Brake Caliper Painting
What is Brake Caliper Painting?
Professional Brake Caliper Painting Services at The Alloy Refurb Centre
Why Choose Professional Caliper Finishes
At Alloy Refurb Centre in Harlow, Essex, we specialise in professional brake caliper painting to enhance the look and longevity of your vehicle’s braking system.
Caliper painting, also known as caliper spraying or brake painting, is an excellent way to customise the appearance of your car while protecting your brake components from rust and corrosion. Most top-spec performance cars provide caliper painting as an optional extra, like this Range Rover SVR.
We offer two methods for caliper painting: wet spray and powder coating. Both methods provide a smooth, high-gloss finish and allows for a wide range of color options, powder coating offers a more durable, long-lasting finish. Caliper painting not only improves the aesthetic appeal of your vehicle but also helps to prolong the life of your brake calipers, ensuring your car looks great and performs reliably on the road.
The Wet Spray Method
Wet spraying brake calipers is a meticulous process that starts with thorough rust removal, followed by sanding and smoothing to ensure a clean surface. Once prepped, the calipers are carefully masked to protect areas that shouldn’t be painted. A primer is then applied to create a strong bond for the paint. The calipers are coated with a specialized basecoat using VHT (Very High Temperature) caliper paint, which is designed to withstand extreme heat, making it ideal for performance vehicles and track days. Finally, a clear lacquer is applied to protect the finish and provide a high-gloss, durable look that enhances the overall appearance of the brakes.
Wet spray brake caliper painting is a quicker and cheaper method as opposed to powder coating. The finish is strong and produces a nice outcome, however, powder coating does produce a far superior finish. Wet spray caliper painting takes roughly 6 hours to complete.
The Powder Coat Method
Powder coat caliper painting is a high-quality process that delivers a superior finish compared to traditional wet paint methods. Have a look out our powder coating page to find out more about our process.
The process begins with the careful removal of the brake calipers, which may require bleeding the brakes to ensure proper removal. Next, the pistons are taken out, and the calipers are dipped in an acid bath to remove all rust, dirt, and old paint. After the acid bath, the calipers are sandblasted to create a smooth, clean surface. They are then pre-baked in an oven at 200 degrees to remove any remaining impurities and moisture.
Once prepared, the calipers are coated with a durable powder and finished with a clear lacquer, creating a flawless, long-lasting finish that can withstand extreme conditions. Although this process takes 2-3 days and is more costly than wet spray, the end result is a far more durable and resilient finish that is perfect for car enthusiasts looking for the best in both appearance and performance.
NOTE: Powder coating calipers is a lot more expensive than wet spray and the cost can be variable according to the car, we also need to hold the car for up to three days.
Comparing Wet Spray vs Powder Coating
When deciding between wet spray and powder coating for brake caliper refinishing, it’s important to consider both the finish and durability. Wet spray is a faster process, making it a cost-effective option for drivers who want a refreshed look without a lengthy turnaround. It provides a smooth, glossy finish and is ideal if you’re looking for a colour change at a lower price point. However, powder coating goes a step further. It involves stripping the calipers, pre-baking, and applying a highly durable powder before sealing with a clear lacquer. The end result is a finish that can withstand higher temperatures and last significantly longer. While powder coating requires more time and investment, it is the premium option for car enthusiasts who want the ultimate blend of style, protection, and performance.
How Caliper Refinishing Protects Performance
Brake caliper refinishing isn’t only about style; it also plays a role in protecting your vehicle’s braking system. Over time, calipers are exposed to heat, road grime, and moisture, all of which can lead to corrosion and reduced efficiency. By refinishing and painting your calipers, a protective barrier is created that helps prevent rust and damage. This ensures the calipers continue to move freely and operate as designed, reducing the risk of uneven braking or sticking pistons. High-temperature coatings such as powder or VHT paints are designed to handle the intense heat generated during braking, making them particularly suitable for performance cars or vehicles used on track days. A well-maintained braking system doesn’t just look better – it supports consistent performance and helps extend the life of critical components.
Costs and Turnaround Times for Caliper Work
The cost and time required for brake caliper painting will vary depending on the method chosen. Wet spray caliper painting is typically the more affordable option, as it involves less preparation and can usually be completed within a single day, often in as little as six hours. Powder coating, on the other hand, is more labour-intensive. It requires removing the calipers, stripping old coatings, and applying multiple stages of treatment. Because of this, the vehicle may need to stay with us for two to three days, and the cost is higher. While wet spray suits those looking for a budget-friendly refresh, powder coating is recommended for clients who want a premium, long-lasting finish. We’ll always provide a clear quote in advance so you can choose the option that best fits your needs and budget.