Railing - paint on site or powder coat?

[Smurf]

I'm having a new metal railing installed as part of a deck, and the supplier has offered two options:

1. Supply it powder coated and ready to go.

2. Paint it in the normal manner.

I have no idea which is the best way to go? Any advice? Does getting it powder coated mean it will never need painting?

This is just a normal household type steel safety railing like you would have beside steps etc to stop anyone falling off.

[dinosour]

Personally I would have it painted, powder coating is OK whilst it stays intact, but once it starts to flake off it just keeps coming off. Very hard to repair in situ. At least you can repaint in situ.

[Impression]

Powdercoat will give a much better finish thats harder wearing and because its done in a factory less chance of any rust etc.
It won't last for ever but should last much longer than normal paint and can sill be painted over with normal pain 20 years down the track if needed.

[stevoh741]

powder coat will give a far superior finish than the paint on site option. I wouldnt even consider paint if it were me