Powder coating is how most of our metalwork gets its colour — and it's far more durable than ordinary paint. But "what colour?" is only half the decision. Here's how to pick a finish that looks right and lasts.
What powder coating actually is
Instead of liquid paint, powder coating uses a fine dry pigment. The bare steel is cleaned, the powder is applied with an electrostatic charge so it clings evenly to every face and edge, and the whole part is baked in an oven until the powder melts and cures into a single hard shell. The result is a coat that's bonded to the metal — not just sitting on top of it — so it resists chips, scratches, UV fade and weather far better than a brush or spray finish.
Picking a colour: the RAL system
Powder colours are specified by RAL number — a European standard so "RAL 9005" means the same deep black to us, to you and to anyone else. A few we're asked for again and again:
- RAL 9005 Jet Black — the default for wall art, signs and bracketry; crisp and timeless.
- RAL 9016 Traffic White — clean and bright, great for lettering and modern interiors.
- RAL 7016 Anthracite Grey — the go-to for contemporary garden and architectural work.
- RAL 6005 Moss Green and RAL 3005 Wine Red — for when a piece wants some character.
If you have a brand colour or a paint swatch to match, send it over — we can usually source the matching RAL powder.
Matt, satin or gloss?
The same colour reads very differently depending on its sheen level:
- Matt hides fingerprints and surface imperfections best, and gives a soft, modern look. Our most popular choice for interiors.
- Satin is the middle ground — a gentle sheen that's easy to wipe clean.
- Gloss is bright and hard-wearing, and easiest to keep spotless, but it shows every mark and reflection.
Textured and special finishes
Beyond flat colours we can do fine-texture and hammered finishes that add grip and disguise marks brilliantly — ideal for handles, outdoor furniture and anything that takes daily handling. Metallic and antique-effect powders are available too for a more decorative piece.
Rule of thumb: for outdoors, a textured matt in a mid-to-dark colour hides weathering and grime best and needs the least upkeep. For a feature piece indoors, a smooth matt or satin in a bold colour does the work.
Indoor vs outdoor
All our powder coats handle UK weather, but for exposed and coastal sites we'll recommend a finish rated for it and make sure edges are fully covered, since edges are where any coating is most vulnerable. A quick rinse now and then keeps an outdoor coat looking fresh — there's more on upkeep in our care guide.
Still deciding? Tell us the colour you have in mind and where the piece will live, and we'll recommend the sheen and texture to match.
Next up: which steel lasts outdoors? Or browse the garden range.