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How to Repair Different Types of Scratches: with products from the Auto Paint Depot

Posted on June 20, 2024 by

There are not many things more frustrating than receiving a scratch on your vehicle. Enduring a scratch on your beloved vehicle can occur in a multitude of ways. The most common ways result from the everyday risks of driving. Road debris can strike your vehicle while driving. Small rocks and pebbles can impose damage as they strike your vehicle at high velocities. Accidents can occur from people leaving scratches on your vehicle from shopping cart damage.

This is often unavoidable as you leave your vehicle unattended. Consider parking farther away from other vehicles in parking lots to help lessen the probability of accidents like these. Scratches can also form from intentional damage. Car vandals can use sharp objects to rub against your vehicle and inflict damage. This type of vandalism is often referred to as “keying.”

Depending upon the severity of the damage, different processes of repair must be followed for the best results. Most vehicles have three layers of paint, with tri-coat variants being the exception. The level of scratch must be determined. Some minor scratches only penetrate the first layer of clearcoat, while other deeper scratches can travel all the way down to the primer level. In most cases, buffing out or waxing scratches does not fully rectify the issue. In fact, too much buffing and polishing can slowly strip away parts of the clear coat top layer. To avoid this situation, consider trying our touch-up products to fix any imperfections the right way. Repainting the damaged surface will lead to better results.

Thankfully, the Auto Paint Depot is here to address all of your scratch repair needs! We have all the products you need to make your car look better than ever. It is important to note that some scratches may not be able to be repaired completely without the help of a professional. Discussed below are the varying levels of scratches and how to fix them.

Clear Coat Scratches

Scratches to the top clear coat layer can usually be easily repaired. Clear coat scratches only break the top protective layer. To test for a clear coat scratch, start by running your fingernail through the scratch. If your nail does not sink into the scratch, then it is a minor clearcoat scratch. Deeper level scratches require more repair. In addition, another way to test for a clearcoat scratch is to mix water and soap in a spray bottle. Then, spray the mixture on the scratch. If the mixture visibly disappears while wet, you have a clearcoat scratch.

Although this may seem like a minor inconvenience, fixing the scratch will provide an added benefit. A damaged clearcoat layer can leave the basecoat paint exposed to the elements. Clear coat protects your vehicle’s paint from UV radiation, dust, dirt, and debris. It is also responsible for giving your vehicle a glossy finish. Neglecting a clearcoat scratch can lead to damage of the base color layer of paint, as it no longer has protection.

Repair a clear coat scratch by first cleaning the area of the scratch. Be sure to use car wash soap and a micro-fiber cloth to dry the surface. Assess the amount of clear coat you need for repair. Most minor scratches can be fixed with our half-ounce and one-ounce bottles. Large scale scratches to full body sections can be restored by using our aerosol spray cans.

Once the surface is dry, begin with the first coat of clear. The first coat must be light. Next, let ten minutes pass for drying and apply two more coats. Once each layer is complete, allow the surface to dry for 24 hours. Once 24 hours have passed, you can begin to buff out and wax the surface to ensure the prior scratch blends into the rest of the vehicle.

Color Coat Scratches

Scratches to the vehicle’s basecoat paint breakthrough two layers. Both the clear coat and basecoat color layer are damaged by the scratch. A color coat layer scratch is more noticeable than a clear coat scratch. Actual paint fragments are chipped off when damage to the color layer occurs. Basically, the color has been removed from the vehicle. This results in a more visible scratch that reveals the primer layer. Automotive primers are grey in most cases. It is important to repair this scratch to not only improve the general appearance of your car, but also to prevent rust from forming.

Make sure you have the right paint code for your vehicle before you purchase touch-up paint. Your vehicle’s unique paint code can be found in the driver’s side door jam. If you need further assistance finding the vehicle’s paint code, make use of the paint code search generator on the homepage of our website. All you must provide is the model, make, and year of your vehicle and our database will generate the correct paint code. Once you have your paint code, the next step is to decide what size of paint you need for the job. Our ounce bottles are perfect for small scratches and our aerosol spray cans are best suited for full panel repair.

As with all painting projects, the first step is cleaning the area. Once again, use specifically formulated car wash soap and dry the area thoroughly with a micro-fiber cloth. Additionally, cover surfaces around the scratch that you do not intend to get paint on. Use the touch-up brush included with our products to paint over the scratch. Use even, thin passes to achieve the best results. Refer to our “How to Videos” tab on the website to gain a visual representation.

Typically, three layers of paint will suffice. Be certain to let each layer dry for approximately fifteen minutes before starting the next layer. It is important to note that less is more, do not oversaturate the scratch with too much paint as it can bubble over and have an “orange peel” like effect. After an hour has passed, apply clear coat to add a layer of protection to the new layer of paint. More information about “orange peel” paint can be obtained by reading a previous blog, linked below.

https://theautopaintdepot.com/orange-peel-paint/

Primer Scratches

Scratches that reach the primer layer are the deepest and most damaging forms of damage. This level of damage slices through all three layers. Primer scratches often leave the vehicle’s metal, plastic, or fiberglass body exposed to the environment. This type of scratch is easily identifiable as the car’s bare metal can be seen clearly. Primer is used to help the color layer bond more efficiently with the vehicle. It separates the body of the vehicle from the color coat layer. Thus, replacing primer after a deep scratch is imperative. Repairing primer is the most time sensitive as rust can form rather quickly if not addressed appropriately.

As stated before, deeply clean the area of the scratch before beginning the painting process. Once the surface is clean and all other areas are covered, begin applying the primer. Typically, two to three coats of primer are sufficient. Let each coat dry for twenty minutes before beginning the next coat. Once the primer layer is dry, sand down any imperfections using fine-grit sandpaper. The next coat to be added is the color basecoat. Lastly, apply the top clear coat layer to protect the repaired section.

Final Thoughts

To summarize, frustrating scratches to your vehicle can be repaired as a DIY project with products from the Auto Paint Depot. The causes of scratches are usually unavoidable as general day-to-day driving presents risks. However, one can take precautions to decrease the possibility of scratches. Determining the level of damage is vital to understanding what you need to fix the issue.

The three levels of paint include the clear coat top layer, basecoat layer (color), and the primer layer. Each increasing layer presents more damage and requires more work. We are here every step of the way for all your scratch repair needs. If you need any additional advice or assistance do not hesitate to contact the shop at (631) 392-1080.

Revamp Your Car While Also on a Budget: DIY Tips and Tricks for the Car Enthusiast from the Auto Paint Depot

Posted on August 4, 2023June 20, 2024 by

Applying cosmetic and mechanical upgrades to your car can be a costly endeavor. Fortunately, there are means to give your car a facelift, while also adhering to your personal budget. The common car enthusiast can save money by taking the time to learn and complete various tasks that can immensely improve the look of your car. Gaining the knowledge of how to fix your car on your own will save you costly trips to the body shop. The Auto Paint Depot has all the automotive supplies needed for you to make your car look better than ever at affordable prices. Follow these expert tips below on how to revamp your ride on a budget for the DIY car enthusiast.

Deep Cleaning and Detailing

Why take your car to a body shop or car wash to be cleaned and detailed, when you can get the same professional results as DIYer for a fraction of the cost? Having a weekly routine of washing your car is vital to keeping it looking great at all times. Our affordable specifically formulated car wash soaps and waxes will keep your car looking fresh without having to pay excessive prices. Vacuuming the interior of your car on your own can also be a money saver. A common household vacuum or shop vacuum will do the trick in cleaning the carpets and seats.

In addition, cleaning the interior of your car’s surfaces can be done in house by making one small purchase. Simply use automotive interior wipes to deeply clean the interior surfaces of the vehicle that cannot be reached with a vacuum.

Wiping down the center console and dashboard may seem like a small step but will contribute to making your car feel fresh out of the dealer. Consider investing in new floor mats and car seat covers. This worthwhile purchase will help your car stay cleaner longer and will reduce the chance of messiness and permanent damage.

Try using the professional grade car wax that we use on your car today. You will be pleased with the professional detailed look the car wax we supply will give your car. Remember to apply wax once every three months. In order not to oversaturate your car’s base paint layer. Take advantage of our automotive cleaning supplies to produce a professional finish from browsing our detailing and polishing section of the website.

Fix Small Scratches and Chips

Small imperfections and damage on your car are tough to notice on a day-to-day basis. Take the necessary time to thoroughly examine the body of your car to notice any small scratches and chips that could go unnoticed. Painting over small scratches and chips incorrectly will damage the final outcome of your DIY project. This will directly lead to spending more money to address the mistake.

Do not defeat the purpose of adhering to your budget. Therefore, consider using our touch-up paint bottles to address this issue on a budget. Our half-ounce and one-ounce bottles are perfect for repairing minor damage. Be informed to choose the correct color for your car by referencing the paint code in the driver’s side door jam.

When fixing small scratches and chips be sure to sand the area with the correct level grit of sandpaper. Next, use primer after sanding. Then, apply the base coat paint to your car. Apply three coats of base coat, while waiting fifteen-minute intervals in between coats ensuring they dry properly. Lastly, apply the clear coat to the desired area for at least three coats. Allow each clear coat layer to dry before applying the next layer. Following all of these steps will ensure that your DIY project will yield a professional result.

If you have any questions on how to do your DIY project, please call the shop at (631) 392-1080. We are with you every step of the way and can offer expert advice and recommendations when it comes to automotive paint and supplies. These aforementioned products can be purchased from our website directly for competitive prices.

Fresh Paint Job

Regularly when considering a fresh coat of paint for your car, the thought of the cost can be daunting. Body shops can often charge large fees for the full paint job of a vehicle. However, we at the Auto Paint Depot are here for all the car enthusiasts that are looking for great deals to supply all DIY needs. In general, when painting substantial portions of your car, we recommend purchasing our aerosol cans, pints, quarts, and gallons automotive paint products. In order to achieve the best results, a spray gun must be used. Be sure to follow all the directions we provide on how to use the activator product when painting your car.

The first step is to clean the car thoroughly before beginning the painting process. Wash your car with specially formulated car wash soap, rinse thoroughly, and dry your car using micro-fiber cloths to prevent water spots. One your car is clean, cover any parts of the vehicle that are not going to be painted. We recommend using cloths and tape to protect areas not being painted.

Begin sanding the area with the correct level of grit sandpaper. This process strips the current layer of paint down to the bare metal. In doing so, sanding removes the layer of rust produced and further helps to make the new layer adhere to the body better. Next, apply two to three coats of primer to the desired area. The use of primer is a vital step to the overall effectiveness of your DIY project. Primer acts as a bonding agent to aid in the paint holding more effectively to the body of the car.

Following the primer, begin applying the basecoat. While using the spray-gun, be sure to be 6-8 inches away from the body and apply the paint in even layers to achieve the best results. Repeat this process for the three coats, allowing each layer to dry for 20 minutes in between. The last step and unironically the last line of defense for your new paint job is applying clear coat. This invisible layer shield helps protect from debris and UV radiation, while also adding an aesthetically pleasing gloss finish to your car. Apply two to three coats and let each layer dry before applying the next.

All of the products needed for this DIY project can be found at the Auto Paint Depot. Please contact us with any further questions and concerns regarding your project. Also, watch our “How-To” videos on our website for a more visual representation.

Repair Windshield

Debris from the roads you drive on can strike your windshield and produce a scratch. Pesky pebbles and rocks are the main culprit for this occurrence. Once your windshield is cracked, you must repair it as soon as possible. A scratched windshield can limit your visibility when driving but can also grow in size over time. The changing temperatures from hot to cold can cause the windshield glass to expand in size, thus making visibility even more difficult.

More often than not, your insurance will cover the cost of replacing the windshield. Or if you are a DIYer, you can purchase a windshield repair kit and fix it on your own. However, we recommend hiring a professional as windshield visibility is crucial to your safety and the safety of others on the roads. Your insurance covering the costs will allow to spend more of your budget on other means.

Tint Windows

Tinting your car’s windows contributes to the overall mystique your DIY project is striving to accomplish. Window tint will begin to peel and fade over time. Replacing window tint as a DIYer can be attained without having to visit auto shops for astronomical prices. Using a couple of simple tools and techniques, window-tinting can be done as a DIYer on a budget. However, make sure to adhere to the laws of your state for window-tinting percentages.

Different states have the ability to create their own legislation to the percentage of window tint they allow. For example, New York State’s law for window tint prohibits tints of more than 30% for both front and back side windows. Meaning the tint must allow for more than 70% of light to reflect in. Be aware of these laws, as they vary from state to state.

Tires and Rims

It is recommended by automotive professionals that you replace your tires every three to five years. The lifespan of your tires varies based on weather conditions and amount of use. Generally, a tire with little to no tread on it must be replaced as it is a safety hazard to the driver. Old tires that lack tread will increase the chances of an accident as the tires will not grip the road as well as they are intended to.

Look for exclusive deals when on a budget when purchasing tires. The off-peak time when tires are at lower costs is the spring and fall. P Many places of business offer deals if you buy all four tires at once, in which case can save you more money on your budget.

Furthermore, rims with minor scratches on them can be fixed by the DIYer on a budget. Scuff marks are produced on car rims by rubbing up against curbs, thus the common term “curbed rims.” Be aware of your surroundings and parallel park carefully to decrease the chance of this happening. If your rims are “curbed” you can fix them on your own, with the help of the Auto Paint Depot.

When repairing rims, the same common process is conducted when painting the body. Repair your rims by cleaning the area first. Next, use sandpaper to buff out and smooth the minor scratches. Applying primer readies the rim to bond more effectively to the spray paint. Obtain the rim spray paint color of your choice and apply it to the rim. Follow the same amount of coats and time needed in between as if you were painting the body. Finally, apply clear coat to protect the paint layer and produce a gloss finish.

https://theautopaintdepot.com/shop/detailing-and-polishing/

The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Clear Coat

Posted on July 28, 2023June 20, 2024 by

Clear coat is a thin layer of plastic that protects your vehicle’s basecoat and provides a gloss finish. This multi-purpose product is vital to the aesthetic longevity of your vehicle. In order to take advantage of the full impact that clearcoat has to offer, one must obtain the knowledge. Below are the most commonly asked questions, general information, a how to use guide, and distinct types of clearcoat.

History of Clear Coat

Clear coat is your vehicle’s first line of defense against debris and UV radiation. It acts as a color enhancer, providing a gloss finish to your vehicle’s basecoat color. Before clear coat was invented, vehicle paint oxidized much faster and required more frequent repairs. The invention of clear coat in the 1970s allowed consumers to increase the longevity of the paint through protection and color enhancement. In its infancy, automotive paint was just a one-step process. As time went by and the level of paint technology increased, multi-step painting processes began to be used. Once perfected by the 1990s, clear coat has become a staple of the automotive industry.

What is Clear Coat Comprised of?

Clear coats are commonly produced as a solvent or water borne mixture. The blend of acrylic and polyurethane helps to resist environmental abrasion and UV damage to the vehicle’s basecoat color layer. These chemicals produce the transparent hue that clearcoat is known for. The transparent layer acts as a shield. It is chemically resistant to small forms of debris such as bird droppings and tree sap. The main effect of clear coat is its ability to resist the UV radiation from the sun.

What is the Purpose of Clear Coat?

The clear coat layer is used to protect your vehicle’s color coat layer from all forms of potential environmental damage. Its ability to resist UV radiation will prevent the color from fading and producing a white chalky finish. Clear coat can also protect against debris because it is the final layer and can be cleaned off without reaching your vehicle’s color coat layer. Think of clear coat as a shield for your vehicle’s paint job. Using clearcoat will help to increase the integrity of your vehicle’s paint job.

What is the Difference Between 1K and 2K Clear Coat?

1K clear coat uses one component, just the paint itself. 2K clear coat uses two components, the paint and hardener. 1K is more commonly used and is a straightforward process to apply. 2K requires a hardener to activate and thus leads to a more durable and professional finish. 2K costs more than 1K, due to the higher quality and two-step process it includes.

How Can Clear Coat Get Damaged?

Clear coats can be damaged in several ways. Damage can accumulate from the general wear and tear of owning a vehicle for many years. Scratches can arise from road chippings and other drivers. Long term clear coat damage occurs after many years of use and neglect. The sun’s UV rays can damage the clear coat layer, often leading to white crusty patches and a general faded finish.

How Do I Apply Clear coat?

Primarily, make sure the weather is optimal before you start your project. Do not paint with temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit or below 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, avoid painting in direct sunlight, use shade, and consider painting in the morning or at night for the best results.

Clear coat must be applied with two to three coats to ensure its effectiveness. Small areas of clear coat damage can be repaired using our half ounce and one ounce touch up bottles. These bottles include a brush to apply the clear coat with. Be sure to sand the area of damaged clear coat before applying the new layer.

Any larger scale repairs require the use of an aerosol can or even pint, quart, and gallon sizes. When spraying clear coat on a vehicle, be sure to be six to eight inches away from the body. This will allow for a smooth finish. When applying make even passes of paint that cover over each other by fifty percent. This prevents the possibility of uneven application.

The first coat must be a light coat. Thus, doing so will help to prevent cracks and foggy finishes. Wait fifteen minutes to apply the second coat. The second and third coats must be full passes and should be wet to the eye. Let fifteen minutes pass in between coats. Let the layers dry for one hour, this will allow the clear coat to properly dry and set.

Clear Coat Maintenance

Follow these steps to further increase the effectiveness and longevity of clear coat application to your vehicle. Wait to hand wash your vehicle one week after applying clear coat. This allotted time will allow the layer to harden and settle better. Be sure to use specifically formulated car wash products and soft micro-fiber cloths. Harsh chemicals and rough brushes can damage the clear coat layer.

Check out our automotive cleaning supplies for the best products we recommend for washing your vehicle. In the future, consider hand washing your car weekly to ensure your clear coat layer remains free of dirt, grim, and debris. Keeping debris on your vehicle for too long will damage the clear coat layer.

Additionally, we recommend waiting 30 to 45 days before waxing, buffing, and using carwashes for your vehicle. The pressure used in the above actions can damage the clear coat layer prematurely before it has time to harden and settle. Waiting a month allows the clear coat to harden properly so it can withstand waxing, buffing, and car wash pressure.

Car wax can be used to add another protective layer to protect the clear coat. Wait a month before waxing after application of clear coat. Waxing your vehicle every two to three months also helps to protect the paint job and further enhance its quality. Be sure to use non-abrasive formulas and polish carefully. Take a look at the car wax we offer on our website.

We at the Auto Paint Depot are proud to sell both 1K and 2K clear coats straight from our website!

https://theautopaintdepot.com/2k-clear-coat/

How to Protect and Repair Your Vehicle’s Paint from UV Damage: During the Summer Months

Posted on July 12, 2023June 20, 2024 by

The hot summer months can present a threat to the overall look of your vehicle’s paint over time. Just like our skin, the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage the paint job of a vehicle. As time goes by, the paint will begin to oxidize due to sun exposure. Sun damage leaves a vehicle looking faded and dull, with the formation of a white, crusty finish. The white residue is a result of the clear coat layer oxidizing. If left untreated, the paint will begin to peel off in small patches. Thankfully, sun damage can often be repaired. Our automotive paints and supplies here at the Auto Paint Depot can serve as a remedy to sun damage. However, the level of effectiveness is dependent on the amount of sun damage and the overall state of the vehicle. For repair tips, see the last paragraph of the post. In order to avoid this situation all together, closely follow these tips below.

Wash Your Vehicle Frequently– The buildup of debris such as dirt and grime can contribute to accelerating the oxidation process. We recommend washing your vehicle once a week. This will help to slow down the paint’s oxidation process. When washing your vehicle, make sure you are in a shaded area. Washing in direct sunlight will make the soap and water dry faster, leaving water spots. Seriously consider using a soap that is specifically formulated for washing a vehicle. Check out our website under the detailing and polishing section for what we use to wash our cars at the Auto Paint Depot. Be sure to use a soft cloth when cleaning; preferably micro-fiber cloths in which can be purchased directly from our website. During cleaning use gentle strokes to alleviate all forms of grime. A clever tip to get rid of stingy bird droppings and insects is to use salt-free seltzer. This will help wash away bird droppings with ease and will not damage your vehicle’s paint. Also, rinse your vehicle off thoroughly after cleaning. This will remove any chemicals that would speed up the paint’s oxidation process. Make this a part of your routine by cleaning your vehicle in this specific manner once a week.

Hand Dry- After you are complete with washing and rinsing your vehicle, you may begin to dry it off by hand. Use a soft, absorbent cloth or towel for the best results. In doing so, this will leave a clean finish free of streaks and water spots. Additionally, drying by hand better removes chemicals and minerals off of the vehicle that can lead to its paint fading faster. We have you covered for all of your car washing and maintenance needs with our extensive automotive supplies selection. Taking this small, but necessary step will prolong the overall look of your vehicle’s paint job. Our high-quality automotive products will help to keep your car looking clean and ready to fight off the sun this summer.

Wax- Car wax provides a protective layer onto your vehicle’s paint. The finished product produces a shiny finish that is so clean, its reflective. Wax produces an undeniably ascetically pleasing look, but also provides a critical function. In relation to preventing sun damage, wax is your best tool. The extra layer wax provides will act as a shield to UV rays from the sun, while also preventing the collection of debris. Think of this as a similar concept to applying sunscreen to your skin when spending a hot summer’s day at the beach. Wax is like sunscreen for vehicles! However, car wax does not need to be applied nearly as frequently as it does to our skin. We typically recommend waxing your vehicle once every three months to increase the longevity of the paint. Over-waxing your vehicle is not advised. This can lead to build-up of wax residue on the surface of your vehicle. Not sure what wax to buy? Take a look at the car waxes we offer today! Our high-quality car wax products are built to last. Be sure to follow the directions given by the product as there are many different types of waxes. For example, some types of wax are pastes, liquids, sprays, and wipe on/wipe off. Each one does the job, but the process is different. Take advantage of what waxing your car can do for your vehicle’s overall durability.

Use a Car Cover- As mentioned before in previous posts, a car cover can be a great investment when parking in shade is not an option for you. The best way to keep your vehicle out of the sun when not in use is to park in a garage. However, that privilege may not be available to you. Purchasing a car cover can act as a great substitute for providing the benefits of parking a vehicle in a garage. Be sure to note that a car cover will not completely block UV rays from your vehicle. Nevertheless, it is a much better alternative than simply parking in direct sunlight. Make sure your car cover is always dry, as mold can develop if left neglected to the elements. If the car cover is wet, moisture can get trapped inside and will lead to the development of mold.

Park in Shade- When you are out and about, look to park your car in shaded areas. If parking garages are not available to you, we suggest parking near trees as they can provide a good amount of shade from UV rays. Finding a shaded spot is not always easy, but taking the time to do so will help to protect your vehicle’s paint from fading. Also, be weary of bird droppings and tree sap that could possibly be on your car after parking under a tree for an extended period of time. Be certain to clean off the vehicle as soon as possible, to prevent paint damage.

If your vehicle already has sun damage, we at the Auto Paint Depot are here to help. Take a look at our extensive selection of automotive paint ready to match any vehicle dating back to 1940! We have all the products you need to restore your vehicle back to looking “good as new.” All you need to repair sun damage is an automotive clay bar, 1500 grit sandpaper, clear coat, electric buffer with a wet orbital buffing pad, buffing compound, and car wax. First use the clay bar to clean the faded service. Use sandpaper to remove the damaged clear coat layer and then begin applying the new layer of clear coat. It it recommended to apply three layers of clear coat. Let each layer dry before applying the next coat. After letting the area dry and stabilize for 24 hours, apply buffing compound to the electric buffer. Next, begin to carefully polish the new layer with the buffing compound in circular motions. Lastly, protect your new and improved finish with car wax. All of these products can be found on our website. Results may vary based on the overall condition of your vehicle and the amount of sun damage. Good luck with your project!

https://theautopaintdepot.com/2k-clear-coat/

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How to Repair Different Types of Scratches: with products from the Auto Paint Depot

Revamp Your Car While Also on a Budget: DIY Tips and Tricks for the Car Enthusiast from the Auto Paint Depot

The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Clear Coat

How to Protect and Repair Your Vehicle’s Paint from UV Damage: During the Summer Months