The truth is utilizing prepainted metal saves you money by eliminating the costs associated with an in-house paint shop. When you post-paint, you have the added expense of labor, materials, scrap and inventory. Plus there are numerous costs (and headaches) dealing with EPA and OSHA compliance. It can cost big bucks making sure you’re properly handling waste, emissions and clean ups. In addition, storing paint in your facility results in higher insurance premiums. To learn more to determine if prepaint is for you, download the cost analysis form under Education on the NCCA web site, www.coilcoating.org.

Myth 2: Prepainted metal can’t be joined.

Again, not true. Coil-coated materials join easily and beautifully. They can utilize any number of joining methods such as adhesive and mechanical assemblies with or without fasteners. Some can even be welded. No matter the joining method, prepainted metal still retains a more beautiful and flawless surface than post-painted metal. View the tutorial, "How to Join Prepainted Metal" on the NCCA website for additional information.

Myth 3: Prepainted metal is difficult to form.

False. Prepainted metal actually forms exceptionally well. The fact is coil-coated metal can be formed even with extreme bends, and draws with no damage, loss in surface quality or beauty. Depending on the technology, the coating can actually be more flexible than the substrate. Prepainted metal can be formed and shaped with a finish that is superior to post paint. For additional information on forming, view the tutorial, "How to Form Prepainted Metal" on the NCCA web site.

Myth 4: Prepainted metal corrodes easily along cut edges.

This is just a myth as well. In fact, tests show prepainted parts, even with exposed edges, have superior exposure resistance compared to post-painted parts. That’s because of the uniformity of treatment on both sides and the film thickness of prepaint. View, The Prepainted Cut-Edge: Tougher Than You Think tutorial for more information.

Myth 5: Prepainted coils are difficult to handle.

Not accurate. With a little bit of care and changes in your storage procedures, prepainted metals are easy to handle. You can transport and store prepainted materials without scuffing and marring the surface. The tutorial, How to Handle Coil Coated Metals, on the NCCA web site will provide you with additional information.

So forget those common misunderstandings and start dealing with the realities of prepainted metal. For more information about converting your plant to prepaint, be sure to visit www.coilcoating.org.

By The National Coil Coating Association