If you’re looking to customize your vehicle, a great way to do so is by refinishing the wheels. There are many different wheel refinishing processes out there and it can be tough to decide which one is best for your car.
Here we’ll explore the different types of wheel refinishing processes so that you can make an informed decision about how to give your ride a fresh look. Read on and learn more about everything from powder coating and chrome plating, to painting and anodizing! Let’s get started.
Different Types of Wheel Refinishing Processes
Custom Wheel Painting
Painted and lacquered finishes on paint wheels are a common choice for those looking to customize their ride. This finish is created by first painting the wheel in the color of your choice, then applying a layer of clear lacquer over the top for protection.
The advantage of this type of paint finish is that it can provide excellent protection from damage as well as long-lasting color vibrancy with a visually striking look.
Many people love this finish as it’s affordable but still looks great. Added to that, the wheels will be easy to clean and you can choose whatever color you want. Repairing these wheels is also easy so you don’t need to worry too much about future costs.
Overall, painted and lacquered finishes offer a great option for customizing cars. It gives them an enhanced look that provides years of protection without requiring extreme upkeep or expensive maintenance costs.
Powder Coating Rims
A powder-coated finish on car wheels is a durable and attractive coating. The process involves spraying an electrostatically charged powder onto the wheel and then curing it under heat.
This finish offers superior protection against corrosion and abrasion, making it an ideal solution for areas exposed to moisture and harsh temperatures. However, the powder coating process does require specialized machinery which increases the cost.
In addition, if a wheel is not prepped correctly prior to the application of a powder-coated finish, imperfections can show up in the finished product. Therefore, you want to ensure you’re using a reputable company to refinish your wheels.
While not having as many color options as painted rims, you’ll still have plenty of choices to create a unique look for your car. For long-term durability and a beautiful new look, it’s hard to go wrong with powder-coated rims.
Diamond Cut Wheels
A diamond cut finish is a unique process applied to alloy wheels. During the process, a metal lathe cuts and polishes the surface of the wheel by removing metal. A finish is then applied to ensure its durability.
This process can result in visually enhanced wheels which are sure to turn heads. Also, you can have your wheels painted before they are lathed. This can give an amazing contrast between the existing color and the shiny surface.
There are some drawbacks associated with it. Due to the need to take metal off the wheel, this can only be done a few times before it affects the structural integrity. It can also be more expensive than other options.
There are other ways to machine wheels too, which can then also be treated with a clear coating for durability. Many car enthusiasts love the bright exposed metal on these rims.
Chrome Finish
Chrome plating car wheels allow drivers to add an additional layer of style and customization to their vehicles. Typically, this process requires removing the wheel from the vehicle, before being bathed in a solution of metal salts to prepare it for the chrome plating.
Tiny metal particles are broken down into their component molecules and attached to the wheel surface through electrolysis. The primary benefit of chrome-plated finished wheels is that they are durable and extremely eye-catching.
However, it’s important to note that chrome finishes are expensive. And due to their high shine, any type of corrosion or scuffing easily shows up.
PVD Wheels
PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) finishes on car wheels have become increasingly popular due to their strong and sleek appearance which is similar to chrome, as well as the durability that comes along with it.
The process involves a physical vapour being deposited onto a wheel in a vacuum to form an even yet tough coating, which is then finished with a clear acrylic powder coating.
Here you get increased resistance against color fading and better protection against wear and tear or chips. It’s also significantly lighter than a chrome finish so you get all the benefits without it affecting performance.
Anodized Rims
This process works by passing an electric current through the wheel, resulting in a corrosion-resistant coating that helps protect the wheel from damage. This is aided by the fact the color is never going to chip or peel away.
Anodized finishes have improved durability and resistance to corrosion, as well as an attractive look for the wheel that can be further customized with color choices. This makes them a tempting option for those who live in areas with bad weather.
Which Wheel Refinishing Process Should I Choose?
When evaluating which wheel refinishing process to choose, there are a few aspects that should be taken into account. While pricing is an important factor to consider, ultimately, the quality of the end product is what will probably matter to you most.
The right finish for you will depend on what you are using them for, where you live, the style you desire, how much maintenance you’re prepared to do, and the budget you have.
For example, if you want high performance then you want to avoid chrome wheels, as they are heavy. If you live in a snowy place that has a lot of salty roads, you need to anticipate corrosion being a big problem.
Just consider all those factors and choose the best fit for your circumstances. Whichever you choose, it’s unlikely you’ll regret it, as all these finishes look great in their own way.