With the popularity of powder coating on the rise, many shops are popping up claiming to offer expert services. However, powder coating is a science that requires precise equipment, chemistry knowledge, and preparation skills. If you are trusting your valuable car parts, industrial prototypes, or patio furniture to a shop, you need to know how to vet them. Here is a guide on what to look for when hiring a powder coating service in New Jersey (https://rustylions.com/).
1. Surface Preparation Capabilities This is the single most important factor. The "secret" to powder coating isn't the powder; it's the prep. If a shop just sprays over old paint or rust, the coating will peel in months. You must ask: "Do you sandblast in-house?" A premier powder coating service in New Jersey, like Rusty Lions, considers sandblasting a mandatory first step. They have the equipment to strip metal down to its raw, white-metal state. This creates a surface profile (roughness) that allows the powder to mechanically lock onto the part. If a shop relies only on a quick chemical wipe-down, look elsewhere.
2. Oven Capacity and Equipment The curing process requires sustaining specific temperatures (usually around 400°F) for a set amount of time. "Home oven" setups lead to uneven curing, brittle finishes, and discoloration. When investigating a powder coating service in New Jersey, ask about their equipment. Rusty Lions operates state-of-the-art coating lines and large industrial ovens. This allows them to handle everything from small brackets to large architectural railings with consistent heat distribution, ensuring a proper cure every time.
3. Experience and Portfolio Powder coating has a learning curve. Controlling the electrostatic charge, preventing "Faraday cage" effects (where powder won't go into corners), and avoiding "orange peel" textures takes skill. Rusty Lions boasts over 20 years of experience. A reputable shop should be able to show you a portfolio of past work—look for smooth finishes, no runs, and complex parts that are well-covered.
4. Range of Services (Beyond Just Powder) The best shops offer comprehensive metal finishing solutions. Sometimes, powder coating isn't the right answer—maybe you need Cerakote for a high-heat exhaust, or maybe the part requires welding repair before coating. A top-tier powder coating service in New Jersey will offer these complementary services. Rusty Lions provides welding, sandblasting, Cerakote, and even rim repair, making them a "one-stop-shop" for metal restoration.
5. Turnaround and Customer Service Communication is key. Does the shop answer the phone? do they give clear estimates? Do they stick to their timelines? Rusty Lions prides itself on prompt, professional service. They understand that whether you are a manufacturer in Paterson waiting on parts for an assembly line, or a homeowner in Sparta waiting for patio chairs for a party, reliability matters.
6. Location and Logistics Finally, consider the logistics. Shipping heavy metal parts is expensive. Finding a local powder coating service in New Jersey that serves your area is crucial. Rusty Lions is conveniently located in Franklin, NJ, and services a wide radius including Wayne, Mahwah, and Newton. Their local presence means you can drop off parts, discuss the project face-to-face, and save on shipping.
Conclusion Your project is too important to risk on an amateur operation. By prioritizing surface prep, equipment quality, and experience, you can find a partner that delivers results. Rusty Lions checks every box, establishing themselves as the trusted choice for anyone seeking a high-quality powder coating service in New Jersey.