Cerakote is a popular choice for firearm finishes and other applications due to its durability and resistance to wear and tear. But what happens when you want to change the color or simply need to touch up a damaged area? Can you paint over Cerakote? The short answer is: it's possible, but not straightforward and not always recommended. This guide will explore the complexities of painting over Cerakote, outlining the challenges, considerations, and best practices for achieving a successful finish.
Understanding the Challenges of Painting Over Cerakote
Cerakote's inherent properties present several challenges when attempting to paint over it:
-
Exceptional Adhesion: Cerakote is renowned for its strong adhesion to the substrate. This same characteristic makes it difficult for other paints to adhere properly. The surface is incredibly smooth and dense, offering limited surface area for paint to grip.
-
Chemical Resistance: Cerakote's resistance to chemicals means that many primers and paints may simply not bond effectively. The paint may peel, chip, or otherwise fail to create a lasting, durable finish.
-
Smooth Surface: The incredibly smooth surface of Cerakote doesn't provide the necessary tooth for optimal paint adhesion. Paints typically require a textured surface to achieve a strong bond.
When Painting Over Cerakote Might Be Necessary
Despite the challenges, there are specific situations where painting over Cerakote might be necessary:
-
Minor Touch-Ups: Small scratches or blemishes might be easier to cover with paint than to re-Cerakote the entire piece.
-
Camouflage or Custom Designs: Artists might choose to add details or patterns over an existing Cerakote base.
-
Cost-Effectiveness: Re-Cerakoting an entire item can be expensive. Painting might be a more budget-friendly option for minor modifications.
Preparing the Surface for Painting Over Cerakote
Proper surface preparation is crucial for any successful paint job, and it’s even more critical when working with Cerakote. Here's the recommended process:
-
Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the Cerakote surface with a degreaser to remove any oil, grease, or dirt. Allow it to dry completely.
-
Abrasion: Lightly abrade the surface using fine-grit sandpaper (at least 400 grit). This creates a slightly rougher texture that improves paint adhesion. Be cautious not to sand through the Cerakote layer.
-
Primer: Apply a high-quality adhesion promoter or primer specifically designed for use on plastics or metals, depending on the underlying substrate. This creates a bonding layer between the Cerakote and the new paint. Multiple thin coats are generally better than one thick coat. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
-
Testing: Before committing to the entire project, test the paint and primer on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure compatibility and desired results.
Choosing the Right Paint
Not all paints will adhere well to Cerakote, even with proper preparation. Consider these factors:
-
Type of Paint: Acrylic paints generally work better than other types. Ensure the paint is specifically formulated for the material you’re working with (e.g., metal, polymer).
-
Adhesion Properties: Look for paints with strong adhesion properties and good durability.
-
Flexibility: Choose a paint with some flexibility to accommodate expansion and contraction of the underlying material, especially important for firearms subjected to temperature changes and recoil.
Applying the Paint
Apply thin, even coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Multiple thin coats will provide better coverage and a smoother finish than one thick coat. Use appropriate techniques based on the type of paint you're using (e.g., airbrushing, brush painting).
Conclusion: Weighing the Options
While painting over Cerakote is feasible with careful preparation and the right materials, it's not always the ideal solution. The challenges associated with adhesion and the potential for the paint to fail make it essential to consider re-Cerakoting as a viable alternative, especially for high-wear applications like firearms. However, for minor touch-ups or artistic customization, with proper preparation and the correct materials, a successful paint job over Cerakote is achievable. Remember to always prioritize safety and use proper personal protective equipment when working with paints and solvents.
