Tips For Deciding Whether Or Not To Powder Coat Over An Existing Layer
Whether you're just looking to change the color, or you're trying to restore a damaged coating, you may find yourself wondering if you can apply powder coating over an existing layer of powder coating. The truth is that yes, you can. However, there are some special considerations that apply any time you're thinking about this type of work. Here are some things to consider before you make the decision to apply fresh powder coating over an existing layer.
Are You Sure It's Powder Coated?
The first thing you need to be sure of is that the piece in question actually is powder coated. Some parts and materials, particularly those imported from other countries, can be painted in such a way that it resembles a powder coat closely. This often results in confusion where owners assume that something has been powder coated when, in fact, it's painted. You can't apply powder coating over a layer of paint. The paint will need to be removed either through sandblasting or something similar so that the powder coating can adhere to the metal.
Are There Any Flaws In The Powder Coating?
The other thing you need to think about is the condition of the existing powder coating. If there are certain flaws in that coating, the new power coating won't adhere or may not be able to prevent the problem from worsening.
For example, if the original powder coating layer didn't properly adhere to the metal, the new powder coating layer isn't going to, either. You'll have to have the original powder coating removed and a new coating applied to resolve this problem.
Any bubbling or other structural flaws that have appeared in the original powder coating layer will persist in the new coating as well. You can't use a fresh powder coating layer over the top to resolve things like this. Your new coating will end up bubbling and chipping as well.
Any exposed metal that's resulted from chipping and cracking also needs to be closely inspected. If the metal is rusting or corroded, you cannot powder coat over the existing coating. You'll have to have the original coating removed, then sand off the surface rust and treat the metal with a rust inhibitor before you can apply a new powder coating; otherwise, the rust will simply spread beneath the coating.
The more you understand about when you shouldn't apply a fresh powder coating layer over an existing one, the easier it will be for you to get the powder coating finish that you're looking for from your project. Contact a powder coating professional near you today for more help.
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