Auto Spray Painting: Four Fundamental Guidelines for a Durable Coating

If your vehicle is looking dull, you should think about spray painting the body panels. In general, this practice is the best approach to revamping an old car or even simply changing the colour. Under normal circumstances, you should choose a professional for the spray painting project. A good technician will create a beautiful and durable coating. However, if you have an interest in the task and plenty of time, you can paint your vehicle. Here are some tips for creating a long-lasting auto coating through spray painting.

Consider the Environment

You should choose the right workspace for working on your vehicle. If the environment is dirty, there might be contamination during the spray painting process. This could lead to the formation of an unstable coat. The impurities will make the layer more susceptible to peeling. Therefore, choose a good spot for your work. Also, consider the weather conditions if you intend to work in an exposed place. Avoid spray painting in overly hot, cold or humid conditions.

Conduct Body Panel Repairs

It is advisable to conduct repairs before spray painting the auto body panels. Irregularities in the sheet metal could cause an inconsistency in the appearance of the painted coat. Moreover, the damaged areas could act as starting points for peeling. You can avoid this by removing dents before beginning the work. Also, repair any tears and holes in the body panels. These forms of damage might require light welding or filling.

Sand the Vehicle Surfaces

Sanding is an essential process during auto painting work. This procedure is designed for removing stubborn impurities from the sheet metal. For instance, it is not uncommon for old vehicles to have experienced corrosion. The rust deposits will affect the adhesion of paint to the surfaces. Sanding will eliminate the oxides and reveal a clean surface for painting. If the rust is left in place, you will notice bubbling and peeling as the rust takes over again.

Clean and Prime the Panels

You should plan on cleaning the surfaces of the vehicle after sanding. The most effective method for eliminating all impurities before using any coating is wiping down using a simple cloth and mineral spirit. This will eliminate oily residues and dust particles. Then, plan on priming before spray painting. The primer is intended to prepare the best surface for paint adhesion. For the best results, you should opt for a self-etching and rust-resistant primer.

If you are not confident in your spray painting skills, consult an auto body specialist. 


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