Painting a car is no easy feat. Giving your car a fresh paint job should typically be left to professionals. Even a simple touch-up could be disastrous without the right automotive paint, tools, and knowledge. Whether you go DIY or hit your local body shop, take some time to learn about the auto paint process.
Car paint is very different from other types of paint. The process is also unique. Painting a car often requires a paint gun, sanding, the application of a base coat, new paint, and a clear coat. It also requires spray guns, an applicator, masking tape, filler, and much more. If you are looking to do a lower quality job, you may use spray paint and enamel paint, but the results won't be nearly as satisfying as a professional job.
The Quick and Dirty on Automotive Painting
Car painting can also involve sandpaper, polish, solvent, acrylic enamel, acrylic lacquer, and other materials that untrained folks could really damage their rides with. Even simple blemishes require expert care if you want everything even. Paint mishaps can change the way your car looks, and contaminants can get into paint that isn't properly prepped and taken care of.
If you want a top-quality repaint, then stay away from the spray cans. There's touch-up paint for minor scratches, but improper application could be costly. Waxing your topcoat could give you the new look you're searching for if you can't afford a quality paint job at the moment. There are even paint pens for minor scratches.
The bottom line is, car painting is an entire profession and is not to be trifled with. Different folks have different standards for the quality of their car's paint, but it's better to stay on the safe side when dealing with larger areas. Top-notch spray jobs can be pricey, but if you value your current paint color or want something new that looks natural, pro is always the way to go. If you're going the DIY route, please take your time studying the process or risk a funky-looking car.
