Chrome Plating
We restore the bright mirror finish using our triple plating method for lasting results.
We restore car badges, motorcycle parts, bathroom taps, door furniture, and anything else that needs that bright, reflective chrome finish. Chrome is thin on its own, so we apply it over copper and nickel base layers using our triple plating process. This creates durability and prevents the peeling and corrosion that happens when chrome is applied directly. The result is a tough, lasting finish with that deep mirror shine chrome is known for. We've been chrome plating since 1962, working on everything from vintage car bumpers to modern bathroom fittings. Whether you're restoring a classic vehicle or refreshing household items, we handle chrome work properly.
Why Choose Us for Chrome Plating
Chrome plating needs proper preparation and the right base layers to last. We've been doing this for over 60 years, using a triple plating method that gives chrome the protection and shine it needs. Every job is handled by our team with experience built over three generations.
Family run since 1962 with decades of chrome plating expertise
Triple plating process using copper, nickel, and chrome layers
Mirror finish that's smooth, reflective, and durable
Experience with automotive, motorcycle, bathroom fittings, and decorative chrome
Proper prep work prevents peeling and corrosion
Honest advice on what can and can't be chrome plated
Fair pricing with realistic timescales before work starts
How We Chrome Plate Your Items
Chrome needs a solid foundation to work. Plating it directly onto metal doesn't last. We use a triple plating method that builds durability into the finish. Here's how we do it.
Strip and Inspect
We remove old chrome and assess the base metal. Damage, pitting, or corrosion gets addressed before plating starts. If repairs are needed, we let you know upfront.
Polish to Perfection
Chrome shows every scratch, dent, and imperfection underneath. We polish the surface until it's smooth and even. This step determines how the final chrome looks.
Clean Thoroughly
The surface gets cleaned to remove oils, dirt, and residue. Chrome won't bond properly to a contaminated surface.
Apply Copper Base
Copper is applied first to create a smooth foundation. It fills minor imperfections and helps the nickel and chrome bond properly.
Plate with Nickel
Nickel goes on next. This layer provides the protective barrier that makes chrome durable. Without nickel, chrome peels and corrodes quickly.
Apply Chrome
Chrome is the final layer. It's thin but creates that mirror shine. Applied over copper and nickel, it becomes tough and long lasting.
Final Buff
After plating, we buff the chrome to bring out the full shine and remove any minor surface marks.
Most chrome work takes 2 to 3 weeks due to the multiple layers involved. Complex or damaged items may take longer.
What Can Be Chrome Plated
Chrome works on many metals and suits both functional and decorative applications. Here's what we commonly chrome plate.
Automotive and Car Parts
Badges, trim pieces, bumpers, grills, door handles, mirrors, light bezels, classic car restoration parts, and decorative chrome details.
Motorcycle Components
Exhaust pipes, engine covers, handlebars, brake levers, foot pegs, mirrors, sissy bars, kickstarts, vintage motorcycle restoration, and custom chrome work.
Bathroom and Household Fittings
Taps, shower heads, towel rails, toilet roll holders, bathroom accessories, door handles, cabinet hardware, and light fittings.
Decorative and Display Items
Picture frames, mirrors, furniture fittings, table legs, railings, vintage lighting, and decorative metalwork where a bright, modern finish is needed.
Industrial and Functional Parts
Machine components, tools, brackets, and parts needing corrosion resistance and a smooth, hard surface.
Chrome doesn't bond well to certain metals without special prep. Aluminium needs specific treatment. Stainless steel is difficult to chrome. Send photos if you're unsure and we'll advise.
Who Uses Our Chrome Plating Service
Chrome plating serves different customers for different reasons. Classic car restorers want that factory shine. Homeowners want modern bathroom fittings. Motorcyclists want custom chrome work. We handle it all.
Classic Car and Vehicle Restorers Replating bumpers, badges, trim, grills, and parts to restore vintage vehicles to original condition or better.
Motorcycle Owners and Custom Builders Chroming exhaust pipes, engine parts, handlebars, and custom components for restored or modified bikes.
Homeowners and Property Renovators Refreshing bathroom taps, towel rails, door furniture, and vintage fittings where chrome has worn or dulled over time.
Businesses and Commercial Use Restoring chrome for shopfittings, display items, furniture, and fixtures that need refreshing or refinishing.
Anyone with Worn Chrome Items that have dulled, pitted, corroded, or peeled can be stripped and rechromed to look new again.
What Does Chrome Plating Cost
Chrome pricing depends on size, condition, and how much prep work is involved. Items needing repairs or heavy polishing cost more due to the extra time. The triple plating process takes longer than single layer finishes, which affects pricing.
Send clear photos showing the size and condition of what needs chroming. We'll assess the work involved and give you a clear quote before starting. No hidden costs.
Turnaround is typically 2 to 3 weeks for most chrome work. Larger items or those needing extensive prep may take longer. We'll confirm timings when we quote.
How to Send Items to Us
Customers across the UK send us chrome work regularly. Here's how to do it safely.
Pack Carefully Wrap items securely in bubble wrap or cloth. Use a strong box with padding to stop movement during transit. Include your contact details and return address.
Send Insured Always use tracked and insured delivery. Royal Mail Special Delivery or a courier with full insurance protects you if anything goes wrong.
What Happens We'll confirm as soon as your items arrive. You'll get updates throughout the work, and we'll arrange secure return delivery when finished.
Our Address Stevenson Platers 34 Woodgrange Avenue Harrow London HA3 0XD
Common Questions About Chrome Plating
Here are the questions we hear most often about chrome plating. If yours isn't listed, just get in touch.
Why do you use copper and nickel before chrome?
Chrome is thin and porous on its own. Applied directly to steel or brass, it doesn't protect well and peels quickly. Copper creates a smooth base and fills imperfections. Nickel provides the protective barrier that makes chrome durable. Chrome on top gives the mirror shine. This triple plating method makes chrome last properly. Without the base layers, chrome fails.
Can you chrome plate items that are badly pitted or damaged?
It depends on the damage. Light pitting can be polished out before plating. Deep pitting or heavy corrosion may still show through the chrome. In some cases, repairs or welding can fix damage before plating. Send photos and we'll let you know what can be done and what the result will look like.
How long does chrome plating last?
Chrome applied properly over nickel and copper can last decades. Items kept indoors or protected from weather last longest. Chrome exposed to salt, moisture, or harsh conditions will eventually corrode, but it holds up much longer than most other finishes. How you care for chrome also affects longevity.
Can chrome plating be done on aluminium?
Yes, but aluminium needs special preparation first. It requires a specific treatment process called zincating before copper, nickel, and chrome can be applied. Not all chrome platers handle aluminium. We do, but the extra prep affects pricing and turnaround. Let us know if your item is aluminium when you get in touch.
Will the chrome finish look exactly like new factory chrome?
It should look as good or better. The quality depends on the polishing done beforehand. Factory chrome often has imperfections. We polish parts thoroughly before plating, so the result is usually smoother and shinier than original factory finishes. If matching factory chrome is crucial, let us know and we'll discuss expectations.
How do I care for chrome plated items?
Wipe chrome with a soft cloth and warm soapy water for regular cleaning. Dry thoroughly after washing to prevent water spots. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads that scratch the surface. For outdoor chrome, wax it occasionally to add protection. Chrome exposed to salt should be rinsed and dried regularly to prevent corrosion.
Can I drop my items off in person?
Yes. We're in Harrow, London. Bringing items directly often works better, especially for larger or fragile parts. Call 07391 007 123 first to arrange a time that works.
Can you replate chrome that's worn or peeling?
Yes. We strip the old chrome back to bare metal, repair any damage, polish the surface, and apply fresh copper, nickel, and chrome layers. Items that have worn through to the base metal or developed rust can be restored. Send photos and we'll assess what's needed.
What's the difference between bright chrome and satin chrome?
Bright chrome is the standard mirror finish with maximum shine. Satin chrome has a softer, brushed appearance with less reflection. Both are durable, but the look is different. Most people choose bright chrome. If you want satin, let us know when you get in touch.
Can chrome be applied to plastic or non-metal items?
Not through electroplating. Chrome plating requires the item to conduct electricity, which plastic doesn't. Some items can be coated with conductive paint first, but results vary. For plastic, spray chrome or vacuum metalizing are alternatives, but we don't offer those. Our chrome plating is for metal items only.
Get Your Free Quote
Tell us what needs chrome plating and send photos showing size and condition. Let us know if it's automotive, motorcycle, household, or something else.
Chrome Plating Across London and the UK
We've been chrome plating for customers across London and throughout the UK since 1962. From classic car restoration and motorcycle work to bathroom fittings and decorative chrome, we handle the work properly using our triple plating process. Based in Harrow, we're here to help. Visit us directly or send items by post with full insurance.
Chrome pricing depends on size, condition, and how much prep work is involved. Items needing repairs or heavy polishing cost more due to the extra time. The triple plating process takes longer than single layer finishes, which affects pricing.