Paint Correction
Automotive paint correction is the process of repairing and restoring the paint finish to its original condition.
This process is often necessary when the vehicle’s paint has suffered damage or defects, such as scratches, swirl marks, oxidation, or other imperfections.
Automotive paint correction is a meticulous process that requires skill and the right equipment. Choose a professional company like SolutionWorks to ensure the best results.
Here are key steps involved in automotive paint correction:
Inspection
Begin by thoroughly inspecting the vehicle’s paintwork to identify the extent and type of damage or imperfections. This can include scratches, paint chips, swirl marks, water spots, oxidation, and more.
Wash and Decontaminate
Wash the vehicle’s exterior to remove dirt and contaminants that may be on the surface. Decontamination may involve using clay bars or iron removers to get rid of embedded contaminants.
Paint Thickness Measurement
Measure the thickness of the paint layers. This helps determine how much material is available for correction and ensures that it is safe to proceed without damaging the clear coat.
Scratch and Chip Repair
Address any deep scratches or paint chips by using touch-up paint or fillers that match the vehicle’s color.
Paint Correction
Remove surface imperfections such as swirl marks, light scratches, and oxidation. This is typically done through a series of polishing and buffing steps using specialized tools and compounds.
Compounding
Begin with a cutting compound, which is more abrasive and helps remove deeper imperfections.
Polishing
After compounding, switch to a less abrasive polishing compound to further refine the finish and achieve a high level of gloss.
Finishing
Add a fine finishing polish to enhance the shine and smoothness of the paint surface. This step is crucial for achieving a mirror-like finish.
Sealant or Wax Application
Apply a paint sealant or wax to protect the freshly corrected paint and provide a protective layer against environmental elements.
Final Inspection
Carefully inspect the vehicle’s paintwork under various lighting conditions to ensure that all imperfections have been corrected and the finish is flawless.
Detailing
After paint correction, the vehicle’s entire exterior is detailed, which includes cleaning and dressing trim, glass, wheels, and tires.