You may have been wondering, “What’s the difference between painted and diamond cut alloy wheel?”

The following is a quick guide to the differences between painted and diamond cut alloy wheels. The difference between these two finishes lies in the method of polishing and refinishing.

The difference between painted and diamond cut alloy wheels lies in the technique, with diamond cut alloys wheels, a layer of material is removed from the face, using a diamond-cut machine, the wheel is cut into a highly polished surface.

A computer-controlled diamond-cutting machine removes this layer of paint, creating a metallic finish on the wheel’s face. The wheel is then lacquered to seal in the shine.

Painted wheels, on the other hand, have a powder coated surface that is not exposed to UV rays. Instead, the alloy is coated with a dry powder. A special machine applies the powder to the surface, which cures with heat. Afterwards, the wheel is placed in an oven at a specified temperature and time to set the powder. If you’re wondering what the difference is, powder-coated alloy wheels are similar to painted ones.

Another main difference between painted and diamond cut alloy wheels is the maintenance process. Compared to painted wheels, diamond cut wheels require more maintenance. Water and acids under the lacquer make it prone to corroding. When water gets under the lacquer, it seeps into the wheel, resulting in a milky appearance and a loss of structural integrity.

However, you can prolong the life of your diamond cut wheels by cleaning them with a pH-neutral wheel cleaner. Avoid using acid or alkaline-based cleaners as they can damage the finish of the wheel, if you’ve kerbed your alloy wheels or the lacquer is peeling they will need refurbishing; we have the specialist diamond cut machine to complete the repairing process, you can read more here Diamond Cut Wheel Repair