Q&A for How to Chrome Plate

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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