Difference between Metallic and Non-Metallic Paint for Vehicles

Difference between Metallic and Non-Metallic Paint for 
Vehicles 

In spray painting vehicles, the owner has the option to either use metallic paint or non-metallic 
paint. What is the difference between these two types of paint and what would suit your vehicle 
better? 

Basically, metallic paint is the shiny paint, while non-metallic is the matte version. Generally 
speaking, metallic paint types are seen more in cars and SUVs than in bigger vehicles such as 
buses and trucks. The preference is driven by various factors to be considered by the user. 

The Difference 

Metallic paint incorporates very small pieces of metal that gives sheen to the paint finish. The 
paint allows for better light reflection, giving the effect of a brilliant, shiny finish. The metal 
fragments are mixed with the paint itself. 

Non-metallic paint provides a matte effect when used on vehicles. As opposed to metallic paint, 
there are no metal fragments in the paint solution so it appears to be one solid colour. 

Applications 

Metallic paint is commonly applied to new cars, giving them that cool factor that every car 
owner would like to see on their vehicle. With proper lighting the metallic paint gives off that 
sparkling, shiny finish that makes the car look grand. Generally, it is more commonly seen in 
smaller vehicles such cars and SUVs because of the owner's preference for a shiny car exterior. 
Although some car owners do go for a matte finish, a greater percentage of car owners prefer the 
"new" effect of metallic paint. 

The higher costs associated with metallic paint makes their application limited to personal 
preference of the car owner. In larger vehicles like buses, coaches and trucks, the matte paint is 
the more practical choice. Because large vehicles are mostly run for a business, cost efficiency is 
important. It would be too costly to use metallic paint to a fleet of vehicles when there is really 
no need for the vanity in it. It would also not be suitable to use metallic paint for large vehicles 
as it would cause unpleasant shine and light reflection from such large vehicles. 

Maintenance is another factor. While metallic paint is very good at hiding imperfections, it is 
also more difficult to repair when it gets damaged. This is not a quality that businesses would 
like to deal with. 

Professional Refinishing 

Whatever your choice for vehicle paint, Sprayrite Qld can give you the desired paint finish. 
Using state of the art Paint Booths , Sprayrite Qld always manages to come up with the best spray