If your car or your rims need a paint job, a chrome spray paint may be one of the best options that you can choose from, as these paints tend to be anti-corrosion. They also restore your car back to its original color and shine. These spray paints typically have a mirror-like finish that resembles metal, they’re easy to use, and can usually be used on surfaces other than metal, too.
How to Choose the Best Chrome Spray Paints
With so many products on the market, finding the best chrome spray paint can be quite difficult. Many products will be advertised as being capable of producing a chrome-like finish; however, there are many different types of chrome finish. Some are shinier than others. You’ll also need to take many other factors into consideration when choosing a spray paint. The finish is not the only factor that you should consider.
Ease of Application
First and foremost, you need to consider how easy it is to use chrome spray paint. Most of us aren’t experts and are going to want something that doesn’t require a lot of expertise or specialized equipment. When considering the ease of application, consider whether the paint is quick-drying and whether you need to do any special prep before applying the paint.
Most of these products come in spray cans that allow you to directly spray the product onto your car or car part; however, most of these products also have alternative forms that can be used with spray guns.
Consistency of Spray and Overall Finish
Another thing to consider is the consistency of the spray. Look for paint that goes on smoothly without any hiccups. You also need to consider the finish and whether the paint looks smooth or whether it chips off after several uses.
Color
Last but not least, consider the type of finish that you’ll get. Is the color a beautiful mirror-like finish or is it a reflective, shiny finish? Although those two may sound similar, they look very different. You might want more than just a standard silver chrome look.
Some companies produce chrome spray paints in a wide range of colors, from standard metallic options like brass and gold to more vivid color options like green and red.
To get the best color match, a little experimentation may sometimes be needed. You can also look at reviews online to see whether you can match the colors by eye.
With these factors in mind, let’s get into our picks for the best chrome spray paints for any application.
Top 10 Best Chrome Spray Paints 2021
1.
Best Overall Chrome Spray Paint: Krylon COLORMaxx Spray Paint
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Color: Chrome
- Coverage: 20 square feet
- Dry Time: 10 minutes
- Cure Time: 48 hours
Overview
Regardless of whether you plan on using the chrome spray paint for automotive needs or for arts and crafts projects, this Krylon COLORMaxx Spray Paint will do the job. It can be used on a wide range of surfaces, like plastic, plaster, metal, paper and wood. Best of all, it offers excellent coverage. You can cover 20 square feet with just one can.
Ease of Application
The paint formula contains a primer, so you don’t need to do a lot of prep work in order to get the results that you want. This makes this paint an excellent choice for beginners. It’s super easy to use and work with. Another advantage is that it is super quick-drying. In fact, it’ll dry in just 10 minutes, so you can just spray it on and come back to it after grabbing a coffee or a snack.
Consistency of Spray and Overall Finish
It’s a bit difficult to get a consistent spray because the nozzle doesn’t produce a wide spray like with other paints, like the Krylon Fusion All-in-One Paint. You’ll need to be a bit patient in order to ensure that each layer is applied evenly and smoothly.
The finished texture, however, is great. It’s smooth and offers rust protection, which makes it a great choice for metal surfaces that will be exposed to bad weather.
Overall Finish and Color
This chrome spray paint gives you a nice silver, metallic shine. It even incorporates real metal sprinkles inside the paint to give you that boost of color. However, it only comes in silver, so if you’re looking for other chrome colors, you won’t find it here.
Pros
- Can be used on many materials
- Great coverage
- Paint and primer all-in-one
- Rust-protection
- Quick-drying
Cons
- Comes in only one color
- Difficult to get a consistent spray
2.
Best Budget Chrome Spray Paint: Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch Multi-Purpose Spray Paint
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Color: Chrome aluminum
- Coverage: 12 square feet
- Dry Time: 20 minutes
- Cure Time: 48 hours
Overview
If you’re on a budget, you can’t go wrong with the Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch Multi-Purpose Spray Paint. You can use this paint on both interior and exterior surfaces, like wood, unglazed ceramic, metal and more. It’s also low odor!
One of our main gripes with this product is that you don’t get a lot of coverage. In general, you’ll average about 12 square feet a can. Although this isn’t a lot compared to some other products, like the Krylon COLORMaxx Spray Paint, this is also a fraction of the cost. It’s great for small projects, although some people have been able to use two cans to cover their entire car.
Ease of Application
In terms of application, this is an incredibly easy product to use. The formula contains both the paint and the primer, so you don’t really need to prep the surface. It’s also quick-drying, and will be completely dry within 20 minutes. It’s a great choice for beginners.
Consistency of Spray and Overall Finish
Here’s where we’re running into some problems. This spray paint has a comfortable spray tip and can be sprayed from any angle, so you’ll get a consistent spray every time; however, the consistency of the results can be off depending on the type of material that you’re working with. The finish may not be smooth or even if you’re applying this product on plastic. The paint may bleed a little bit on other materials as well.
Color
As for the color, you’re looking at getting a dull, metallic chrome. It’s not too reflective, unlike the Krylon COLORMaxx Spray Paint, which has real metal flakes inside. This can be off-putting to some people.
Pros
- Affordable
- Paint and primer all-in-one
- Quick-drying
- Comfort spray tip and any angle spray
- Low odor
Cons
- Not a lot of coverage
- Consistency of results can be off
- Not too shiny or reflective
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Color: Universal chrome
- Coverage: 20 square feet
- Dry Time: 30 minutes
- Cure Time: 24 hours
Overview
To match OEM parts, try the Dupli-Color Universal Chrome Perfect Match Automotive Paint. This option provides a lot of coverage, and the color is almost a perfect match—although it’s a bit pricey in comparison to some other alternatives on the market.
Ease of Application
This product is easy to use. You’ll need to prep the surface ahead of time, but the spray paint comes with a 360-degree nozzle and can be sprayed from just about any angle. It’s also quick-drying and quick-curing, so you can apply another layer quickly.
Consistency of Spray and Overall Finish
One of the main issues that you’ll run into with this spray paint is that the spray consistency may be off for larger products because the tip will clog if you allow the paint to dry. In order to prevent the tip from clogging, wipe the tip after every use.
This product is also prone to overspraying, so you’ll want to go a bit overboard with your protective taping in order to protect other areas of your car. If you have the time and want to be able to control the flow of the paint, try something like the Spaz Stix Ultimate Mirror Chrome Airbrush Paint, which can be used with an airbrush.
The last potential problem is that there isn’t enough pressure in the cans, so you won’t be able to get the last bit out.
Color
If you’re looking to match an OEM automotive part, you’ll find just the thing with the color options offered by the Dupli-Color Universal Chrome Perfect Match Automotive Paint. If you’ve got a small scratch on your car, you can easily cover it up with this paint. It’s quite a seamless match.
Pros
- 360-degree nozzle
- Quick-drying
- Matches the color of OEM parts
- Lots of coverage
Cons
- Clogs and oversprays
- Not enough pressure
- Pricey
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Color: Chrome, gold, rose gold, copper, silver
- Coverage: 20 square feet
- Dry Time: 10 minutes
- Cure Time: 24 hours
Overview
The Krylon Premium Metallic Spray can be used on a wide range of surfaces, like wood, metal, plastic, paper mache, glass and other materials. It’s the perfect choice for someone who’s looking for a product that can offer high gloss results.
Since this product isn’t heat-resistant, you’ll want to reserve it for parts that are on the interior of the car. For example, you can use it to repaint parts of the steering wheel or the gear shift to give it that nice, metallic shine again. If you want to paint the exterior of your car, you’ll want to go with a product like Dupli-Color Universal Chrome Perfect Match Automotive Paint.
One can go a long way due to the limited use of this product. One can covers anywhere from 15 to 20 square feet, which will be enough to restore any interior parts.
Ease of Application
This product is quick-drying and fairly easy to apply. Unlike the Krylon COLORMaxx Spray Paint, it doesn’t contain a primer, so you’ll want to prime and prep the surface first. With that said, it’s super quick-drying and will dry within 15 minutes.
Consistency of Spray and Overall Finish
The consistency of the spray is quite smooth. You don’t have to worry about clogging, dripping or bleeding. The surface will look even.
Color
The results are quite glossy; however, you’ll need to apply quite a few coats in order to get those results. If you don’t apply enough coats, the paint will look a bit dull. Another good thing about this product is that it comes in many different colors: gold foil, original chrome, copper brilliance, rose gold, pewter gray, copper foil and silver foil.
Pros
- Works on wood, metal, plastic, paper mache, glass and other materials
- Quick-drying
- High gloss
- Comes in many different colors
Cons
- Requires many coats
- Not ideal to be used outdoors
5.
Best All-in-One Chrome Spray Paint: Krylon Fusion All-in-One Paint
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Color: Metallic chrome
- Coverage: 25 square feet
- Dry Time: 20 minutes
- Cure Time: 48 hours
Overview
If you’re looking to kill two birds with one stone and get a chrome spray paint that works for cars and arts and crafts projects, you can’t go wrong with the Krylon Fusion All-in-One Paint. This paint can be used on metal, wood, PVC, tile, plastic and basically any other surface. It’s a great choice for metal because it’ll protect the surface from rust. It’s also fade-resistant!
Ease of Application
With this type of spray, you don’t necessarily need to prime the surface or even sand it at all. You can apply the paint directly onto the surface. It’s super easy to use. This paint is also super quick-drying, and will dry to the touch in about 20 minutes, so you don’t have to wait to use the final product.
You can spray this product at any angle thanks to its 360-degree spray nozzle. It’s easy to get an even application with ease.
Consistency of Spray and Overall Finish
In order to get a good layer of color, apply two to three coats and let each coat dry thoroughly between applying the next layer. Thanks to its quick-drying properties, you can still get an entire project done within an hour!
Color
If you’re looking for a real chrome finish, this Krylon Fusion All-in-One Paint may not be the best choice. It has more of a metallic sheen to it than a chrome finish. The best paint that offers a reflective, mirror-like finish is the Spaz Stix Mirror Chrome Spray; however, this paint is not reserved for beginners, like this one is.
Pros
- Quick-drying
- Contains a lot of product
- Rust protection
- Bonds to many surfaces
- Fade-resistant
Cons
- Not a real chrome finish
6.
Best Quick-Drying Chrome Spray Paint: Rust-Oleum 1915830 Spray Paint
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Color: Chrome, brass, copper, gold
- Coverage: 12 square feet
- Dry Time: 15 minutes
- Cure Time: 1 hour
Overview
If all you’re looking for is a quick touch up that will recolor a dulled area, you can’t go wrong with the Rust-Oleum 1915830 Spray Paint. This paint can be used on almost all surfaces, from metal to wood to plaster and more. You can use it for more than just automotive purposes. Best of all, it’s super quick-drying, so there really isn’t much prep work that you have to do.
Ease of Application
In comparison to many other products on the market, this is perhaps one of the easiest products to work with. All you have to do is spray it out from the can. You don’t even have to necessarily prep the area—as long as it’s smooth, and the paint will dry within 15 minutes and cure within an hour. That’s all you have to do!
Consistency of Spray and Overall Finish
The consistency is smooth, but this product will flake off in the presence of heat, which is why it’s not recommended for inner engine parts. You’d want a flameproof spray for those areas, as flameproof sprays can tolerate high heat.
Another thing to note is that although the finish is smooth, it is prone to chipping if you handle the area too frequently or if you don’t apply a topcoat over it.
Color
This chrome spray is beautiful. It contains real metal flakes that give it a rich shine. This paint also comes in 5 different colors: brass, copper, silver and two types of gold, so you can add a chrome, metallic shine to just about anything.
Pros
- Quick-drying
- Can be used on wood, metal, plaster and more
- Contains real metal flakes for a rich shine
- Comes in many colors
Cons
- Flakes off in the presence of heat
- Can chip
7.
Best Fireproof Chrome Spray Paint: VHT Flameproof Spray
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Color: Dull chrome
- Coverage: 20 square feet
- Dry Time: 10 minutes
- Cure Time: Does not cure automatically
Overview
The issue with a lot of chrome spray paints is that they are not flameproof, so they can’t be applied in exhaust systems, headers or piston domes; however, if the inner mechanisms and parts are looking a bit dull, you can easily shine it up again using the VHT flameproof spray.
Ease of Application
Although this product is fairly easy to apply, it does need to be cured, so you’ll need to set time aside for this product to work its magic. The paint can be cured on or off the vehicle, so you can paint the parts separately and let them sit.
To cure the paint while it’s in the car, run the engine at idle for about 10 minutes when the paint is dry. Allow the paint to cool for another 20 minutes before running the engine again. If the part is not in the car, you can heat it up in an oven to 250 degrees for 30 minutes before allowing it to cool for another 30 minutes. You’ll then want to gradually increase the heat to 400 and 650 degrees for 30 minutes each with a rest time of 30 minutes in between.
If you don’t need a flameproof product and just want something that’s quick-drying, take a look at the Rust-Oleum 1915830 Spray Paint, as it dries in just 15 minutes.
Consistency of Spray and Overall Finish
This product goes on smoothly and dries smoothly as well. It’s consistent, so you’ll get an even finish and results. The product basically looks like a topcoat, so you won’t get any chipping or flaking.
Although the paint doesn’t cure automatically, you’ll get a nice enamel-like finish that protects whatever is underneath. You will, however, need to carefully cure it to prevent blisters from forming in the future. This paint, in comparison to other alternatives, is incredibly durable and will last years.
Color
This paint gives you a dullish, chrome finish that perfectly blends with most automotive parts.
Pros
- Withstands temperatures up to 2000 degrees Fahrenheit
- Applicable in exhaust systems
- Durable
- Smooth and even application
Cons
- Complicated curing process
8.
Best Chrome Spray Paint for Airbrushing: Spaz Stix Ultimate Mirror Chrome Airbrush Paint
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Color: Chrome
- Coverage: 20 square feet
- Dry Time: 10 minutes
- Cure Time: 48 hours
Overview
If you have airbrushes handy, you can use this Spaz Stix Ultimate Mirror Chrome Airbrush Paint with a spray gun to get a chrome-like finish. You’ll need specialized tools, and also a well-ventilated area in order to even consider using this product. You’ll also need some experience in working with airbrushes. Although this product comes in a very small can, a little goes a very long way.
Ease of Application
First and foremost, this is not an easy product to work with. It’s mostly recommended for experts who want to get as close to a mirror-like shine as possible. Although the product doesn’t take too long to try, you’ll have to do a lot of prep work.
The key to getting the mirror-like chrome finish with this paint is to use a gloss black primer underneath before painting the chrome paint on top. Also, let the chrome paint cure for at least 1 to 2 days. After 1 to 2 days, the chrome paint looks a lot glossier. Rub the surface with a soft cloth to enhance the mirror-like finish.
This product is not easy to apply in the slightest. If you’re looking for a fun and easy project to tackle over the weekends, you’ll have much better luck with something like the Krylon COLORMaxx Spray Paint, which doesn’t require any guesswork.
Consistency of Spray and Overall Finish
Because of the airbrush, you’ll get a very consistent and even spray with no clogging or dripping at all. The finished result is smooth and even, and essentially looks like the work of a professional.
Color
If you prep the surface right and use the right ratio, you’ll get a finish that is very close to a mirror-like finish. However, this does take some experimenting and trial and error, so this type of paint is mostly reserved for more experienced users. It’s a lot to tackle if you’re just a beginner.
Pros
- Less waste, lots of coverage
- Can achieve mirror-like shine
- Smooth, even finish
Cons
- Not easy to apply
- Requires special equipment
9.
Most Durable Chrome Spray Paint: Seymour Hi-Tech Engine Spray Paint
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Color: Chrome, gold
- Coverage: 15 square feet
- Dry Time: 10 minutes
- Cure Time: 48 hours
Overview
This formula is super durable under a variety of conditions, and can be used to restore the original factory color to engines, transmissions and other OEM parts. It’s chemical-resistant, gas-resistant and heat-resistant up to 300 degrees Fahrenheit, but it’s not scratch-resistant. It’s also VOC compliant.
The chrome aluminum is going to give you the most chrome-like finish; however, the colored options also have that nice reflective shine. To enhance the shine, however, you’ll need to apply a topcoat over the spray paint.
Ease of Application
After prepping the surface, the paint is rather easy to apply. You don’t have to do any extra work; however, you’ll notice that it does take some time to dry, so you’ll need to take your time before applying another layer.
Consistency of Spray and Overall Finish
One can of this spray paint goes a long way, and the paint comes out very evenly. You don’t need steady hands to apply this product. The finish is quite smooth, so you’ll get that metal finish that you want regardless of what color you choose.
Color
Although you’ll get a chrome-like finish regardless of the type of color that you choose, you won’t get a high-gloss, mirror-like finish unless you apply a clear gloss on top. The colors, however, are vibrant, bold and beautiful. If you’re not going for vibrant, and just want a mirror-like aluminum finish, you’ll be better off with the Spaz Stix.
Pros
- Super durable
- Heat resistant up to 300 degrees
- Chemical and gas-resistant
- VOC compliant
Cons
- Not scratch-resistant
- Not quick-drying
10.
Best Mirror-Finish Chrome Spray Paint: Spaz Stix Mirror Chrome Spray
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Color: Chrome
- Coverage: 15 square feet
- Dry Time: 15 minutes
- Cure Time: 72 hours
Overview
This acrylic-based formula offers a beautiful mirror-like finish and is quite durable. The application, however, is kind of difficult, so this spray paint should be reserved for more experienced users.
Ease of Application
This is probably one of the most difficult products to apply on our list. It’s quick-drying, but the issue is that you need to apply the Spaz Stix Black Backer underneath to achieve the desired look. Without it, you won’t get that mirror-like finish you’re looking for.
On top of that, you’ll also need to seal the spray paint with a clear coat. It’s important that you work out a good ratio because applying too much product will cause it to dull or bleed. We highly recommend practicing on a scrap part first until you get the hang of it.
To increase your chances of success, apply several layers of this paint and then buff it out with a cotton cloth. This is definitely not for beginners. Those who don’t have a lot of patience should go with a product that’s easier to work with like Dupli-Color Universal Chrome Perfect Match Automotive Paint.
Consistency of Spray and Overall Finish
This product sprays rather consistently although it can bleed, and can be difficult to apply if you don’t know how to do it. The spray goes on evenly though, and the finish is smooth thanks to the acrylic-enamel based formula. It’s really durable, and you can easily apply several layers at a time.
Color
If applied properly, this chrome spray paint has an absolutely beautiful mirror-like finish that surpasses all other products on the market. However, it only comes in one color — a beautiful silver mirror-like finish. With that said, this is one of those paints that you can easily incorporate into other projects.
Pros
- Beautiful mirror-like finish
- Acrylic-enamel based formula
- Long-lasting
- Quick-drying
Cons
- Difficult to apply
- Comes in only one color
- Expensive
A Complete Guide to Chrome Spray Paints
Touching up the chrome on your car, motorcycle or truck by yourself becomes really easy and affordable with chrome spray paint. All you really have to do is make sure that you prepare the surface properly, and with the right paint, you’ll get the seamless finish and results that you’re looking for without breaking the bank.
In some cases, you can even use the leftover paint for other DIY projects around the home, like touching up the faucets or repainting some fixtures.
Choosing the Right Chrome
Other than the factors mentioned above, you should also take other factors into consideration when buying chrome spray paint.
Colors
Although marketed as being chrome, different chrome spray paints have different types of finishes. Some will have a more enhanced mirror-like finish than others. Others will have a duller color and some others will be shinier. It’s important to consider the finished color with what you’re trying to spray. Try to match the colors as close as possible.
Coverable Area
To get the best bang for your buck, you need to see how much area one can of paint can cover. This will depend on the spray nozzle, the consistency of the paint, as well as the color of the paint. You’ll need several layers to get a bold color with more translucent paints.
Brand
Another thing to consider is the reputation of the brand. Some brands, like Krylon have been around for decades and have gained the trust of many consumers. VHT, on the other hand, is actually a division under Dupli-Color and has been around for over a century!
How to Properly Apply Chrome Spray Paints
Many people choose chrome spray paint because of how easy it is to use. The results also look amazing, and you can get a professional paint job done without having to spend the big bucks.
To get an even application and professional results, you first need to make sure that you are painting in an ideal environment. The temperature should be between 70 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit and the humidity should be less than 50%. If the conditions aren’t ideal, the paint will be more likely to bleed or blister.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Prep the Surface
Before you spray any paint onto your car or any car parts, make sure you prep and prime the surface. You want to get rid of any dirt, dust or contaminants that may cling onto the surface of the metal, as these particles will prevent the paint from adhering properly.
Start by removing as much dirt and dust as possible with a towel soaked in denatured alcohol. The reason that you want to use denatured alcohol is because it evaporates quickly and won’t affect the metal. It will, however, clean and sanitize it with ease. You should see the dirt melt off the metal parts. Next, wash the area with a solution made of detergent and hot water.
You can also wet sand the surface if you notice that there are any unsightly bumps before polishing it. You want to get as smooth of a surface as possible, so that the paint adheres easily and properly to the bare metal.
Prime, Spray and Protect
Once you have properly prepped the area, apply a primer. This is a critical step that shouldn’t be skipped.
A primer will seal the surface of the metal to prevent the paint from soaking through. It’ll also create a smooth surface, so you’ll need fewer coats of paint. The smooth surface also helps hide joints and seams. If you’re using chrome paint, use a black primer to get a bright, reflective finish.
Once you’ve primed the area, you can spray on the chrome paint by following the instructions on the can. Hold the can about 10 inches away from the surface of the metal and spray downwards to prevent droplets of paint from forming. Wipe down the surface with a clean and dry microfiber towel before applying another layer of paint. You may need to apply several layers to get the results you’re looking for.
Finally, seal everything in with a clear coat overtop. Make sure that the surface is clean and dry before applying the topcoat or else you might get water spots that are infused into the paint.
Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
In general, chrome spray paint is so popular because it’s something that most DIYers can use without any special equipment or tools. It protects the metal surfaces and brings them back to life while containing fewer toxins than getting the parts electroplated. Most spray paints are water-based and not as toxic.
Even so, you’ll want to protect yourself and avoid inhaling any of the fumes, as they can irritate your lungs and trigger asthma attacks or allergic reactions. When you spray the paint, the airborne particles go everywhere! It’s simply unavoidable. When using chrome spray paint, make sure that you have the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
- Rubber gloves to protect your hands
- A full protective suit with long sleeves to prevent any contact with your skin
- A respirator mask that filters out the gases and chemicals
- Goggles to protect your eyes
- A first aid kit handy nearby
You also want to apply the chrome spray in a well-ventilated area. You should also avoid drinking, smoking or eating where you are spray painting. Do not store food and other items in the same area where you plan on painting. And, last but not least, keep children and pets away.
Final Thoughts
No matter what product you choose from our list, you’re getting great value. Chrome spray paints are fairly inexpensive and are really easy to use. They’re a great option for DIYers. You can try to repaint your own car to give it a beautiful shine, and you can even use leftover paint for fun arts and crafts projects!
Source: Tools - autoquarterly.com
