There’s a lot more to a car paint job than the vehicle’s appearance. There is a protective aspect to the paint that helps to extend the life of the car’s body.
There is no set recommendation for routine automotive paint finishing, nor is there any way of predicting when your vehicle will need it. It could be a matter of a few months, or it could take years. However, there are signs you can look for that tell you when your car needs attention. Take your vehicle to a reputable car paint shop if you notice any of the following.
1. Peeling
If you notice peeling from your vehicle’s body, it is not the paint itself but the clear coating. This is a protective layer applied over the top of the paint that gives the vehicle its shine and protects it from the elements. If the clear coat gets rubbed away completely, you may notice that the car body becomes duller. The paint itself will start to wear away once the clear coating is completely gone.
2. Fading
Fading is different from the dullness that can occur from the disintegration of the clear coating. While dullness just means that your car is no longer shiny, fading refers to an actual change in the color of your vehicle. This can happen if dirt builds up and wears away the paint, if the car is exposed to extreme cold or excessive sun, or it may just happen with time. One way to prevent fading and protect the paint is to have your car regularly washed and waxed.
3. Scratches
Scratches to your car’s paint job can occur due to parking lot mishaps, collisions, or deliberate acts of vandalism. Not only are they unsightly on their own, but they can also lead to further damage. If the scratches are superficial, it may be possible to simply buff them out. However, repainting may be your only option if the scratches extend too deep for this to be practical.
4. Rust
Rust can be a consequence of scratches on your vehicle. Scratches allow corrosive elements, such as water and salt, to make direct contact with your vehicle’s exterior and start slowly disintegrating it. Salt used to melt ice on the road can get kicked up on your undercarriage from your tires as you drive during the winter. Humidity can also make your car vulnerable to rust. It is important to wipe down the underside of your car often to prevent salt and other corrosive elements from building up. The deterioration can develop quickly, and before long you may have holes in your vehicle body.
5. Dents and Dings
Damage to your car body can happen because of severe weather or because of an impact from an object. In many cases, the only way to fix these dents and dings is by hammering and smoothing them after first sanding. Repainting takes place after all these steps are complete.
Trusted Professionals for Car Paint Jobs
Automotive paint finishing is a delicate job that should only be handled by experts. For over 40 years, Tachoir Auto Body has been providing quality repairs, including painting, on all makes and models. Schedule an Appointment for painting and finishing at our Clairton location.
