Is the chrome real chrome or powdercoated? I have some 3 piece wheels I would like to eventually have the outer lips redone as some of the chrome isnt in the best of shape. What would it run to have that done?
Unfortunately we cannot PVD 3 piece wheels. They must be a a 1 piece. sorry. Here is an explanation on what PVD is,
A Breakdown of PVD vs. Chrome
First, PVD chrome wheels are up 2-3 lbs lighter than their chrome counterparts. This is because the actual media used to coat the wheels weighs far less than traditional chrome plating. Because PVD doesn’t add extra weight to your wheels, this helps decrease rotating mass. This reduction in weight is always good to boost your ability to get up and go!
PVD wheels can also be used in all-weather types, year-round. They only require basic cleaning, with soap and water, during your normal car wash. This is especially important to consider in inclement climates, like the Midwest or East Coast. During snowy, winter conditions, it is common for Magnesium Chloride and salt to be used on roads. This unfortunately not only eats away at snow, but also plated chrome. In these conditions, it is recommended that chrome plated wheels are removed during the winter, and in summer when in use, require meticulous maintenance. Also, salt causes chrome to crack, peel and pit – while PVD resists such negative effects.
Make the Upgrade to PVD
If, for some reason your PVD rims do get damaged, they can be repaired or re-coated easily. While you can re-plate chrome, it is difficult and expensive. This is why most wheel manufacturers only offer warranties on chrome wheels for 1-2 years, while PVD is often guaranteed for 3+ years.
As an added perk of PVD vs. chrome wheels, PVD is made with environmentally-friendly products, while chrome uses incredibly toxic chemicals, such as hexavalent chromium. If one or the other is going to be wearing off on our streets and air, it’s best to keep it as green as possible.
So, PVD has all the benefits of powder-coating, combined with the good looks of chrome, for an unbeatable combination