Can dishwasher racks be recoated?

Yes, it is possible to recoat dishwasher racks. Over time, dishwasher racks can become worn, rusted, or scratched. This damage is often purely cosmetic, but it can also lead to more extensive corrosion and impact the lifespan of the racks. Recoating the racks is an effective way to restore them to like-new condition.

There are a few different options for recoating dishwasher racks. The most common are powder coating, plastic dip coating, or paint. Each has its own advantages and works well for resurfacing dish racks. With proper surface preparation and application, a recoated dish rack can look and function like new again.

What causes dishwasher racks to become damaged over time?

Dishwasher racks face a tough environment and normal wear and tear over years of use. Here are some of the most common causes of rack damage:

• Corrosion from moisture – Dishwashers are wet environments. Water, steam, and moisture can cause metal racks to corrode and rust over time.
• Impact from dishes – Plates, pots, utensils, etc. bumping against the racks during the wash cycle can scratch, chip, and dent the racks.
• Chemical exposure – Detergents and rinse agents used in dishwashers can be harsh on rack materials, leading to etching, corrosion, and discoloration.
• High heat – The high heat of dishwasher cycles takes a toll on plastic components like nylon coated racks, causing cracking and peeling.
• Mineral deposits – Hard water can leave behind mineral deposits that eat away at metal and plastic parts.

With prolonged use under these conditions, it’s inevitable that dishwasher racks will show cosmetic and functional damage over time.

When should you consider recoating your dishwasher racks?

Here are some signs that your dishwasher racks could benefit from a recoat:

• Visibly worn, faded plastic coatings
• Rust spots or corrosion on metal racks
• Peeling or cracked plastic parts
• Scratches, dents, or tarnish on stainless steel racks
• Corrosion around welded joints
• Difficulty sliding racks in and out smoothly
• Snapped or broken rollers or adjuster caps

If your racks show this type of visible damage but are still structurally sound, recoating is a great option. For racks that are misshapen, warped, or have broken parts, replacement may be better than recoating.

What are the benefits of recoating dishwasher racks?

Here are some of the main benefits of restoring your racks with a new coating:

• Improved appearance – Recoating will cover up unsightly scratches, stains, and visible wear and tear.
• Protection from corrosion – Coatings add a protective barrier against moisture and chemicals that cause corrosion.
• Smoother gliding – Replacing worn plastic glides or coating rack wires restores smooth operation.
• Extended lifespan – Preventing further damage through recoating allows racks to last longer.
• Cost savings – At around $150-300 for DIY powder coating, it’s very affordable compared to $500+ for full rack replacement.

Recoating restores the appearance and function of worn racks at a fraction of the cost of new racks. It allows you to keep the original rack size and configuration instead of adapting to a new rack design.

Powder coating

Powder coating is the most heavy duty option for recoating dishwasher racks. Powder coating involves applying a powdered polymer coating electrostatically, then curing it in an oven to form a hard, durable finish.

Here is an overview of powder coating for dishwasher racks:

• Best for metal racks like stainless steel or coated metal.
• Very durable thick plastic-like coating.
• Wide range of color options.
• Excellent corrosion resistance.
• Withstands high temperatures well.
• More time consuming surface preparation required.
• Needs to be done by a professional shop or requires an investment in equipment.

Powder coating provides the most complete restoration for worn metal racks. Proper surface preparation is key – the rack must be thoroughly cleaned and sandblasted first to achieve good adhesion. The end result is an extremely durable and attractive coating.

Plastic dip coating

Plastic dip coating involves submerging the rack in liquid plastic that dries to form a protective coating. Key traits:

• Best for metal and plastic racks.
• Good corrosion resistance.
• Range of color options.
• DIY friendly.
• Multiple coats can be applied for thicker coverage.
• Finish not quite as durable as powder coating.
• Surface preparation is easier than powder coating.

Plastic dip coatings like Plasti Dip provide good protection against wear for both metal and plastic racks. Built up in multiple layers, they can hide scratches and other damage well. The rubberized finish helps racks slide smoothly.

Spray paint

Spray paint is the easiest DIY recoating option. Key attributes include:

• Very easy, quick DIY application.
• Inexpensive.
• Good for small touches up.
• Doesn’t last as long as powder coating or plastic dip.
• Chips and scratches easier.
• Best for plastic racks or small metal repairs.

While less durable than other methods, spray paint is a quick and accessible recoating option. It works best for plastic racks or minor metal repairs. Proper prep and using a bonding primer will help the paint adhere better and last longer.

How to recoat a dishwasher rack

Here are the basic steps to follow for recoating a dishwasher rack:

1. Remove rack – Pull the rack out from the dishwasher to work on it separately.
2. Clean and degrease – Use soap and water or a degreaser to thoroughly clean the rack first.
3. Sand and prep surface – For metal, lightly sand to roughen the surface. For plastic, lightly scuff.
4. Spray or coat – Apply plastic dip, powder coating, or spray painted coats as directed.
5. Cure and dry – Allow coatings to fully dry and cure according to product instructions.
6. Replace rack – Slide the restored rack back into the dishwasher.

Be sure to follow all label safety precautions when working with chemical coating products. Do this project in a well ventilated area. Taking time to properly clean and prepare the surface will help the new coating adhere strongly.

Removing old coatings

If the existing coating is heavily damaged, it may need to be removed prior to recoating. Here are some ways to remove old dishwasher rack coatings:

• Chemical paint strippers – Coating removers are effective but use caution regarding fumes and skin exposure.
• Media blasting – Soda blasting or sand blasting removes coatings but requires special tools.
• Grinding or sanding – Use an angle grinder or sander to grind old coatings down.
• Oven cleaner – The lye in oven cleaner helps break down some coating types.

Test a small area first to see how well the old coating comes off. Thicker and harder coatings like powder coating are more difficult to remove. Removing old paint or plastic dip is easier than heavier coatings.

Tips for getting a smooth, long-lasting finish

Follow these tips for a professional looking, durable recoated rack:

• Remove loose paint or coatings completely before recoating.
• Roughen smooth surfaces with 220 grit sandpaper.
• Use a bonding primer for better topcoat adhesion.
• Keep light coats of spray paint wet by overlapping strokes.
• Allow proper curing time for coatings to fully harden.
• Mask off any rubber bumpers, chrome, or plastic parts you don’t want coated.
• Hang or position the rack for easy access to all areas while coating.

Taking the time to do high quality surface prep leads to better looking, longer lasting results. Test spray in an inconspicuous area first to ensure good compatibility and adhesion.

How much does it cost to recoat dishwasher racks?

The cost to recoat dishwasher racks can range quite a bit based on the method used:

• DIY plastic dip coating – Approximately $20-40 for rattle cans of plastic dip coating.
• DIY spray paint – Around $15-30 for rattle cans of spray paint and primer.
• Professional plastic dip coating – $75-200 to have racks media blasted and dip coated.
• DIY powder coating – $150-300 for a basic powder coating equipment setup and supplies.
• Professional powder coating – $200-400 for media blasting, powder coating, and curing racks.

DIY plastic dip and spray paint provide the most budget friendly options, while professional powder coating yields the most durable finish.

How durable and long-lasting are recoated racks?

The durability and lifespan of a recoated dishwasher rack depends on:

• Quality of surface preparation – Better adhesion when the surface is thoroughly cleaned and roughened.
• Recoating method used – Powder coating and thick plastic dip last longer than spray paint.
• Dishwasher rack material – More recoats needed for corrosion prone metals vs stainless steel or plastics.
• Dishwasher detergent used – Corrosive or acidic detergents can wear down coatings faster.
• Care in handling – Chipping and scratches likely shorten recoating lifespan.

Overall, recoated racks last for years with proper prep and application. Powder coated racks can last 5-10 years if well maintained. Plastic dipped or painted racks may start to show wear after 2-5 years. With periodic touch ups, recoated racks can last almost as long as brand new replacements.

Common questions

Here are answers to some common questions about recoating dishwasher racks:

Does recoating work on all types of racks?

Yes, recoating can improve stainless steel racks, plastic coated wire racks, nylon coated racks, and ABS plastic racks. The type of coating method may differ based on the rack material.

Can you recoat just part of a rack?

Yes, if only part of the rack is damaged, you can recoat just the affected portion without having to do the entire rack.

Do you need to remove a dishwasher rack to recoat it?

For the best results, the rack should be removed from the dishwasher fully to allow for proper cleaning, surface preparation, and application of the coating.

How long does it take for recoated racks to cure?

Curing times vary by coating type, from 1-2 hours for spray paint up to 48 hours for some plastic dips and professional powder coating.

Can recoating damage my dishwasher?

As long as you allow the coating to fully cure as directed before reinstalling the rack, recoating will not harm the dishwasher. Avoid getting coating overspray inside the dishwasher tub.

Conclusion

Recoating worn dishwasher racks is an inexpensive and effective way to restore them to like-new condition. Powder coating, plastic dip, and spray paint all provide good options depending on your needs. With proper prep work and application, recoated racks can last for years before needing touch ups. Recoating racks costs a fraction of full replacements and allows you to extend the life of your existing dishwasher.