job
Smooth and Consistent Finish
A professional powder coat should be even and free of defects like:
- Orange peel texture
- Clumps or runs
- Thin, uneven patches
The finish should feel smooth to the touch with consistent gloss or texture across the entire surface.
No Bubbling, Peeling, or Flaking
These issues usually indicate improper surface prep. Before powder is applied, the metal must be thoroughly cleaned and often sand blasted to ensure adhesion.
Strong Adhesion
Gently press your fingernail into a hidden edge or corner. If the coating chips easily or flakes off, it's a red flag. Proper adhesion means the coating bonds tightly and won't scratch or separate under minor pressure.
Proper Coverage in Hard-to-Reach Areas
Professionally applied powder coating will reach every corner, curve, and recess. Areas like inner wheel spokes or complex brackets should be evenly covered, not missed or only lightly coated.
The Critical Role of Sand Blasting in Powder Coating
Before powder coating can even begin, the surface must be completely clean. That’s where sand blasting comes in. Sand blasting removes rust, paint, oils, and mill scale to create a roughened surface the powder can bond to.
At Full Blown Coatings, we had a client from North Ogden bring in a motorcycle frame that had been painted and then powder coated over the paint. It looked fine at first but started flaking. We stripped it completely, blasted it to white metal, and applied a two-stage powder coat. The customer was thrilled with the new, durable result.
Skipping sand blasting is one of the most common causes of coating failure.
What a Professional Powder Coating Process Looks Like
Step 1: Sand Blasting
Removes contaminants and provides a textured surface for adhesion.
Step 2: Degassing & Cleaning
Parts are baked in the oven to release trapped gases or oils, then cleaned with high-grade solvents.
Step 3: Powder Application
Using electrostatic spray guns, dry powder is applied evenly across the part.
Step 4: Curing in Industrial Ovens
Parts are baked at 375–400°F to melt the powder into a durable finish.
Step 5: Inspection
Each part is carefully inspected for consistency, coverage, and finish quality.
We once had a rush job from a customer in Lehi who needed four custom wheels powder coated in candy red for a car show. Despite the tight deadline, our team followed every prep and curing step precisely. The customer won Best Finish at the event.
Questions to Ask Your Powder Coating Provider
Before committing to a shop, ask:
- Do you sand blast all parts before coating?
- What type of powder do you use?
- Can you provide examples of past work?
- How do you ensure adhesion and consistency?
Reputable shops like Full Blown Coatings will gladly walk you through their process.
Why Customers Across Utah Trust Full Blown Coatings
With clients from Salt Lake County to Cache County, our reputation is built on precision, quality, and durability. We offer:
- In-house sand blasting for thorough prep
- Dozens of powder finishes and custom color options
- High-temp and specialty powder coatings
- Transparent pricing and fast turnaround times
Our team treats every project with care, whether it's a single bracket or an entire suspension system.
Conclusion
When it comes to powder coating, attention to detail makes all the difference. From the prep stage to final curing, quality work ensures long-lasting protection and aesthetics. If you're searching for reliable "powder coating near me" or "sand blasting near you" in Northern Utah, trust Full Blown Coatings to get the job done right.
Contact us today for a quote or to discuss your next project. Your parts deserve the best, and we deliver nothing less.
Share This Post!
