Engineering-Driven Solutions for Complex Parts and Precision Results

When it comes to metal finishing, one of the most overlooked—but most important—steps in the process is masking. At Giering Metal Finishing, we work with customers across a wide range of industries who often require precise coating exclusions. Whether it’s for functional contact points, threaded holes, or aesthetic details, masking ensures that certain surfaces remain untouched by paint, powder, or electrocoating.

But here’s the truth: masking isn’t simple—and it’s not something every finisher wants to deal with. Why? Because it’s time-consuming, labor-intensive, and, if done incorrectly, can lead to coating failure or rework. That’s where we come in.

What Is Masking in Metal Finishing?

Our Approach: Engineering Meets Execution

Our process begins with understanding the part geometry and the requirements of the project. From there, we tailor a masking strategy based on factors like part complexity, coating type, and volume.

For low-volume projects, we typically use:

• High-temperature masking tape – Designed to withstand the curing oven and maintain a tight seal throughout the process.
• Plugs and caps – Used to mask holes or studs, similar to using a cork in a wine bottle or a cap on a pen. These are simple, effective solutions that work well for small or straightforward parts.

For high-volume or complex parts, we take it a step further:

• We engineer mechanical masks—custom fixtures or molded components that precisely fit the part’s geometry.
• We partner with machine shops and fabrication suppliers to create reusable, high-temp tooling that saves time and improves consistency.
• We design solutions that match the shape of the part, blocking finish from critical areas while allowing for quick application and removal.
  

The Challenge with Electrocoating (E-Coat) Masking

While masking is challenging in any finishing process, it’s particularly demanding in electrocoating—an immersion-based process where the entire part is submerged in a coating bath. Think of it like trying to keep your hair dry in a bathtub with only a shower cap—it’s tricky.

Electrocoating doesn’t just spray the surface; it flows into every crevice, making traditional masking materials less effective. That’s why our team focuses on engineering tight, precise seals and often uses custom mechanical masks to prevent coating from entering protected areas.



But here’s the good news: We’ve mastered it.

Why Other Finishers Avoid Masking—and Why We Don’t

Many finishers avoid masking altogether. It’s labor-intensive, high-risk, and often requires a level of precision and engineering that exceeds basic finishing services. At Giering, we’ve invested in both our people and our systems to manage this complexity with confidence.



We view masking not as a burden, but as a critical part of delivering a high-quality finish. It’s just another example of how we go beyond basic finishing and into engineered solutions for our customers.

Looking for a Partner Who Can Handle Complex Masking?

If your project requires precision masking, whether for powder coating, painting, or electrocoating, Giering Metal Finishing has the experience and capability to do it right. With over 70 years of metal finishing expertise, we combine engineering insight with hands-on execution to deliver clean, reliable results—every time.

Contact us to learn more about how we can support your next project.