Can You paint over cerakote?

Can You Paint Over Cerakote?

Cerakote is a popular coating applied to various surfaces, including firearms, automotive parts, and other industrial equipment, to provide corrosion resistance and durability. Many users have asked whether it’s possible to paint over Cerakote, and the answer is not a simple one. In this article, we’ll explore the viability of painting over Cerakote, its limitations, and the best practices for achieving a successful outcome.

Can You Paint Over Cerakote?

To answer the question directly: no, you should not paint over Cerakote. Cerakote is a durable, thick coating that can be challenging to adhere to, and painting over it can compromise its performance. Additionally, the underlying material may be compromised, leading to long-term reliability issues.

Why Not Paint Over Cerakote?

Before diving into the reasons, let’s highlight the essential characteristics of Cerakote:

• Thick coating: Cerakote is applied in a thick layer, typically between 0.0005-0.005 inches, to provide exceptional corrosion protection and wear resistance.
• Difficult to sand: The coating is highly resistant to wear and scratches, making it challenging to sand or smooth out imperfections.
• Not a conventional surface: Cerakote is not a traditional, smooth surface that paint typically adheres to.

Here are some reasons why painting over Cerakote is not recommended:

• Incompatibility: The Cerakote coating may not be compatible with certain paint types, leading to poor adhesion, delamination, or flaking.
• Surface defects: Painting over Cerakote can hide surface defects, such as scratches, marks, or other imperfections, which may compromise the coating’s integrity.
• Increased risk of rust: The Cerakote coating can become compromised, leading to increased risk of rust or corrosion on the underlying material.

Alternatives to Painting Over Cerakote

Instead of painting over Cerakote, consider the following alternatives:

• Coat only the desired areas: Apply Cerakote only to the specific areas that require protection, such as moving parts or high-wear areas.
• Use Cerakote-compatible primers: Apply a primer specifically designed for Cerakote, which can enhance adhesion and provide a smooth surface for painting.
• Paint over previously painted areas: If the Cerakote coating has already been applied, and you need to paint specific areas, use a compatible paint and primer to achieve a smooth finish.

Best Practices for Painting over Cerakote (if necessary)

If, for any reason, you still want to paint over Cerakote, follow these best practices:

1. Clean the surface: Thoroughly clean the Cerakote-coated surface to remove any dirt, grime, or oils.
2. Use a Cerakote-compatible primer: Apply a primer specifically designed for Cerakote to create a strong bond between the coating and the paint.
3. Choose a compatible paint: Select a paint that is compatible with Cerakote and can adhere well to the coated surface.
4. Apply a thin coat of paint: Use a light touch and apply a thin coat of paint to minimize the risk of compromising the Cerakote coating.

Conclusion

In summary, it is not recommended to paint over Cerakote due to its thick, durable nature and potential for surface defects. Instead, consider alternatives, such as applying Cerakote to specific areas or using a Cerakote-compatible primer and paint. If, for any reason, you still need to paint over Cerakote, follow the best practices outlined in this article to minimize the risk of compromising the coating’s integrity.

Comparison Table: Cerakote vs. Paint

By understanding the limitations and characteristics of Cerakote, you can make informed decisions about how to apply and maintain this durable coating.