Search our quarter-million Q&As

Home of the finishing HOTLINE since 1989

-----

E-coating vs galvanized prior to powder coat

I have had two companies out to quote an iron deck railing at my home. One company states epoxy coating prior to powder coating is best and resists rusting. The other company, of course, states galvanization prior to powder coating is best. Who's right for my situation. I live in Michigan on a lake. Is the e-coating and galvanizing cost the same?

Carol Zima
consumer - St. Clair Shores, Michigan
2007

---

Galvanizing before powder coating is, in theory, the most robust and long lasting finish because the galvanizing, which is zinc, sacrificially protects the iron if the coating is scratched or has holidays. That said, the quality depends more on the skill of the application than on raw theory, and the reputation of the actual applicator is your best guide.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
Need quick confidential answers? $25
Need project assistance? $100/hr.
2007

Would the price for galvanizing expected to be the same or more than the cost for epoxy coating?

Carol Zima
- St. Clair Shores, Michigan
2007

---

The galvanizing is probably more expensive, but it can be hard to say without detailed specs.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
Need quick confidential answers? $25
Need project assistance? $100/hr.
2007

Sorry! Finishing.com is temporarily Read-Only.
Ted Mooney is retiring but I have several offers to take it over.
We're working hard to make sure we find it the best new home.

---

---