Your wheels, finished your way.
When it comes to deciding what finish to add to your wheel, there are so many options out there! As well as different processes. Before you get too overwhelmed, we broke the list down to just the basic finishes! Start here and from there look into similar finishes the finally a color. Have fun with it!
Finishes:
Matte black - This finish is achieved through a process of multiple phases. The first phase starts with a black powder coat then followed by 2 layers of non-gloss clear coat. This process helps provide protection.
Satin - This finish is achieved through a process of multiple phases. The first phase starts with a black powder coat then followed by 2 layers of non-gloss clear coat. This process helps provide the wheel with a satin appearance as well as protection.
Glossy - This finish is achieved through a process of multiple phases. The first phase starts with a black powder coat then followed by 2 layers of non-gloss clear coat. This will provide the wheel with a superior finish and sheen.
Machined - This style is achieved during the manufacturing process by being spun on a computer numeric control lathe. It strips down just a little bit of metal from the surface while smoothing the wheel to better provide a shiny metallic appearance.
Hyper silver/hyper black - This finish is achieved through a process of multiple phases. The first starts with a black powder coat then is followed by a translucent silver, which you will still be able to see the black foundation through. This is what produces the hyper silver color. To finish off the process, 2 layers of clear coat is applied.
Polished - A polished wheel is raw aluminum that has been buffed or polished to a mirror like shine.
Chrome - When taken care of it, this durable finish can stand the test of time. There is a 3 step process to getting this look. The first step would be a layer of copper plating that is adhered to the wheel to create a smooth foundation. The next step would be adding a layer of nickel to provide hardness and durability. Lastly, the final layer is the chrome to create a bright cosmetic finish.
Alloy - Alloy is a mixture of several metals to combine their main qualities (rigidity, malleability, and hardness) so an alloy wheel is a wheel made using an alloy of either aluminum or magnesium. They cost more but offer major advantages like enhancing the overall look as well as improving road performance. Since the material is lighter compared to a steel wheel, the reduced weight on the car assists with fuel economy, braking and acceleration.
Steel - Steel wheels are made with stamped steel and have been around for a while and are tested for toughness and longevity. They're typically found on SUV, off-road vehicles, city cars and HMVs. Their manufacturing process is a cost effective alternative to alloy wheels. They are more malleable than alloy so easier to repair.
Processes:
Powder coating process - This is one of the most popular finishes. A powder coat is electro-statically held to the grounded parts of the wheel. Heat is then applied to flow the powder together and cure it, resulting in a smooth durable finish.
Painted - The process of painting wheels is airbrushing the color on. This process enables the manufacturer to create a variety of color options and styles. Going with this style provides you with options available in many textures including satin, flat, matte or gloss.
- Heather Jarkow