True car lovers keep on giving a new and fresh look to their cars. The change in the color of the car is nothing less than a fashion statement for many. Painting a car requires certain skills but if you are willing to do it on your own, the key lies in the preparation. Prepping a car for painting requires proper workspace, tools, and knowledge. There may be varied reasons one decides to change the color like:
- To increase the resale value
- Current color has faded
- Too many scratches
- Auto-restoration
- Personal taste
- Customized paint job to show-off
Whatever the purpose may be, auto paint preparation is required. Make up your mind on the color of the paint before proceeding further.
The Process
Whether you take the car to the professional or desire to paint it by yourself; there are certain steps that remain the same. The application of the must be done cautiously such that the car finishes with a perfect color shade. The primary functions that one has to perform on the car include:
- Cleaning
- Cutting
- Sanding
- Priming
- Applying the coats
There is a certain time that the whole process will take and it totally depends on the weather on the particular day as well as the number of paint coats you intend to apply. The color of the paint plays an important role in the amount of curing time.
Have You Got Enough Space And Tools?
The process becomes simpler when you have sufficient workspace and required tools at your disposal. Whenever you plan to prepare a car for paint, make sure there is sufficient lighting and ventilation is available. The different tasks require space around the car and to check the right shades; good lighting is of prime importance. The tools are simple manageable things that are easily available in the market. All one needs is:
- Right paint and primer
- Tested Paint spray gun
- Proper sandpaper
- Small brushes and rags
- Dust Masks
- Gloves
- Fully covered attire
There are plenty of paints and primers available and one should be aware of the one they want to use as they prep a car for painting properly. There are different solvents, fumes and chemicals and one should choose vigilantly. The best way is to ask the professionals in case of any confusion.