DURABLE CERAMIC COATING · ROCHESTER, NEW YORK
How the Cerakote Process Works
Cerakote is not simply color sprayed onto a part. The finished coating depends on the work that comes before application: evaluating the project, preparing the substrate, protecting critical areas, applying the selected coating system, curing it correctly and inspecting the result.
START TO FINISH
What happens to your project.
This is a customer-facing overview of the professional workflow—not a DIY recipe. Exact preparation, products, timing and finishing requirements depend on the part, substrate, condition and selected system.
SEE THE SYSTEM
The visible finish is only part of the work.
These original illustrations simplify the major stages so you can visualize what is happening behind the scenes. They are explanatory graphics, not photographs of a specific customer project.
Preparation first
The coating stage does not begin until the substrate is clean, compatible and prepared for the selected Cerakote system.
Application technique matters
Coverage, spray technique and coating thickness are controlled parts of the process—not an afterthought.
The process continues after spraying
Flash, cure, cooling, unmasking and final inspection are part of completing the coating system.
Technical note: Cerakote's published H-Series data specifies that cure conditions vary by product, color and substrate, and notes that preparation and spray technique affect the finish.
WHY THE PROCESS MATTERS
Why Cerakote pricing reflects more than spray time.
Customers see the finished color. The job also includes project evaluation, preparation, masking, controlled application, cure time and inspection. A small or complex part can demand more hands-on preparation than its size suggests.
What can change the work involved?
Material / substrate
Existing finish
Contamination
Masking detail
Complex geometry
Selected series
Color / finish
Disassembly
Cure requirements
Condition of part
Preparation and process are part of the finish.
A quote is not based only on the visible surface area. We have to account for what the part is made from, what is already on it, how it must be protected and prepared, and what the selected finishing system requires.
That is why photos and project details matter when requesting a quote.
BEFORE YOUR PROJECT ARRIVES
Don't guess at the preparation.
Please do not sand, blast, strip or chemically treat a part just to “save a step” unless IKKIN Dip It has asked you to. The wrong preparation can damage a substrate, alter critical surfaces or create additional corrective work.
PROCESS FAQ
Questions customers ask before starting.
These answers explain the general system. Your specific project may require different preparation or finishing steps after we inspect the part.
Is Cerakote just paint?
Cerakote is a ceramic-based coating system with product-specific application and cure requirements. A professional result depends on substrate preparation, controlled application and the correct finishing schedule.
Does every Cerakote part get prepared exactly the same way?
No. The substrate, existing finish, condition and selected Cerakote system can change the preparation and cure approach.
Why do you mask or plug parts?
Some threads, bores, mating surfaces and dimensional areas must remain free of coating buildup so fit and function are preserved.
Why does preparation affect Cerakote durability?
Coating adhesion depends heavily on the condition and cleanliness of the surface underneath it. Contamination or inadequate preparation can compromise the finish.
Can I choose any Cerakote color?
IKKIN Dip It maintains a large Cerakote color catalog. Product availability, series and suitability can vary by application, so the project is matched to an appropriate coating.
How is Cerakote cured?
Cure schedules vary by product, color and substrate. Cerakote publishes system-specific schedules; IKKIN follows the requirements appropriate to the selected coating and part.
Should I strip or blast the part before bringing it in?
Please check with IKKIN first. Incorrect media, pressure, chemicals or sanding can damage a substrate or create additional corrective work.
How do I start a Cerakote project?
Use the quote builder and include the item, material, condition, requested color or look, and clear photos. That helps us evaluate the work before quoting.
READY TO PLAN IT?
Choose the look. Show us the part.
Browse the catalog, then send photos and project details through the quote builder. We'll use that information to understand the preparation and finishing work involved.