How much will your powder coating cost?

Ashburn, VA 20149

Powder Coating Specialists on Thumbtack cost$75 - $4000

National average fixed price

  • Lowest price:$0
  • Most common low price:$75
  • Most common high price:$4000
  • Highest price:$0

How much are powder coating prices?

Powder coating prices can vary greatly depending on the item that needs to be coated. For example, some pros might charge $75 to $100 to powder coat bicycles and chairs, and $400 to $3,000 to powder coat wheels or a car. 

Powder coating is a way to cover the surface of almost any material with a solid, durable finish that can withstand wear and tear, including the outdoor elements. It provides a high-quality, environmentally friendly and durable dry powder finish alternative to liquid paint. Automotive hobbyists are particularly familiar with powder coating, which is applied to the bodies and exposed parts of cars — including wheels, rims, brake calipers and more.

Keep reading to learn more about how prices are determined, the application process and how to get accurate cost estimates from powder coating specialists near you.

What’s in this cost guide?

Powder coating prices

The type of items (and their size) can affect the overall cost of powder coating. Typically, the larger the item, the higher the cost. Here are a few cost estimates for items that can be coated:

Car

$1,000-$3,000

Set of wheels

$400-$700

Beds

$100 and up

Two-person glider or love seat

$125 and up

Patio table

$160-$200

High-back, spin-based chair

$105 and up

Beds

$100 and up

Barstool

$100 and up

Low rocker

$95 and up

Armchair

$85 and up

Side chair

$75 and up

Bicycle

$75

Gates and fencing

$6-$8 per sq. ft.

Keep in mind that these are just rough cost estimates. By contacting powder coating specialists, you can receive custom price quotes for your items.

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What impacts pricing?

Powder coating specialists will consider various factors when determining their prices. For example, some pros may determine their prices depending on the type of item and its size. They may charge a flat rate, or they may have a per-square-foot or per-linear-foot price for certain surfaces like railings or gates. There might be minimum charges and standard labor hourly rates you’ll need to pay as well. 

The type of coating can impact costs as well. For example, there's thermoplastic coating, which is more flexible than thermoset. But thermoset coating is more resistant to heat and typically more cost-effective. You might also have to pay more if you request custom colors.

Other factors that can determine pricing include labor costs and the amount of prep work needed, whether you require sandblasting or burn-off and the number of coats you need. A standard color could only need one coat, but certain colors may require a second.

What materials can be powder coated?

There are a vast number of surfaces that can be powder coated. Advances in the process have widened the range of surfaces to include not only metal, aluminum and ceramic but also wood surfaces (specifically, medium-density fiberboard or MDF), glass and plastic, according to the Powder Coating Institute (PCI).

Here’s a quick overview of common surfaces that can be powder coated:

Appliances & equipment Automotive Outdoor & home exterior
Playground equipment Wheels and rims Aluminum doors
Metal exercise equipment Windshield wipers Aluminum windows
Stoves Bumpers Barbecue grills
Refrigerators and freezers Steering wheels Patio furniture
Vacuum cleaners Door handles Metal gutters
Dishwashers Oil/air filters Downspouts
Washing machines and dryers Window trims Wheelbarrows
Microwave ovens Primers Lawnmowers
Kitchen appliances Radiators Bicycles

Source: Powder Coating Institute

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Powder coating process

The first step in the coating process is the prep work. The surface must be clean and free from any debris, rust, oil, dirt and previous coats of paint to ensure adhesion and a quality finish. The professional will use different techniques, such as sandblasting or media blasting, to clean the piece before the application step. 

Next is the application process, which is often called electrostatic spray deposition. Using a spray gun, pros typically apply an electrostatic charge to the powder particles, which then stick to the nearest grounded object being sprayed, according to the PCI. 

Lastly, to keep the powder adhered to the surface, the item must be heated and cured to obtain a strong, durable finish.

Powder coating benefits

Durability is the main benefit of powder coating. It provides a more durable finish than liquid paint, and it’s more resistant to moisture, light, heat and extreme weather. That’s why this type of coating is a great choice to use on outdoor furniture, wheels, rims, equipment and appliances.

Here are a few other benefits:

  • It contains no solvents and releases little or no volatile organic compounds, according to the Environmental Protection Agency
  • It can be recycled and generate zero hazardous waste.
  • Its finish is scratch-resistant and reduces fading, corrosion or abrasions.
  • It gives a smooth, shiny look to your surfaces.

Tips for hiring a powder coating specialist

First, go online to find a powder coating service in your area. Look through their profiles and read their recent customer reviews and ratings. Examine pictures of previous jobs, and try to deduce the quality of their work.

Once you’ve found a few pros who seem like a good fit, contact them and explain which item(s) need to be coated. Send them a photo of the item, provide details about its size and material (is it metal, aluminum, wood, etc.?) and ask for a free estimate.

Finally, compare their prices with other companies in your area, and ask if they have all the appropriate licensing, permits or certifications before you choose a pro.

Find a powder coating service near you

Whether you want to revitalize your fence or improve the appearance of your tires, rims and wheels, applying a powder coat could be a great option for you. It’s a great way to update an outdoor space and protect your furniture from rust and corrosion.

So instead of replacing an item, look into how much it would cost to get them coated instead — you might find this to be the more cost-effective option. Start searching for a powder coating service near you today.

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FAQs

Here are the answers to a few commonly asked questions about powder coating.

Is powder coating more expensive than paint?

It depends. Depending on the type of paint, prices could be lower — or higher. To find out which option is the most economical one for you, contact powder coating professionals and painters for cost estimates.

How long does powder coating last?

Powder coating companies typically say it can last up to 10 to 20 years. However, its longevity could depend on the coating's quality.

Can wood be powder coated?

Yes. Some wood and wood products like MDF can be powder coated.

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How do we know these prices?

Millions of people ask Thumbtack for help with their projects every year. We track the estimates they get from local professionals, conduct our own research and then we share those prices with you. The prices reflected in the article above are for informational purposes only and are subject to change at any time. Contact a professional near you to receive a personalized cost estimate for your project.

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