Powder coating is a dry film applied to a surface to change its appearance and provide protection. It is like paint but more durable and long-lasting. Many outdoor surfaces, especially metals, receive this coating, from farm equipment and car parts to light poles and playground equipment. The coating can protect surfaces against weather-related wear, but technicians must apply it well. The protection also depends on the type of coating chosen.
Does Weather Affect Powder Coating?
Weather can cause harmful effects on powder coating, but a coating often provides better weather protection than bare or painted metal. Here are a few factors that influence durability.
Temperature and UV Levels
Ideally, powder-coated materials should be stored in temperatures ranging from 68 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature range will ensure the longest-lasting color. Ultraviolet (UV) light can also damage a coating, leading it to lose shine and color. Though extreme weather can lower a powder coat’s durability, these finishes retain color and shine longer than paint in sunny and hot conditions.
Humidity and Moisture
Moisture in any form can also impact a powder coating’s permanence. Coatings must be applied in a dry area. In a humid area, the layer will trap moisture and cause a discolored finish. After the coating is added, it will last the longest in areas with 47% to 55% humidity. Wet weather with rain or snow corrodes untreated metals, but a coated surface will last longer in such conditions.
Coat Quality and Type
Powder coatings also have different types and grades. The grade measures how strong the coating is, and the type tells what material was used to create the coating. A high-performance grade can provide weather protection for up to 10 years — other lower-quality grades might only last about 18 months.
There are also different types of powder coating available. An epoxy coat provides good corrosion resistance but wears quickly in sunlight, so it shouldn’t be used outdoors. Fluoropolymers offer the highest level of protection for extended outdoor use.
Powder Coating Can Protect Outdoor Surfaces
While extreme weather can impact a powder coat’s durability, this coating method offers more protection than paint or untreated surfaces. Powder coatings are most beneficial when applied by an experienced team. These teams use high-quality materials and avoid dangers like humidity, which can damage the finish before it gets used.
Keystone Koating provides commercial and industrial-grade powder coating services to protect outdoor surfaces. We use an eight-stage pretreatment process to ensure the coating lasts. Get in touch to receive a quote for our services.