Some Questions You Might Have About Getting a Metal Fence Powder Coated
Powder coating is a very popular choice for metal fences; when your home's fence has become rusted or otherwise corroded and damaged, you might consider having it powder coated. Note a few commonly asked questions about the process and then you can note if this is the right choice for keeping your fence in good repair and looking its best.
1. Why powder coating versus spray painting?
Spray painting is very messy and also releases many harmful toxins into the environment. If you're thinking about spray painting your own fence, this can also mean many hours of sanding and other prep work. Also, the spray paint might not adhere as easily as powder coating so that you need to repeat this job many times over. However, powder coating is faster and doesn't release fumes into the air, and because it adheres the colour or coating with a charge of electricity, it's more likely to stick for many years no matter the weather or abuse your fence might take.
2. Can textures be added to a powder coating?
In many cases, a texture can be added to powder coating, including wrinkles or a fine aggregate over the powder coating. If you have a solid metal fence, this can be a good way to break up the look of the fence and keep it from seeming like a compound or prison. You might also be able to add what are called hammer tones, which bring out variations in colour of the powder coating, so that it's not so flat. This, too, can add to the overall look of the fence and make it more attractive, and especially if you choose an unusual colour such as red or green versus a standard black.
3. Can any fence be powder coated?
Note that the process for adhering the powder to the fence usually involves a very high heat, as the powder may be baked on after the electrical charging step. This final baking process helps to set the powder and keep it adhered to the metal. However, not all metals or other materials are durable enough to withstand this high heat, and an older fence that is very worn or very thin may not be a good candidate for this process. Thin aluminium, as an example, may be too flimsy for this baking. Your technician can note if your fence is the right metal and in good condition for this powder coating and baking.