Everything You Need to Know About Auto Painting
Many people assume that auto paint only has aesthetic value, but it’s so much more than that. A good auto paint job is an involved process, requiring the help of highly trained professionals. Below are a few reasons why investing in a high-quality paint job for your vehicle is a smart and often cost-effective decision in the long-run.
Auto Paint Helps Cover Up Repairs and Damage
If you were recently in an accident that caused damage to your car, you might want to consider working with a repair shop that offers paint jobs to help cover the damage. Some repairs to the metal can’t cover up any external damage (scratches, etc.) that decrease the value of the car. If you were in an accident in the state of California, you are not required to work with repair shops recommended by your insurance company, so make sure you choose a shop known for high-quality car paint jobs.
Professionals Use Multiple Paint Layers
A good paint job includes a few layers of paint. The first layer, called the primer, helps bind the paint to the surface of the car. Without this layer, the paint can’t bond consistently with the body of the car, which could lead to flaking or chipping. The base layer (the color layer) is next. Base paint doesn’t include hardening or protective compounds, so it is not sturdy on its own. Car owners who attempt to do car paint jobs using only this layer are left with an unfinished surface prone to scratches.
A strong car paint job requires a “clear coat” finish layer, which is colorless, but it adds shine and protects the base layer. This means that any minor scratches to the body of the vehicle usually won’t penetrate through to cause damage to the base coat. This layer is made from urethane or polyurethane and contains UV inhibitors to protect against the sun’s harsh bleaching rays. It’s important to work with professionals who are well-versed in this terminology and process.
Prolong the Life of Auto Paint
In addition to the standard three-layer model, there are additional protective products you can purchase to protect the life of your auto paint. One option is called “clear bra,” a protective film of clear paint that offers extra protection against scrapes, water damage, and UV damage. It also adds shine and will keep your vehicle looking new for longer. This film is offered by auto customization shops at a reasonable price. These shops can also do custom paint jobs (one-stage acrylic paint, metallic finish specialty paints, etc.) that will help set your vehicle apart.
Preserves the Value of the Car
The main reason it makes sense to invest in a high-quality paint job, especially if you’ve been in a recent accident and had repairs done that left lasting damage, is to increase the value of your car. Cars that are in good condition mechanically, but that have obvious external damage will often sell for much lower than what they are worth. Make sure you’re getting the best value out of your car by upgrading its paint job today.