Are your bumpers looking old and worn out? Don’t worry! Chrome spray paint can help save those few extra bucks you might have had to shell out for getting them replaced.
Car bumpers play an important role in minimizing the damages that result from collision; however, they are prone to scratches and getting worn out. Nevertheless, you can prevent your bumper from losing its gloss by using chrome spray paints.
These are specially formulated paints that give car bumpers, tire rims, and other automotive parts a chrome finish. They help restore the shine and glossiness of an object without having to spend a lot. However, if you are planning to apply chrome paint by yourself, then you will need to follow a few guidelines to achieve the best results.
Therefore, we have put together this article to guide you through the chrome paint application process. So, without any delay, let’s proceed to the next sections!
How To Apply Chrome Spray Paints On Your Chrome Bumper?
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For most beginners, chrome spray paints may seem intimidating as they require a few techniques and skills to use. However, you can still paint your chrome bumpers if you follow the correct steps and guidelines. Keeping this in mind, we have listed a few guidelines to enhance the overall look of your chrome bumper.
Step 1: Wash Your Chrome Bumper Thoroughly
Before applying any chrome spray paint or primer, you need to clean the chrome bumper since it collects dust, fingerprints, and grease over time. Use water and soap for this.
Additionally, you can use a grease or wax remover to get rid of any stains from the bumper. This step is essential since the impurities will affect the adhesion of the chrome paint later on.
Step 2: Use A Sander
Next, you will need to sand the entire bumper to get an even and smooth surface. On that note, we recommend using a coarser sandpaper if you notice any cracks, peeling, or flaking on the chrome surface.
Make sure to sand the chrome surface until there are no shiny spots visible. You can use a dual-action sander that removes any form of flaking and peels while providing an even finish to the chrome surface.
Step 3: Apply A layer Of Self-Etching Primer
After you have wiped the bumper with a wax and grease remover, you should spray the entire chrome bumper with a self-etching primer coat. This primer works well on all types of metal, and it allows the paint and later coats of primers to stick easily without any hassle.
Step 4: Apply Regular Automotive Primer
As soon as the self-etching primer has dried completely, spray two coats of the regular automotive primer. Just make sure to let the first layer dry before applying the second coat of regular automotive primer.
Step 5: Sand The Primed Surfaces
After applying the primer, you will need to sand the primed surface without reaching the chrome underneath. Gently sand the primed surface with an 800-grit sandpaper. If you accidentally reach the chrome underneath, then you will need to restart the process by applying the regular primer and then re-sanding it.
Just make sure that the chrome bumper has dried completely before sanding the surface.
Step 6: Paint Chrome Bumpers
The last step would require you to start painting the chrome bumper with chrome spray paint.
If you ask us, chrome paint is one of the best spray paints for rims and car bumpers. But to achieve the best results, we highly recommend applying four coats of the chrome paint. Also, let each coat dry completely before applying another layer.
This will not only restore the shine of your chrome bumper but also provide an extra layer of protection against rust particles and other contaminants. As such, the painted bumper will last you for a long time. So, you won’t need to spend extra money getting the chrome bumper repaired by a professional.
Chrome Paint For Bumpers Frequently Asked Questions ?
Do You Need To Wear Protective Gear While Using Chrome Paint Bumpers?
Yes! Chrome spray paints usually contain solvents, such as ammonia, toluene, and xylene. And inhaling such gasses can cause severe inflammation and respiratory problems. In fact, some chrome spray paints release harmful fumes during application, which can cause severe irritation.
Hence, we highly recommend wearing a respirator and a pair of safety gloves while working with chrome spray paints.
Do Chrome Paints Turn Yellow Over Time?
Normally, chrome paints do have a tendency to turn yellow over time but the process is quite slow and you wouldn’t have to worry about it immediately. However, most brands these days have formulated their chrome paints to last longer without turning yellow.
By spending some time on research, you will definitely find the right paint to suit your needs in the long-run.
Can You Use Chrome Paint On Plastic Parts?
In general, you can use chrome paint on plastic surfaces as long as its formulation shows compatibility with the material. Some plastic materials, such as polyethylene and polypropylene, don’t work well with chrome paint since the surface doesn’t give it the required adhesion.
You can test the compatibility of the paint with the plastic by spraying it over a small surface.
Why Do My Freshly Painted Chrome Bumpers Look Hazy?
Extremely humid conditions and hot surfaces can affect the overall look of your chrome bumpers. Always make sure to avoid painting directly under the sunlight since the heat will affect the glossiness of the paint.
Apart from this, try to spray your car bumper in a cool room that doesn’t have too much moisture. Nowadays, most brands provide detailed instructions on how to apply their chrome paints. So, you should follow those instructions.
Chrome Paint For Bumpers Final Words
With that, we have come to the end of our comprehensive article on chrome paint for bumpers and how to use them. Before departing, we would like to share a few tips to prolong the longevity of your chrome-painted bumper.
Firstly, you should always make sure to clean the bumper’s surface before applying a coat of chrome paint since impurities can hamper the adhesion of the paint. Secondly, if your bumper has small holes on its surface, use a tube of liquid steel to seal them before applying any primer.
That said, we’ve got to go now. See you next time!
