Cerakote: The Ultimate Solution for Heat-Exposed Parts

Mike Sanders
Jul 3
3 min read

Updated: 1 hour ago

At Annie’s Custom Coatings, we love pushing the limits of what coatings can handle. While powder coating is our bread and butter for most projects, some parts — especially those exposed to extreme heat — need something more robust. That’s where Cerakote steps in.

What Is Cerakote?

Cerakote is a thin-film ceramic-based coating that delivers exceptional thermal resistance, chemical resistance, and durability. Originally developed for firearms, Cerakote has found its way into the automotive world, protecting some of the toughest, hottest, and most punishing environments your vehicle can dish out.

Why Choose Cerakote Over Powder Coating?

While powder coating is fantastic for most automotive and industrial parts, it typically breaks down under temperatures above 500°F. That’s bad news for components like:

Exhaust headers
Turbo housings
Downpipes
Manifolds
Other hot-side engine parts

Cerakote, on the other hand, can handle sustained temperatures well above 1,000°F, making it the go-to solution for performance enthusiasts and racers who want parts that look sharp and hold up under heat stress.

What Makes Cerakote So Special?

Thin, lightweight application — no bulky coating buildup

Unmatched thermal stability

Superior corrosion and chemical resistance

Professional, sleek appearance

Extends part life and performance

In other words, Cerakote doesn’t just survive the heat — it thrives in it.

Our Specialty: Hot-Side Protection

At Annie’s Custom Coatings, we specialize in applying Cerakote to high-temperature automotive components. Our process ensures:

Precision application
Uniform coverage
Beautiful, durable finishes

If you’re running a performance vehicle, a turbo build, or simply want to protect and preserve your investment, Cerakote is worth every penny.

Ready to Upgrade?

If you’re tired of burned-up paint or scorched powder on your headers and exhaust, let’s talk. We’ll walk you through the Cerakote process and help you choose the right coating to keep your build looking fresh and performing its best.

Understanding the Cerakote Series: Which One Is Right for Your Project?

Cerakote offers multiple series, each engineered for specific needs. Here’s a quick guide:

Cerakote H-Series

Most popular automotive choice

Thin-film, oven-cured ceramic coating

Excellent abrasion, chemical, and corrosion resistance

Withstands temps up to ~500°F

Wide range of colors and finishes

Ideal for firearms, wheels, engine parts (except extreme hot-side)

Cerakote C-Series

Air-cured, high-temperature ceramic coating

Can handle sustained temps up to 1,800°F

Perfect for exhaust headers, turbo housings, downpipes

Thin, heat-dissipating finish

Limited colors, but highly heat-stable

Cerakote Elite Series

Next-generation ceramic coating

Even thinner than H-Series (around 0.001”)

Increased hardness, lubricity, and corrosion protection

Available in select colors

Typically used on firearms, knives, and applications demanding ultra-thin coating

Cerakote V-Series

Designed for ultra-high-temp environments

Formulated for aerospace and turbine parts

Handles temps exceeding 1,800°F

Primarily technical, industrial-grade use

So Which One Should You Choose?

Headers, turbo parts, manifolds — go with C-Series or V-Series

Valve covers, wheels, suspension parts — H-Series is the sweet spot

Firearms, knives, or precision tools — Elite Series for a refined, thin, tough finish

(we are not applying firearms at this time)

Pro Tip: Our team at Annie’s Custom Coatings is happy to help you pick the right Cerakote series for your project. We’ll make sure your parts are protected and looking incredible, no matter how extreme the conditions.

For color selection, visit https://www.cerakote.com/shop/cerakote-coating

What’s Next? Stay Tuned for a 2025 SEMA Build!

We’re not stopping here. For 2025, we’re working on a show-stopping SEMA build that will feature an extensive list of parts coated with both Cerakote and Prismatic Powders from our shop. From high-temp headers to flawless custom powder-coated details, this project will showcase the full range of what Annie’s Custom Coatings can deliver.

Follow along for sneak peeks, progress updates, and the final reveal — you won’t want to miss it!

Ford Falcon SEMA Build: https://www.instagram.com/dillon.houck

Shop: Annies Custom Coatings

Certified Cerakote Applicator: JR Robbins