There are a host of benefits in utilizing powder coating over other coating options. The coating is up to five times more durable than paint due to it being deposited in one homogeneous, crosslinked polymer layer as opposed to the multiple layers in wet painting. Transfer efficiency, the measure of how much coating is deposited on the substrate, is significantly improved over wet paint thereby creating less waste and better economics. Powder Coating is considered a Green Technology and when used in construction projects, it qualifies for LEED tax credits. There are no disposal concerns with waste since the powder is inert. Solvent based paint, by its definition, is hazardous so proper care and documentation when disposing is a must. Various types of topcoats (epoxy, polyurethane, polyester, hybrid) and primers (zinc rich, thin film, epoxy) exist to design the best system to deliver the desired performance characteristics.
| Concern | Solvent Base Painting | Powder Coating |
| Volatile Organic Compounds | YES | NO |
| Hazardous Air Pollutants | YES | NO |
| Flammability | NEMA Class 1 | Only in High Concentrations |
| Insurance Costs / Risks | Significant | Moderate |
| Overspray | Hazardous | Can be recycled or land filled |
| Film Thickness | Thin | Moderate to Thick |
| Worker Exposure | Extensive | Moderate |