Following on from the 4x4 Expo last week one of the most common questions that came up about STEEL-IT was “How does it compare to Cerakote?”.
In this article we aim to show you the Advantages and Disadvantages of each product, and which product is more suited to which application.
Feature | STEEL-IT | Cerakote |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Stainless steel-infused polyurethane or epoxy coating | Ceramic-based thin-film coating |
| Primary Use | Corrosion & abrasion resistance for metal surfaces | High-temperature resistance, wear protection, and aesthetics |
| Corrosion Resistance | 🏆 Excellent – 316L stainless steel particles create a protective barrier | Good, but depends on the specific Cerakote formula used |
| Abrasion Resistance | High – Tough and flexible, resists chipping | Very high – Extremely hard, but can chip under impact |
| Impact Resistance | High – Tough, doesn’t crack easily | Moderate – Hard surface but can crack under sharp impacts |
| Chemical Resistance | Good – Resists most chemicals & solvents | 🏆 Excellent – Highly resistant to chemicals, solvents, and fuels |
| Temperature Resistance | Up to 204°C (400°F) | 🏆 Superior – Some versions withstand 980°C (1800°F) |
| Application Method | Spray-on or roll-on, requires proper surface prep | Spray-on, requires baking for optimal durability |
| Curing Time | Air-dries in 24 hours, full cure in 5-7 days | Requires baking (1-2 hours), full cure in ~5 days |
| Finish & Aesthetic | Steel Gray, Charcoal and Black | 🏆 Wide variety – Matte, gloss, metallic, camo, custom graphics |
| Re-coating & Repairs | Easy – Can be reapplied or touched up | Difficult – Needs full refinishing for proper adhesion |
| Substrate Compatibility | 🏆 Best for steel & aluminium, works on some plastics | Works on steel, aluminium, plastics, and even wood |
| Durability in Off-Road Use | 🏆 Excellent for extreme environments, resists mud, rocks, & water | Very durable but may chip from rock strikes |
| Cost | Moderate | Higher (due to prep & curing process) |
| Ease of DIY Application | 🏆 Easier – Can be applied with basic equipment | Requires professional-grade equipment & heat curing |
Pros & Cons of Each
STEEL-IT
✅ Pros:
- Exceptional corrosion resistance, even when scratched
- Flexible & impact-resistant – won’t crack under stress
- Easier to apply & touch up compared to Cerakote
- Great for off-road applications – resists rock chips, water, and mud
- Approved for food-contact surfaces (important for some industries)
❌ Cons:
- Limited colour options – Steel Gray, Charcoal and Black
- Slightly lower temperature resistance compared to Cerakote
- Not as hard as Cerakote – but this also makes it less brittle
Cerakote
✅ Pros:
- Extremely hard – resists wear, scratches, and chemicals
- Handles high temperatures – great for exhausts and firearm parts
- Huge range of colours & finishes for custom aesthetics
- Works on metals, plastics, wood, and composites
❌ Cons:
- Hard but brittle – can crack or chip under sharp impacts
- Difficult to recoat or repair – requires full refinishing
- More complex application – needs professional equipment & heat curing
- Corrosion protection varies – some formulas aren’t as resistant as STEEL-IT
Which is Better for What?
Best Uses for STEEL-IT
✔ Off-road vehicles & race cars – Withstands mud, water, and rock chips
✔Chassis, suspension, and roll cages – Tough and flexible, won’t crack
✔Marine & industrial applications – Excellent corrosion resistance
✔Motorsport components – Long-lasting in extreme conditions
✔Food-processing equipment – FDA-approved for food contact
Best Uses for Cerakote
✔ Firearms & weaponry – Extremely wear-resistant, withstands heat & chemicals
✔Exhaust systems & engine parts – High-temp versions handle extreme heat
✔Custom motorcycle & car parts – Wide range of finishes & colours
✔Knives & tools – Hard-wearing, resists corrosion & scratches
✔Electronic & tactical gear – Durable and chemical-resistant
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Use?
- If you need superior corrosion protection, durability in rough conditions, and easy touch-ups → STEEL-IT is the winner.
- If you need extreme heat resistance, custom aesthetics, and ultra-hard wear protection → Cerakote is better.
For off-road racing and vehicle chassis, STEEL-IT is the clear choice due to its impact resistance and flexibility. If you need high-temp coating for an exhaust or a gun finish, Cerakote is the better pick.