UV damage Archives - The Auto Paint Depot

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.

The Ultimate Guide to Automotive Paint Finishes

Posted on August 1, 2023 by

An In-Depth Guide to Choosing the Right Finish for Your Vehicle

Why Gloss Reigns Supreme

Gloss finishes have long been the hallmark of automotive elegance. This type of finish delivers a classic look that car enthusiasts have cherished for decades. The reflection produced by gloss paints under sunlight is clean and sharp, ensuring that vehicles present a radiant appearance, shimmering with clarity and brilliance.

Additionally, gloss doesn’t just add to the aesthetics but also ensures durability. These finishes are known for their robust protective qualities against environmental elements like UV rays, rain, and dust. At The Auto Paint Depot, our meticulously crafted range of gloss finishes is designed to combine both style and substance, making sure cars look brand new and stay protected longer.

Embracing the Understated Elegance of Matte

In recent years, matte paint finishes have surged in popularity, distinguishing vehicles with an understated, yet powerful presence. The non-reflective nature of matte grants cars a distinctive look, creating an aura of elegance and modern sophistication. For many, matte is the embodiment of a fresh and contemporary automotive style, devoid of the typical shine most vehicles exhibit.

However, this elegance comes with its set of challenges. Matte finishes demand careful maintenance, as blemishes or imperfections can be more pronounced. To counter this, The Auto Paint Depot offers a premium range of matte finishes, ensuring uniformity and top-tier quality. For the discerning car owner who desires subtlety over shine, matte finishes from our collection promise unmatched beauty.

Shimmering Beauty on Wheels

When vehicles glisten with a unique depth under the sun, there’s a high likelihood they’re adorned with a metallic finish. The integration of tiny metal flakes in the paint gives vehicles a rich and dynamic appearance, combining the traditional shine of gloss with the mystique of shimmering particles. It’s this blend that offers cars a multi-dimensional look, captivating at every angle.

Beyond the visual charm, metallic finishes are also practical. The reflective metal flakes can effectively mask minor scratches or dings, making wear and tear less noticeable. For those who want their vehicles to stand out while also benefiting from this practical advantage, The Auto Paint Depot’s collection of metallic paints offers diverse choices that mesmerize and protect.

Pearlescent Finishes: When Cars Meet Opulence

Pearlescent paints are the epitome of automotive extravagance. These finishes exude luxury, setting vehicles apart in a most spectacular way. Unlike conventional paints, pearlescent varieties contain ceramic crystals that interact differently with light. Depending on one’s perspective, a pearlescent-coated car can display a spectrum of colors, offering a visual treat that’s both dynamic and exquisite.

The true magic of pearlescent finishes lies in their ability to morph and change. As light conditions vary and as observers move, the paint reveals different hues, akin to the shimmer of a pearl. At The Auto Paint Depot, our selection of pearlescent finishes is the intersection of art and engineering. For those with a penchant for luxury and a desire for their vehicles to be genuine showstoppers, our range offers nothing short of automotive opulence.

Clear Coats: The Invisible Shield of Brilliance

Often underrated but immensely crucial, clear coats are the unsung heroes of automotive paint finishes. Acting as a transparent armor, they envelop the chosen paint, safeguarding it from potential damage. The significance of a clear coat is evident in its dual functionality: it enhances the depth and vibrancy of the underlying paint while also offering a robust protective shield against environmental challenges like UV rays and pollutants.

While many might be swayed primarily by color choices, the decision on the clear coat should never be an afterthought. A high-grade clear coat doesn’t just maintain the vehicle’s aesthetic appeal, it prolongs it. Whether you’re gravitating towards a matte, metallic, or gloss finish, The Auto Paint Depot’s collection of top-tier clear coats ensures your vehicle remains as captivating as the day it was painted.

Crafting Your Car’s Personality

The journey of selecting the perfect paint finish is multifaceted. It’s more than just picking a color or sheen; it’s a reflection of the owner’s personality and preferences. The paint finish on a car can communicate elegance, ruggedness, subtlety, or flamboyance. But beyond personal aesthetics, practical considerations come into play, such as the vehicle’s primary use, local climate, and frequency of maintenance.

At The Auto Paint Depot, we understand that such decisions can be overwhelming. That’s why we’re dedicated to guiding our clients through every step of this colorful voyage. Our experts are on hand to offer insights, answer queries, and provide recommendations. So, whether you’re looking for a finish that makes a bold statement or one that exudes understated grace, we ensure your vehicle is not only visually appealing but also primed to brave the elements and stand the test of time.

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!