How Much Does Powder Coating Cost? [2025 Data]
The average powder coating cost is $756, with most homeowners paying between $180 and $2,400 depending on project size, material, prep, and finish type
Powder coating costs depend on item size, complexity, and chosen powder type.
Powder coating offers a durable, attractive finish for metal items, and professional prep and application ensure long-lasting results.
Add-ons like custom colors or textures may increase your total.
Proper maintenance can extend the life of your powder coating.
This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by an Angi Editor in accordance with our AI policy.
Powder coating cost averages $756, with an average range from $393 to $1,227 for most home projects. Homeowners may pay as little as $180 for small items or up to $2,400 for large, complex jobs. Powder coating is a smart way to protect and beautify metal furniture, appliances, and more. We’ll walk through what drives cost, how to budget, and what to expect whether you coat a single chair or an entire fence.
Powder Coating Cost Factors
Understanding what affects powder coating cost helps you budget and plan for your project. Let's look at the main drivers below.
Project Type
Powder coating is used for many household and outdoor items, from car parts to patio furniture. The type of item you coat has a big impact on cost, which varies by the item’s size, complexity, and whether it's a first-time application or a recoat. For example, small automotive parts or wheels cost less than large gates or fences. New items are less expensive to coat than those needing old paint stripped or rust removed, as extra prep is required.
| Item Type | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Patio furniture | $100–$500 per item |
| Fencing | $6–$8 per lin. ft. |
| Appliances | $75–$275 per item |
| Railings | $8–$12 per lin. ft. |
| Doors and windows | $50–$75 each |
| Gates | $6–$8 per sq. ft. |
Size
The size and surface area of your item are key factors in powder coating cost. Larger or more detailed items take more prep and powder, which increases the price. Most shops charge by the square foot for larger items, and a per-piece rate for smaller ones. For example, coating a single chair costs much less than coating a full patio set. Small projects, like a mailbox or rim, are at the lower end, while large gates or fences are at the high end.
Materials
The base material—such as steel, aluminum, or wrought iron—affects powder coating cost. Some metals require more prep, especially if they’re rusty or previously painted. The type of powder used also matters. Standard powders are less expensive, while specialty powders like metallic or textured finishes cost more.
Labor
Most powder coating is done by specialized shops, contractors, or mobile services. Hiring a local powder coating contractor costs $50 to $150 per hour, but some charge flat fees depending on the project. Labor includes prepping the item, masking, spraying the powder, curing in an oven, and inspecting for quality. Complex shapes or detailed finishes take more time and skill, raising labor costs. Costs can be higher in urban areas or regions with higher demand for powder coating services.
Prep
Prep is a crucial part of powder coating cost. Standard prep includes cleaning, degreasing, and sandblasting to remove rust or old coatings. Depending on how many layers of grime you need to strip from the item, sandblasting costs between $1.50 and $7 per square foot. If your item needs extra work—like extensive rust removal or repairs—expect to pay more. Optional add-ons like masking, taping, or plugging holes for complex items may add to your total costs.
Powder Coating Ongoing Costs
Let’s look at what you can expect after your powder coating is complete.
Maintenance
Routine cleaning and gentle care keep powder coating looking its best. Use mild soap and water—avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers. Most homeowners can maintain powder-coated items themselves, but professional cleaning services are available for $25 to $80 per hour. High-wear items might need touch-ups every few years.
Repairs
Chips, scratches, or peeling can happen, especially with heavy use or outdoor exposure. If damage is widespread or corrosion is present, a full recoat may be needed, costing as much as a new job. Weigh repair costs against full reapplication to decide the best route.
DIY Powder Coating vs. Hiring a Pro
DIY powder coating can save on labor but comes with upfront costs for equipment and supplies. A basic DIY kit requires a spray gun, powder, and safety gear. Add in an electric oven (not your kitchen oven), plus prep materials like sandpaper and masks. You’ll also need time and skill to prep, spray, and cure your item safely. DIY is practical for small, simple items and for those with experience.
DIY risks include poor adhesion, uneven finish, or health hazards from improper handling of powders. Hiring a pro costs more but delivers a durable, even finish and includes all prep and safety steps. For large, complex, or valuable items, hiring a professional is best for quality and durability.
Tips to Reduce Powder Coating Costs
Use these tips to keep your powder coat costs budget-friendly:
Get multiple quotes from local powder coating shops.
Bundle multiple items for volume discounts.
Opt for standard colors or finishes to avoid specialty upcharges.
Prepare items yourself (cleaning, basic masking) if allowed by the shop.
Schedule during off-peak times for potential discounts.
Maintain coated items properly to extend finish life and delay recoating.
How Angi Gets Its Cost Data
Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We survey real Angi customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to [email protected]. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.
Powder coating has many benefits. It works as an alternative to paint for materials that paint doesn’t stick to well, like metal. Because powder coating goes through a curing process, powder-coated objects are easy to clean and durable, resisting issues like rust, chipping, cracking, and UV damage. It can also use less materials compared to painting.
Powder coating can be less expensive than traditional spray painting. If you’re doing it yourself, upfront costs can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars higher than hiring a pro. But if you plan to powder coat many items and use the oven and gun often, the upfront cost may be worth it.
On average, powder coating should last from 15 to 20 years. However, some powder coating applications may last up to 40 years, depending on a couple factors. Skilled application helps, so hiring a pro to tackle this project can pay off in the long run. While powder coating is durable, it will last longer on objects stored inside or under a covering than objects outside in the sun, rain, or snow.
Yes, powder coating is rust-resistant and durable. It resists peeling, cracking, chipping, rust, and damage due to abrasion. It also retains color and is UV resistant. But if the powder coating isn’t applied properly, moisture can reach the metal object underneath. The metal can start to rust, which may show up beneath the powder coating.
You can remove powder coating with a chemical stripper, in a burn-off oven, or by sandblasting. Chemical strippers can remove most powder coatings in 20 minutes or less. But they are harsh and must be treated with care.
