When people think about powder coating, they usually focus on color and finish. But the truth is, the quality of a powder-coated job is determined long before the coating is ever applied.
Proper preparation is what makes powder coating last for years instead of peeling, bubbling, or failing early. At Premier Coatings Inc. (PCI), we treat prep work as the most important part of the entire process.
Here's how it's done—and why it matters.
Media Blasting (Creating a Clean Surface)
Before any coating can be applied, the metal must be stripped down to a clean, bare surface. This is done through media blasting.
Media blasting removes:
Rust
All rust and corrosion must be completely removed
Old Paint
Previous coatings that would prevent adhesion
Oils & Grime
Surface contaminants that cause failures
Why Texture Matters
More importantly, blasting creates a slightly textured surface. This texture gives the powder coating something to "grab onto," allowing it to bond properly to the metal. Think of it like creating tiny anchors across the entire surface.
Critical Point
Skipping or rushing this step is one of the most common reasons powder coating fails. Without proper blasting, the coating has nothing to bond to and will eventually peel or flake off.
Cleaning and Pretreatment
After blasting, the metal is thoroughly cleaned to remove any remaining dust, residue, or oils. Even small contaminants can cause defects later.
The pretreatment process is designed to:
Improve Adhesion
Creates a chemical bond between the metal and powder coating for maximum grip
Add Corrosion Resistance
Provides an extra layer of protection against rust and environmental damage
Ensure an Even, Consistent Finish
Eliminates surface variations that could affect the final appearance
The Invisible Step
This step is invisible in the final product—but it plays a major role in durability, especially for outdoor or high-use items. You can't see it, but you'll definitely notice its effects years down the road.