Metallic paint, which may also called metal flake (or incorrectly named polychromatic), is a type of paint that is most common on new automobiles, but is also used for other purposes. Metallic paint can reveal the contours of bodywork more than non-metallic, or "solid" paint. Close-up, the small metal flakes included in the paint create a sparkling effect mimicking a metal surface.
Description
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Metallic paints, or just metallics, generally consist of a base coat with a clear "lacquer", usually a transparent acrylic polyurethane top coat, for protection and extra gloss.[1]
"Flop", or "flip-flop", refers to the difference between the amount or hue of light reflected at different angles from a metallic paint surface. The differences are caused by the size and reflectivity of the flakes in the paint, and also by their orientation and the degree to which they are all oriented in the same direction. Historically, it was difficult to achieve an invisible repair if the paint was damaged because it is critical to reproduce the flop of the original surface as well as its pigment. Modern techniques have more or less eliminated this problem.[2]
Variations
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Metallic paints may be generically referred to as metal-flake paint, but a specific variation uses larger flakes of metal that are individually visible. Flakes with different colour effects may also be used within the same paint.[3]
Pearlescent paint uses embedded pieces of iridescent material to produce subtly different colours depending on the angle and intensity of the light. More radical colour changes and "two-tone" or "flip" colours (e.g. from purple to orange) are sometimes produced. Two-tone paints such as ChromaFlair have been used by Nissan on some special parts, and are frequently associated with TVR cars.
Metallic paint is sometimes described as polychromatic paint, although sometimes only two paints showing strong colour-changing effects.[4] This is distinct from polychrome decoration, which is a traditional decoration in multiple flat colours.
"Candy apple" or "flamboyant" paint consists of a metallic base coat, usually silver or gold, covered with a translucent coloured lacquer, or more commonly urethane. It gives an unusual effect of depth, but is almost impossible to touch up after damage without leaving an obvious mark. It is common on bikes, motorcycles and electric guitars.[citation needed] It has also traditionally been used on custom hot rod cars, and in the 21st century, has become more common in factory paint colors (most commonly as an extra-cost option). One example of such a color is Mazda Soul Red Crystal, which consists of a transparent red layer over a separate layer containing both reflective and light-absorbing metal flakes, creating a strong difference in the brightness of the color depending on the viewing angle. Ford Ruby Red is another example, although the effect is subtler. (This type of paint should not be confused with Ford's 1966 "Candy Apple Red" color, which, despite its name, was actually a solid red with no metallic or candy effect. The use of the term "candy" or "candy apple" to describe multi-layered metallic colors has come about since that color was discontinued.)
Hammer paint dries in a pattern that looks like hammered metal. It is more commonly used on machinery.
Expense
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Luxury car manufacturers (particularly German marques such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz) almost always charge a premium for the "option" of metallic paint on a new vehicle. This is often considered a captive market as metallic paints usually account for all but one or two of the colors from the palette available (only red, black, and white are available as solid colors from many brands). Buyers may choose to pay it, in some cases merely to maintain resale value.[citation needed]
The price premium for metallic paint is GBP 500 or USD 1000 for a large car, while pearlescent paint (such as White Diamond Pearl) is even more expensive. For BMW Canada and BMW North America, the metallic paint premium applies to entry-level offerings such as the BMW 3 Series (resulting in a disproportionate number of 3 Series cars sold in the late 2000s being white)[1] and the BMW X1, while more expensive cars such as the BMW 5 Series have metallic paint as a no-charge option.[citation needed]
Given that having a car subsequently resprayed in a metallic color is no more expensive than for a solid color, many consider the price premium for metallic paint as a way to boost the base price of a luxury car. Japanese luxury marques and many mass market brands usually do not charge extra for metallic paint.[citation needed]
See also
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References
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Several studies, including one from Brigham Young University, have shown that merchandise with a sign outsold merchandise without a sign by 20 percent. However, in order to stay visible, the signs need to incorporate the right colors. This is especially true when it comes to advertising on business vehicles: while the right colors can boost visibility and give your business a sense of professionalism, boring or bland colors can have the exact opposite effect. Here’s a quick guide for business owners to help determine which shades are best when advertising on business vehicles.
In traditional advertising, red is thought to stimulate the appetite, making it a common choice among fast food establishments. In terms of advertising on business vehicles, red certainly increase visibility. That said, car wraps that consist mostly of red may be a bit overbearing and draw the wrong type of attention to the business. The bottom line? Red should be used primarily for embellishment as opposed to substance.
Blue is another popular shade when it comes to wrapping vehicles. It’s thought to make the viewer feel calm and at ease, as well as putting out a strictly professional vibe in many business contexts.
“It’s associated with peace, water, tranquility, and reliability. Blue provides a sense of security, curbs appetite, and stimulates productivity. The most common color used by conservative brands looking to promote trust in their products” says Small Business Trends.
Green is the shade best known for its association with nature, and it’s being embraced by countless businesses in the sustainable living and eco-friendly industry sectors. On average, consumers are exposed to 3,000 ads and promotional messages every day, and darker shades of green can make a powerful impact when used strategically in your vehicle advertising designs.
Yellow is the shade most associated with energy and positivity. If your business is focused on helping people or spreading positivity, incorporating yellow can definitely help — but don’t go overboard or your vehicle might get mistaken for a taxi!
Purple is associated with passion and is frequently used by businesses in the beauty industry. Even so, it’s a rather uncommon shade to see on a vehicle, so incorporating purple can help to make your vehicle really stand out.
There’s no denying that car wraps serve as an effective and long-term way of building brand awareness and gaining more customers. Generally, 85% of a company’s customers live within a five-mile radius of the business. Those customers are likely to see the signage for that business 50 or more times a week, and even more when it’s on a car wrap. Many people may have concerns about whether or not the existing color of their vehicle will show through after the wrap is complete. While this may be an issue with inexperienced DIY-ers or unprofessional companies, top-quality providers always ensure that the color of your vehicle will not show through or impact the final look of your car wrap. Top car wrap providers use the best and strongest materials to prevent any unwanted color from leaking through. If you have any more specific questions, call us at 972-686-1155. simply talk to your local car wrap provider.
Ultimately, the sky’s the limit when it comes to creating and installing the perfect car wrap for your business. Don’t hesitate to think outside the box and use some colors that will truly reflect the top products or services your business provides. For more information about vinyl lettering for vehicles, contact Accurate Signs.
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