--- title: "Alloy Wheels Refurbishment: Powder Coating Vs Spray Painting" description: In this article we discuss whether powder coating or spray painting is best for refurbishing alloy wheels. image: https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/spray.jpg --- Call us: 01945 464 637 [![GLW Engineering & Construction Ltd](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/GLW%20Engineering%20Dec2016/Image/glw-logo21-300x80.png)](http://www.glwengineering.co.uk/) # The GLW Engineering Blog [Powder Coating](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/powder-coating), [Shot Blasting](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/shot-blasting), [Sand Blasting](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/sand-blasting) ## [Alloy Wheels Refurbishment: Powder Coating Vs Spray Painting](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/alloy-wheels-powder-coating-vs-spray-painting) ![spray](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/spray.jpg?width=800&name=spray.jpg) Refurbishing alloy wheels can give a vehicle a completely [new lease of life.](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/is-it-worth-getting-my-alloy-wheels-powder-coated) One of the questions each workshop owner faces is whether to use [powder coating](https://www.glwengineering.co.uk/powder-coating/) or spray painting. Each method comes with advantages and disadvantage for both the shop and the client. Let’s take a closer look at the two approaches. ## [![Download our fantastic FREE guide to shot blasting & powder coating!](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2730834/ea8f5019-82d3-4413-982e-f1f37177df79.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2730834/ea8f5019-82d3-4413-982e-f1f37177df79) ## Powder Coating For Alloy Wheels Alloy wheels require extra protection against weather elements and debris they encounter on the road. [Powder coating doesn’t just make alloy wheels look appealing](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/the-guide-to-shot-blasting-powder-coating-pillar-page), it offers resistance against impact damage, chemicals, solvents, and precipitation. ### Advantages Of Powder Coating For Alloy Wheels: - Durability – [powder coating withstands high impact damage](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/is-it-worth-getting-my-alloy-wheels-powder-coated) without chipping or cracking. The powder particles fuse together and adhere to the wheel surface to [ensure longevity](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/are-powder-coated-wheels-durable-and-robust). - Eco-Friendliness – unlike some paints used for alloy wheel coating, the powder method doesn’t employ solvents or release VOCs into the atmosphere, thus being a fairly environmentally-friendly method of alloy wheel refurbishment. - Full Coverage – alloy wheels often have intricate designs and hard-to-reach spots. Powder coating ensures full coverage of the wheel surface regardless of design complexity. - Cost- Effective – even though the initial cost of powder coating may be higher than painting, its impressive longevity and durability turn into a high ROI. ### ** **Disadvantages Of Powder Coating For Alloy Wheels: - Special equipment – special application equipment and a spray booth is required. - Time – [powder coating is slightly more time consuming than spray painting.](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/how-long-does-wheel-powder-coating-take) Some car owners believe that powder coating adds additional weight to the wheel as opposed to spray painting. The extra weight is negligible and don’t make any difference to road performance. ## Spray Painting For Alloy Wheels Spray painting is a popular way to coat alloy wheels for its simple application and availability. ### Advantages Of Spray Painting For Alloy Wheels: - Smooth Finish – smooth finish is easier to achieve with spray painting than with powder coating. - Colour Selection – paint comes in a bigger variety of colours than powder coating. Accordingly, for clients looking for something special colour-wise, spray painting may be the right choice. - Initial Cost – the initial cost of paint is usually lower than of powder coating. However, paint needs more frequent applications, so in the long run may be more expensive. ### ** **Disadvantages Of Spray Painting For Alloy Wheels: - Lack of Durability – paint is much less durable than powder coating. It chips and cracks with time, calling for further refurbishment and extra expense. - Several Coats – in order to achieve a uniform finish, several coats of paint may be required, which can make the process tedious and time-consuming. - Colour Retention – paint tends to fade with time while powder coating stays bright and fresh for many years. ## Powder Coating Vs Painting: Which One To Choose Which one is right for alloy wheels? It depends on the client’s wishes and requirements. Overall, powder coating seems to be the best choice for alloy wheel refurbishment unless you are on an extra tight budget, need a quick fix or require a rare colour. At GLW Engineering, we offer powder-coating services for many different materials. For more information about powder coating and other services,[ please call 01945 464637.](https://www.glwengineering.co.uk/contact/) Image source: [Pixabay](https://pixabay.com/photos/spray-cans-color-cans-of-paint-3349588/) [![New call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2730834/e69859af-fa1e-4928-bd48-c55c921b1fc2.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2730834/e69859af-fa1e-4928-bd48-c55c921b1fc2) July 22, 2019 / by [Geoffrey White](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white) ##### Share this entry - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [![New call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2730834/fdece9bc-51e5-43b3-8faa-397370d93e3c.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2730834/fdece9bc-51e5-43b3-8faa-397370d93e3c) ### Subscribe to Email Updates [![New call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2730834/a5d320f6-811f-48df-ae6c-a627a63dea3d.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2730834/a5d320f6-811f-48df-ae6c-a627a63dea3d) ### Latest Posts - [![How To Protect Metal Railings From Corrosion](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/metal-railing.jpg "How To Protect Metal Railings From Corrosion") **How To Protect Metal Railings From CorrosionApril 01, 2021 - 04:50 PM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/how-to-protect-metal-railings-from-corrosion) Rust can not only affect the appearance of [metal railings](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/the-guide-to-railings-handrails), but also their structural integrity, posing a potential safety hazard to users. It isn’t just visible corrosion you need to watch out for. If appropriate preventive steps are not taken, rusting may even occur from the inside, seriously compromising the strength of the railings and causing[...] - [![How To Avoid Rust On Your Steel Balustrades](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/rusty-railing.jpg "How To Avoid Rust On Your Steel Balustrades") **How To Avoid Rust On Your Steel BalustradesMarch 25, 2021 - 04:29 PM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/how-to-avoid-rust-on-your-steel-balustrades) [Steel is an excellent choice of metal for balustrades](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/suitable-type-of-metal-for-outdoor-railings-and-handrails), as it offers decent resistance to rust and tarnishing as well as an eye-catching appearance that is both sleek and contemporary. However, despite its weather resistant properties, steel is not totally free from corrosion, particularly if it is poorly maintained. - [![Aluminium Or Steel Balustrades: Which Is The Most Sustainable Option?](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/metal-balustrades.jpg "Aluminium Or Steel Balustrades: Which Is The Most Sustainable Option?") **Aluminium Or Steel Balustrades: Which Is The Most Sustainable Option?March 18, 2021 - 04:06 PM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/aluminium-or-steel-balustrades-sustainable-option) When you’re choosing balustrades, handrails, and railings for a project, there are many reasons why you may opt for one material over another. For example, you may prioritise appearance, durability, corrosion resistance, or cost, with the decision likely to be influenced by factors such as the location of the metalwork, the environmental[...] - [![3 Ways That Shot Blasting Can Improve Your Metalwork](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/rusted-metal-blasting.jpg "3 Ways That Shot Blasting Can Improve Your Metalwork") **3 Ways That Shot Blasting Can Improve Your MetalworkMarch 11, 2021 - 03:37 PM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/3-ways-that-shot-blasting-can-improve-your-metalwork) Shot blasting is an abrasive ‘blast’ surface treatment that uses round metal shots that are propelled under high velocity,[ commonly to polish a metal substrate, to strengthen it, or to repair damaged metalwork](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/refreshing-equipment-with-shot-blasting) by closing cracks or tiny tears. The force required to propel the particles is achieved using a centrifuge or wheel, spun at high[...] - [![Paint Vs Powder Coating For Steel Fabrications](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/paint-cans.jpg "Paint Vs Powder Coating For Steel Fabrications") **Paint Vs Powder Coating For Steel FabricationsMarch 04, 2021 - 03:14 PM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/paint-vs-powder-coating-for-steel-fabrications) Surface finishing is vital for coating reactive metals such as steel. Without a suitable finish, oxidation can cause rust to form, which is not only unsightly but also threatens to weaken the structure, hastening its premature failure. Surface coatings are, therefore, more than just a way to improve the aesthetics of a [steel fabricated ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/steel-staircase-fabrication-guide)object, as[...] - [![The Latest Trends In Laser Welding And How It Can Save You Money](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/filipa-saldanha-TtOdr8tYtUU-unsplash.jpg "The Latest Trends In Laser Welding And How It Can Save You Money") **The Latest Trends In Laser Welding And How It Can Save You MoneyNovember 13, 2020 - 11:00 AM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/the-latest-trends-in-laser-welding-and-how-it-can-save-you-money) With the rapid advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI) in recent years, many aspects of manufacture and fabrication will likely be revolutionised in the not-too-distant future. The fully automated laser welding machine, for example, could be on the horizon sooner than you think: able to decide for itself where and how to weld, to identify[...] - [![Manufacturing Or Fabrication? What Are The Differences, And Do They Matter?](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/daniel-smyth-03TaAgmtXwM-unsplash.jpg "Manufacturing Or Fabrication? What Are The Differences, And Do They Matter?") **Manufacturing Or Fabrication? What Are The Differences, And Do They Matter?November 06, 2020 - 11:00 AM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/manufacturing-or-fabrication-what-are-the-differences-and-do-they-matter) To many non-specialists, manufacturing and fabrication are simply two workshop-based processes that use various techniques to assemble or produce metal products. Often, the two terms are used interchangeably, with little awareness of the differences. While many of the methods used in manufacturing and fabrication may be similar, the difference[...] - [![How To Guarantee Quality Results From Your Welding & Metal Fabrication Contractor](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/glenn-hansen-VW4xiLRr-do-unsplash.jpg "How To Guarantee Quality Results From Your Welding & Metal Fabrication Contractor") **How To Guarantee Quality Results From Your Welding & Metal Fabrication ContractorOctober 30, 2020 - 11:00 AM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/how-to-guarantee-quality-results-from-your-welding-metal-fabrication-contractor) The quality of the weld is extremely important in any fabrication project, as it guarantees the integrity, durability, and longevity of any structure. Quality control checks during and after welding are vital to ensure that high standards have been achieved. Any weakness in the weld, from tiny holes to splits or cracks, could be disastrous in the[...] - [![Fabrication Using Sheet Metal: Why Thickness Matters For Metal Fabrication Projects](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/craig-davis-sL0TGOevb78-unsplash.jpg "Fabrication Using Sheet Metal: Why Thickness Matters For Metal Fabrication Projects") **Fabrication Using Sheet Metal: Why Thickness Matters For Metal Fabrication ProjectsOctober 23, 2020 - 11:00 AM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/fabrication-using-sheet-metal-why-thickness-matters-for-metal-fabrication-projects) The fabrication of sheet metal is a highly specialised task, requiring expert knowledge, skills, and equipment. If you’re planning to outsource the architectural steelwork for a civil engineering, commercial, or construction project, it’s vital to employ the services of a competent fabricator who can guarantee high-quality finishing that complies[...] - [![What Are The Most Effective Corrosion Prevention Coatings?](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/chain-4239167_1920.jpg "What Are The Most Effective Corrosion Prevention Coatings?") **What Are The Most Effective Corrosion Prevention Coatings?October 16, 2020 - 04:48 PM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/what-are-the-most-effective-corrosion-prevention-coatings) Traditional galvanisation and newer hot zinc spray technologies are standard anti-corrosion treatments for vulnerable metals. However, they may not always be desirable or even necessary. Several other corrosion-resistant treatments are found in the form of coatings. The suitability of these will depend on several factors, such as aesthetics,[...] ### Recent Posts ### Posts by Topic - [Structural Steel Fabrication (44)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/structural-steel-fabrication) - [Powder Coating (31)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/powder-coating) - [Handrailing Fabrication (15)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/handrailing-fabrication) - [Shot Blasting (13)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/shot-blasting) - [Metal Fabrication in Norwich (12)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/metal-fabrication-in-norwich) - [Grit Blasting (6)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/grit-blasting) - [Soda Blasting (6)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/soda-blasting) - [Insider (5)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/insider) - [Sand Blasting (5)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/sand-blasting) - [Abrasive Blast Cleaning Methods (4)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/abrasive-blast-cleaning-methods) - [Balustrade Fabrication (4)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/balustrade-fabrication) - [Hot Zinc Spraying (4)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/hot-zinc-spraying) - [Plasma Cutting (4)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/plasma-cutting) - [Security Gates (4)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/security-gates) - [Steel Staircase (4)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/steel-staircase) - [Blasting Methods (3)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/blasting-methods) - [Security Gates & Barriers (3)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/security-gates-barriers) - [Welding (3)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/welding) - [Traditional Galvanising (2)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/traditional-galvanising) - [Vacancies (2)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/vacancies) - [Bicycle Park (1)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/bicycle-park) - [Trolleys (1)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/trolleys) [see all](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/alloy-wheels-powder-coating-vs-spray-painting#) Search this site on Google Search Google © Copyright - GLW Engineering & Construction Ltd - Developed by [Viscribe Ltd](http://www.viscribe.co.uk) - [T & C’s](http://www.glwengineering.co.uk/t-cs/) - [Privacy](http://www.glwengineering.co.uk/privacy/) - [Smartwater](http://www.glwengineering.co.uk/smartwater/)