Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the benefits of powder coating?

Powder coating provides a more durable finish than traditional paint, offers better resistance to scratches, corrosion, and fading, and is environmentally friendly as it produces no hazardous waste.

Q: What materials can be powder coated?

Powder coating is typically used on metal surfaces, such as aluminum, steel, and iron, but some non-metal materials, like glass or MDF (medium-density fiberboard), can also be coated with special preparation.

Q: How long does powder coating last?

Powder coating can last for many years, often 15-20 years or more, depending on the environment and exposure to elements like UV rays, moisture, and chemicals.

Q: Is powder coating environmentally friendly?

Yes, powder coating is considered environmentally friendly because it emits little to no volatile organic compounds (VOCs), produces less waste, and the overspray can often be recycled.

Q: Can you powder coat over rust or old paint?

No, the surface must be properly cleaned and prepped, usually by sandblasting or chemical stripping, to ensure the powder adheres properly and provides a durable finish.

Q: How do you prepare surfaces for powder coating?

Surfaces are typically cleaned, media-blasted, and degreased to remove rust, oils, or old coatings before the powder coating process begins.

Q: What colors and finishes are available?

Powder coating offers a wide range of colors, textures, and finishes, including gloss, matte, satin, metallic, and even custom colors.

Q: Is powder coating more expensive than traditional paint?

While the upfront cost of powder coating can be higher than traditional paint, its durability and long lifespan make it a more cost-effective option in the long run.

Q: How thick is the powder coating?

The typical thickness of powder coating is between 2 to 10 mils (thousandths of an inch), depending on the specific application and desired finish.

Q: Can powder coating be repaired or touched up?

While powder coating is very durable, like any finish, it can be scratched or chipped. Small scratches or chips can be repaired with touch-up paint. For larger repairs, re-coating the piece may be necessary.

Powder coating isn’t just “spray and bake.” It’s a detailed, multi-step process that directly impacts durability, performance, and long-term value.

Worker using protective gear for metalwork task.

Powder Coating FAQs What is powder coating?

Powder coating is a dry finishing process that involves applying a powdered paint to a surface and curing it with heat to create a durable, long-lasting finish.

What are the benefits of powder coating?

What materials can be powder coated?

How long does powder coating last?

Is powder coating environmentally friendly?

Can you powder coat over rust or old paint?

How do you prepare surfaces for powder coating?

What colors and finishes are available?

Is powder coating more expensive than traditional paint?

How thick is the powder coating?

Can powder coating be repaired or touched up?

How long does the powder-coating process take?

What is the difference between powder coating and wet paint?

Can I powder coat outdoor items?

Is powder coating heat-resistant?

Core Powder Coating Learn about our process.

Our process is built around precision, consistency, and quality control at every stage. Below are answers to common questions about how we prep, coat, and verify each job before it leaves our facility.

How fast is your turnaround time?

What options do you have for colors?

Do you offer repairs?

Yes — we provide minor repairs and touch-ups when they fall within our skill set and can be done safely and cost-effectively. For larger or specialized repairs that require advanced fabrication or welding, we work with several trusted partner shops to ensure the job is done correctly.

If a project comes to us with an existing coating that is too thick (such as 10–20 mils), it’s often more cost-effective to rebuild or fabricate a new piece rather than correct the existing one. We’ll always give honest recommendations so you can choose the best option for your budget. All repair or corrective work is quoted with an estimate not to exceed based on actual labor and time. While we occasionally provide courtesy discounts, they aren’t guaranteed on future projects.

Clipboard with CORE Power Coating work order form

Our Work Proven capability across industries and applications.

From truckload-size industrial orders to complex custom parts, our team handles projects that demand precision, consistency, and speed. We regularly support fabrication shops, infrastructure projects, agricultural equipment, and specialty applications that other shops turn away.

Request a Quote

Our Clients Trusted by teams who depend on precision.

Manufacturers, fabricators, contractors, and municipalities rely on CORE for consistent quality, fast turnaround, and finishes that meet spec—job after job.

View Testimonials

Mr Tri-Cities

These guys are AMAZING! Excellent service from start to finish. Great communication and great work. I highly recommend them and will definitely be back again.

Bryce Kelly

Can’t say enough good things about CORE Powder Coating. If you’re anywhere in the Tri-Cities and need powder coating done right, these are the guys to call. I brought them my diving board and James walked me through the whole process up front. He explained how they strip it down, prep and clean the surface, then do the powder coating and curing. The finish came out absolutely beautiful. It’s smooth and even and looks brand new. On top of the quality, they got everything done in a very timely manner with no surprises along the way. James and Melissa are awesome and really easy to work with. Best powder coating shop in the Kennewick and Pasco area. I’ll be bringing all my future work to CORE.

American Enigma

I can’t say enough good things about Core Powder Coating and the job they did on my wheels. I came in a little unsure about the color I wanted, and they were patient with me throughout the entire process. I was torn between gold and silver, but the color we settled on gave me the best of both worlds. It’s a beautiful light gold that shifts slightly depending on the angle and lighting, going from a soft gold to a subtle silver tone. More than anything, it was obvious they genuinely cared about the final result and making sure I was happy with it, rather than just finishing the job and moving on to the next customer. That level of care really stood out. I’ll absolutely be taking all future projects back to them without hesitation.

Andy Foster

We took two antique family metal chairs in for sandblasting and powder coating. They did such a wonderful job. We were extremely pleased with the outcome. We were so impressed that we took an additional antique bed frame in for restoration. They did a wonderful job with it. Very friendly, fast and professional people. Highly recommended. Thank you! Five stars!!!!

Tanner Hamilton

Core Powder Coating killed it with the wheels on my Porsche Cayenne! They got me in immediately and had it done very quickly. Great shop to work with and I will definitely be recommending clients from my shop to them!

Curtis Trembley

I walked in at about 0930 with a dirty motorcycle windshield. I was hoping they could powdercoat the hardware black to match my bike. I expected just to get a quote and an appointment to bring it back in to get done. They told me they would handle the dissambly and could probably have it done same day for under a hundred dollars. I got a call at 1400 telling me it was ready for pick up. It looks great! It's not often these days that I walk into a business and they exceed expectations. This place is exceptional. 👌

Al Drake

Quality. Timely. Professional. The team and equipment at CORE are nothing but the best! When I drop my projects off with James and the team I know I’ve got nothing else to worry about. Often only one day turn around times! It’s always a pleasure doing business. - AL Puri-T Welding and Fabrication

anthony savino

Excellent company to work with. Made a custom front door and needed a quick turnaround. James went above and beyond expectations to get it done fast! The speed of the turnaround was great but the quality of the work was even more impressive! Easy to work with and very reasonable prices. I highly recommend these guys for any of your powder coating needs!

Douglas Carl

Core was awesome! I needed a gate powder coated with a short turnaround time. They accommodated my schedule and the work product was great! I can’t recommend enough!

Aaron Parker

High quality and very friendly.

Bob Byrd

We had our fence sandblasted & powder coated, turned out awesome. Thanks you guys for helping load it and secure it properly. See you soon.

Braden Stauffer

Great communication, top tier pricing! Very fair to work with. Will return in the future

Rick Miller

If you need powder coating these are your guys. I was ready to do the frame for my 65 Malibu SS, they turned it around FAST and it looks amazing. You will not be disappointed!

Steve Sloan

They did a very good job on a 1968 double snowmobile trailer that is being converted over to a kayak trailer. I will recommend any work. I like this too.My friends and family and I will be a repeat customer.

TheBauldsasquatch

These guys ( James, Garrett and Melissa) are exceptional. High quality and customer service. My rims look amazing!

Chuck Allen

Core Powder Coating redid our outdoor spiral staircase in a very timely manner. It went to them looking rusty, very old, and terrible. It came back within the week looking brand new, just as we had hoped and the price was right. The owner was very easy to deal with and was concerned we were pleased with final results. Would highly recommend them.

Jarrad Henry

James & Aaron are amazing. Great prices & same day turnaround on some of our smaller powder coating jobs. I’ve worked with several other Tri-city powder coaters & Core comes in first. Thanks again gentleman

Sean Flanagan

I’ve had to use a handful of powder shops over the years and these guys just can’t be beat on quality / service / expertise. If you’ve been searching for the best, then congrats, because you just found them.

Colleen Burns

James Yates and crew are friendly and professional. The powder coating finish is exceptional. Very pleased with pricing and turn around time. Well done.

509.940.1498