Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Have questions about Cerakote? Our Frequently Asked Questions cover everything you need to know about Cerakote ceramic coatings, including the application process, coating performance, compatible materials, turnaround times, care instructions, and more. Whether you're coating automotive parts, motorcycle components, tools, or industrial equipment, we've compiled the answers to help you make an informed decision. If you can't find what you're looking for, our team is always happy to help.

Frequantly Asked Questions

Cerakote FAQ | Coating Questions & Answers | Apex Custom Coatings

What is Cerakote?

Cerakote is a ceramic-based thin-film coating designed to provide exceptional corrosion resistance, wear resistance, chemical protection, and long-lasting colour retention. It is widely used on automotive parts, motorcycle components, firearms, tools, and industrial equipment where durability and appearance matter.

What can Cerakote be applied to?

Cerakote can be applied to many different substrates, including aluminium, steel, stainless steel, titanium, polymers, plastics, carbon fibre, wood, and certain composite materials.

Is Cerakote better than powder coating?

Cerakote and powder coating are designed for different applications. Cerakote is significantly thinner, allowing it to maintain critical tolerances while providing excellent abrasion resistance, corrosion protection, and chemical resistance. Powder coating is thicker and better suited to larger components where coating thickness isn't a concern.

How long does Cerakote last?

Cerakote is designed to provide long-lasting protection and can last for many years when properly applied and maintained. Its lifespan depends on the environment, frequency of use, and the application, but it significantly outperforms traditional paint and many other protective finishes in terms of durability and corrosion resistance.

Does Cerakote prevent rust?

Yes. Cerakote provides outstanding corrosion resistance by creating a protective ceramic barrier between the substrate and moisture, chemicals, and environmental contaminants.

Will Cerakote scratch?

While no coating is completely scratch-proof, Cerakote is extremely resistant to scratches, abrasion, and wear. It outperforms conventional paint and many powder coatings in demanding environments.

What is the difference between H Series and C Series?

H Series is oven cured and offers the highest durability, chemical resistance, and abrasion resistance.

C Series is air cured and designed for components that cannot be baked or operate at extremely high temperatures, such as exhaust systems and engine components.

What colours are available?

Cerakote offers hundreds of colours, along with metallics, clears and custom colour combinations.

How thick is Cerakote?

Cerakote is typically applied between 15–35 microns, making it ideal for precision components where maintaining tolerances is essential. (0.015mm - 0.035mm)

How do I care for Cerakote?

For the safest outcome, wash coated parts with mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners and harsh polishing compounds. Routine cleaning is usually all that's required to keep the coating looking its best.

How long does the coating process take?

Most projects are completed within 1 week, however depending on the complexity, size of the job it can take longer depending on current workshop demand. We will always be clear and infmoative of turnaround times.

Do I need to prepare my parts?

We professionally clean, prepare, and blast all components before coating to ensure maximum adhesion and durability however we do ask all parts are stipped to there simplist form, engine casing will need to be split with bearings and shafts ideally removed.

How much does is cost?

Every job is priced on application, condition, previous coatings and the type of coating are all veriables for pricing. Photos will help us to give a ball park figure however in person inspection will be final pricing.

Can Cerakote be applied over bare metal?

Yes. Due to Cerakote being an ultra thin film ceramic coating, no priming is needed, as long as the correct etch profile has been made then cerakote is perfect for bare metal.

Have an enquiry or question?

For any enquires please feel free to email enquiries@apexcustomcoatings.co.uk or call/whatsapp 07588434753.