Because of its strength and durability, steel is commonly used in numerous commercial and residential applications. However, not all steel is the same. Mild steel, while great for both commercial and residential applications, is susceptible to corrosion, so applying a protective coat of paint is often reasonable.

However, why would anyone consider protecting corrosion-resistant metals, such as stainless steel alloys, from corrosion? Well, as it turns out, stainless steel can corrode in certain circumstances, and a powder coating is among the best ways to apply a protective coating to your stainless steel applications.

In this article, we'll discuss the process for powder coating stainless steel, whether it can and should be done, and why anyone would go through the trouble of additionally protecting an already corrosion-resistant material.

Why Powder Coat Stainless Steel?

Stainless steel is a strong, corrosion-resistant, and rather versatile alloy, but it's not entirely corrosion-proof. In fact, if you're living anywhere near a seashore, a chemical plant, or an otherwise moist and stormy environment, stainless steel will eventually begin to corrode.

Other causes for stainless steel corrosion might include superficial damage to the stainless steel surface, which naturally has a passive protective layer of chromium oxide. Admittedly, the protective layer is self-healing, but if your application demands additional protection, powder coating is the way to go.

It can, in fact, extend the longevity of your outdoor stainless steel fixtures and structures by forming a completely sealed protective layer around the steel. The main advantage of powder coating over typical liquid paint is that it's much more durable and doesn't crack unless severely damaged by significant impacts of cuts.

In fact, it's an excellent long-lasting topcoat solution if you're placing a stainless steel alloy in a non-hygienic, highly corrosive environment. But that's not all; besides its significant durability, powder coating also allows for customization — it offers vast color and surface finish choices.