Clearcoat finished zinc-coating for metal doors

 

I am planning to specify a zinc-coating with a clearcoat finish for an interior hollow metal door to be used as an upscale rental apartment entry. I know that galvanneal is the typical coating used in the metal door industry. However, I am not sure that this will give me the high-tech look that I want. I am wondering if I should pursue a hot-dipped product (if available).

I am assuming that there is some oil residue that will need to be removed prior to finishing.

I am also wondering what the best clear finish would be. Lacquer? Polyurethane?

I believe that the most durable finish whould be a clear powder coat. There are numerous shops that should be capable of this finish, including some of the zinc platers. Zinc plating may be found in a variety of different colored finishes depending upon which chromate conversion coating is used. You should ask to see representative samples before sending your doors for finsihing.

It is something that is done, in fact I have just wrapped up a job that we have been working on for a year! samples came out beautiful...

I understand powder coating to be a factory controlled application. Can anyone recommend a field-applied clear coat over natural zinc?