How to Get Any KBS MAXX Color in the Finish You Want

The short answer: KBS MAXX colors do not lock you into a specific sheen level. If a color you want only comes in matte and you want gloss, apply the matte color coat first, then topcoat it with KBS MAXX Clear (Gloss). If a color only comes in gloss and you want satin or flat, apply the gloss color coat first, then topcoat it with KBS MAXX Clear (Satin) or KBS MAXX Clear (Flat). In both cases, the clear coat controls the final sheen while the color coat underneath provides the pigment — and the full 2K durability of the KBS MAXX system carries through in either direction.

Why This Works

KBS MAXX is a direct-to-metal 2K urethane coating that chemically cross-links with an activator to form a hard, durable film. All KBS MAXX products — colored and clear, matte and gloss — share the same base chemistry. The KBS MAXX Clears (Gloss, Satin, and Flat) are designed to bond directly to a cured KBS MAXX color coat without a separate adhesion promoter.

This gives you a straightforward way to separate the color decision from the sheen decision. You are not limited to the sheen options a particular color is offered in. Apply the color you want, then apply the clear that delivers the finish you want.

Use Case 1: Your Color Only Comes in Matte — You Want Gloss

If the KBS MAXX color you want is only available in matte, apply it as your color coat and then topcoat with KBS MAXX Clear (Gloss). The result is a 90–95% gloss level measured at 60° — a true high-gloss finish comparable to an automotive clear coat — with the color and protection of the KBS MAXX 2K system underneath.

What You Will Need

Required:

• KBS MAXX in your chosen matte color
• KBS MAXX Clear (Gloss)
• Brush, foam roller, or HVLP spray gun
• Mixing cup

If needed (see prep notes below):

• 600–1200 grit sandpaper — only if the color coat has surface imperfections that need to be leveled
• KBS Klean — only if the surface has been exposed to contamination, dust, or the elements

Step 1 — Apply Your Matte Color Coat

Apply 1–2 coats of KBS MAXX in the matte color you want. Brush, foam roller, and HVLP spray are all supported. Allow the color coat to fully dry and harden before moving on — do not apply the clear coat over a partially cured color coat.

The key between this step and the clear coat is keeping the surface clean and protecting it from the elements. If the cured color coat stays clean and undisturbed, you can apply KBS MAXX Clear (Gloss) directly on top without any additional prep.

Review the KBS MAXX Clear Application Directions for temperature requirements and cure time guidance before you start.

If the Surface Has Imperfections — Sand First

If the color coat dried with surface defects — dust nibs, runs, or rough texture — sand them smooth with 600–1200 grit sandpaper before applying the clear. You are leveling the surface, not removing material. If you sand, clean the surface afterward before proceeding.

If the Surface Has Been Exposed — Clean with KBS Klean

If the cured color coat has been handled, exposed to dust, oils, or the elements, clean it with KBS Klean diluted at 10 parts hot water to 1 part KBS Klean. Wipe down, rinse with clean water, and allow to dry completely before applying the clear. Any contamination left on the surface will show through a gloss coat.

Step 2 — Mix KBS MAXX Clear (Gloss) at 3:1

Mix KBS MAXX Clear (Gloss) at a 3:1 ratio — 3 parts clear base to 1 part activator. Stir thoroughly and allow the mixture to induct for a few minutes. Once mixed, use within the pot life window specified in the application directions.

Step 3 — Apply KBS MAXX Clear (Gloss)

Apply by brush, foam roller, or HVLP spray gun in multiple thin coats. Allow each coat to flash off before applying the next. The finished result is a 90–95% gloss level measured at 60°, with the chemical resistance, UV stability, and hardness of the full KBS MAXX 2K urethane system underneath.

Use Case 2: Your Color Only Comes in Gloss — You Want Satin or Flat

If the KBS MAXX color you want is only available in gloss and you prefer a satin or flat finish, apply the gloss color coat and then topcoat with KBS MAXX Clear (Satin) or KBS MAXX Clear (Flat). The clear coat brings the sheen level down to where you want it while the color coat underneath handles the pigment.

What You Will Need

Required:

• KBS MAXX in your chosen gloss color
• KBS MAXX Clear (Satin) or KBS MAXX Clear (Flat) — depending on your target finish
• Brush, foam roller, or HVLP spray gun
• Mixing cup

If needed (see prep notes below):

• 600–1200 grit sandpaper — only if the color coat has surface imperfections
• KBS Klean — only if the surface has been exposed to contamination, dust, or the elements

Step 1 — Apply Your Gloss Color Coat

Apply 1–2 coats of KBS MAXX in the gloss color you want. Allow the color coat to fully dry and harden before applying the clear. Keep the surface clean and protected from the elements while it cures — if the surface stays clean and smooth, you can apply the satin or flat clear directly on top without any additional prep.

If the Surface Has Imperfections or Has Been Exposed

Same rules apply as in Use Case 1: sand any surface defects smooth with 600–1200 grit sandpaper if needed, and clean with KBS Klean (10:1 hot water to KBS Klean) if the surface has been contaminated. Rinse and dry completely before applying the clear.

Step 2 — Mix Your Clear at 3:1

Mix KBS MAXX Clear (Satin) or Clear (Flat) at a 3:1 ratio — 3 parts clear base to 1 part activator. Stir thoroughly and allow to induct for a few minutes before applying. Use within the pot life window.

Step 3 — Apply KBS MAXX Clear (Satin) or Clear (Flat)

Apply by brush, foam roller, or HVLP spray gun in multiple thin coats, allowing each coat to flash off before applying the next. The clear coat brings the overall finish down to a satin or flat sheen while leaving the color and 2K durability of the KBS MAXX color coat intact underneath.

Tips for the Best Results

Temperature and Humidity Matter

KBS MAXX products have temperature requirements for both application and cure. Apply in conditions above 50°F (10°C) and below 90°F (32°C) when possible. High humidity can affect cure times and the final sheen level — especially with satin and flat clears, where the flatting agents in the formula are sensitive to application conditions. Check the KBS MAXX Clear Application Directions for your specific conditions.

Thin Coats Over Heavy Coats

Whether applying the color coat or the clear coat, multiple thin coats produce a better result than one heavy coat. Thick coats trap solvents, slow cure, and increase the risk of runs — particularly important with a gloss clear coat where any imperfection is visible.

If You Do Sand, Grit Matters

If you need to sand the color coat before applying the clear, use 1200 grit or finer for the final pass. Coarser grits leave scratches that can show through a gloss clear coat. Always clean after sanding to remove all dust before applying any KBS MAXX Clear.

Clean Mixing Containers

Contamination in your mixing container — moisture, dust, or residue from other products — can affect the cure and clarity of the clear coat. Use a fresh, clean mixing cup every time.

Common Questions

Can I use KBS MAXX Clear (Gloss) over any KBS MAXX matte color?

Yes. KBS MAXX Clear (Gloss) bonds directly to any cured KBS MAXX color coat, regardless of the sheen of the color underneath.

Can I use KBS MAXX Clear (Satin) or Clear (Flat) over any KBS MAXX gloss color?

Yes. KBS MAXX Clear (Satin) and Clear (Flat) are formulated to topcoat any cured KBS MAXX color coat and will bring the overall finish down to a satin or flat sheen while preserving the color underneath.

What is the difference between KBS MAXX Clear (Satin) and Clear (Flat)?

The difference is sheen level. Satin has a subtle luster — it reduces gloss without eliminating it entirely. Flat has minimal reflectivity and produces a matte appearance. Both use the same 2K urethane chemistry and deliver the same durability as the rest of the KBS MAXX line. If you are unsure which to order, request a free color sample from the KBS MAXX product page.

What gloss level does KBS MAXX Clear (Gloss) produce?

KBS MAXX Clear (Gloss) delivers 90–95% gloss measured at 60° — a high-gloss result comparable to a professional automotive clear coat.

Do I have to scuff between the color coat and the clear coat?

No — not if the color coat is clean and smooth. KBS MAXX Clears bond directly to a cured KBS MAXX color coat without sanding. Sanding is only needed if the color coat has surface imperfections that need to be leveled. If you do sand, clean the surface with KBS Klean afterward to remove all sanding dust before applying the clear.

Do I need to clean the surface before applying the clear coat?

Only if the surface needs it. If the cured color coat is clean and undisturbed, you can apply KBS MAXX Clear directly. If the surface has been handled or exposed to dust, oils, or the elements, clean it with KBS Klean diluted 10 parts hot water to 1 part KBS Klean. Wipe down, rinse, and allow to dry completely before applying the clear.

What is the mix ratio for all KBS MAXX Clears?

All three KBS MAXX Clears — Gloss, Satin, and Flat — mix at 3 parts base to 1 part activator (3:1 by volume). See the KBS MAXX Clear Application Directions for pot life, dry times, and application details.

Can KBS MAXX Clear be brushed, rolled, or sprayed?

Yes. All KBS MAXX Clears can be applied by brush, foam roller, or HVLP spray gun. Brush and roller work well for flat surfaces. A spray gun gives a finer finish on complex shapes or larger panels.