Understanding why hand-painted and living finishes are better for your hardware—especially in winter.
Explore Our Finishes →

At Old West Iron, we’re often asked: “Can I get this powder-coated?” The short answer? We don’t powder coat—and we don’t recommend it for cold-weather climates either.

In a world dominated by fast, mass-produced solutions, powder coating is often sold as the gold standard of durability. But when it comes to hand-forged iron hardware, that standard doesn't always hold up—especially outdoors, and especially in freezing conditions.

What Is Powder Coating—And Why Is It Popular?

Powder coating is a dry finishing process that involves electrostatically applying powder to a metal surface, which is then cured in a high-heat oven. It’s widely used in commercial manufacturing for furniture, tools, fencing, and appliances.

Yes, it’s quick. Yes, it’s cheap. But it's not the right fit for hand-forged architectural hardware—and here's why.

The Hidden Flaws of Powder Coating in Winter

In cold climates, powder coating has a tendency to crack, chip, and peel. Why?

• Rigidity: Powder coating lacks flexibility. When temperatures drop and metal expands or contracts, powder coatings can’t flex with the material—leading to micro-fractures.

• Moisture Traps: If moisture sneaks under the surface (from a scratch, nick, or imperfection), it rusts beneath the coating, often undetectable until it’s too late.

• No Touch-Up Options: Powder-coated hardware can’t be spot-repaired. Once compromised, it usually has to be stripped and redone entirely.

In short, powder coat may look nice at first, but in rugged or wet climates—and especially in freeze-thaw cycles—it just doesn't last.

What We Do Instead: Living, Hand-Painted Finishes

At Old West Iron, we use hand-applied, layered finishes that are made to age gracefully and weather naturally. These “living finishes” develop character over time—and can be easily touched up or sealed again when needed.

Our options include:

• Oil-Rubbed Bronze – a warm, dark finish with copper undertones

• Raw Iron – ideal for natural patina development

• Antique Pewter – for a cold-forged medieval look

• Rust Patina Sealed – gives you the aged, rusty look but protected

• Custom Color Matching – send us a sample or photo, and we’ll replicate it

Plus, all our finishes can be clear-coated or wax-sealed for additional protection—making them suitable for both interior and exterior use.

Need Powder Coat Anyway? We’ll Help You Arrange It

While we don’t offer powder coating in-house, we’re happy to ship your hardware raw so you can have it powder-coated locally—or we can refer you to a trusted third-party finisher for an extra fee. Just know the limitations before choosing that route.

Why It Matters: Finish Is About More Than Color

The finish you choose isn’t just about aesthetics. It determines:

• Durability

• Maintenance

• Weather Resistance

• Authenticity

If you're restoring a colonial barn, outfitting a mountain lodge, or building a forever home on your land—your finish should reflect your values. Hand-painted, repairable finishes aren't just more beautiful—they’re more honest, more sustainable, and built to evolve with your home.

Shop Hand-Forged Hardware, Built to Last

Our textures & finishes page explains all your options. You can also order sample kits to test finishes in your lighting and environment.

Browse the full catalog →

Written by the Old West Iron Forge Team
Crafting authentic American ironwork from our Idaho forge since 2011. Experience-backed, veteran-built, and proudly Made in the USA.