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Can chrome plating be done at home?

wikiHow Staff Editor
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This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

wikiHow Staff Editor

Staff Answer

Yes, but be aware that the chemicals used in chrome plating are hazardous. Take appropriate precautions, like wearing a respirator and eye protection and working in a well-ventilated area.

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Question

How much does it cost to chrome plate?

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wikiHow Staff Editor

Staff Answer

To get it done professionally, you might expect to pay up to $2,000—especially for something large, like a car radiator shell. If you electroplate the item yourself, you’ll need to pay for equipment and chemicals, which can also add up (for example, even a small electroplating machine can cost thousands of dollars). If you use a spray chrome kit, you can expect to pay over $500 for the kit.

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How long does it take to chrome plate?

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wikiHow Staff Editor

Staff Answer

Chrome plating can take up to a day, depending on what kind of finished result you are aiming for. However, a spray-on chrome finish is quicker and easier to apply than chrome electroplating.

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Question

What are the formulas and exact process to chrome plastic pieces?

Community Answer

Plastic pieces are usually chrome plated with special sprays or sprays that imitate a chrome appearance. They are often fairly expensive for a relatively small amount. The plastic is cleaned, then rinsed with distilled water. It is sprayed with an adhesion promoter, and then the chrome solution. Then it is rinsed again with distilled water.

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Question

Where can I find the chemicals and nickel plates?

Community Answer

Usually at your nearby hardware store, such as The Home Depot or ACE. If you still can't find what you're looking for, try online shopping.

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Question

Why does my old car's chromed bumper look better than my new car's chromed bumper?

Community Answer

Fewer additives when chroming the metal in the older car. Manufacturers have found ways to meet the demand by adding materials that will spread the metal without compromising its durability.

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Question

Can I use a chrome plate on aluminum?

Community Answer

Aluminum doesn't particularly plate well with chrome, if at all, as it would most likely dissolve in the plating bath. You can get aluminum polishes that will make aluminum appear as chrome. You can also get aluminum protectant for additional corrosion resistance.

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Question

Do you need a primer to paint wood chrome? I'm painting a guitar body.. It's been painted before, but I don't know what type of paint was used.

Bradley Jones

Community Answer

You could probably get by just scuffing the old and not have to use the primer.

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