Understanding The Importance Of Car Clear Coat
Author : Raj Dhote | Published On : 22 Mar 2024
What is Clear Coat?
A clear coat is the top and protective clear layer that is applied over the vehicle paint during the manufacturing painting process or during a refinish painting process. Clear coats protect the color coat or paint from elements like the sun, acid rain, bird droppings and other environmental factors that can damage paint over time. Modern automotive clear coats are made from either polyurethane or acrylic resin that provide a durable glass-like finish when fully cured.
Purpose of Clear Coat
Protection from UV Rays- Car Clear Coat contain UV protectants that shield the color coat from the sun's damaging ultraviolet rays. UV damage is one of the leading causes of paint oxidation and fading over the years. The clear coat acts as a protective barrier.
Protection from Other Elements- Aside from UV rays, clear coats also protects vehicle paint from damage from acid rain, tree sap, bird droppings and other elements. These can damage paint if left unchecked. The clear coat layer safeguards the color coat.
Glossy Smooth Finish- When applied and polished properly, a clear coat creates a long-lasting glossy and smooth surface finish on a vehicle's exterior paint job. It fills in minor paint imperfections for an enhanced showroom shine.
Improved Durability- Modern automotive clear coats are formulated to be extremely durable and resistant to chipping and cracking. This protection enhances the longevity and life of the overall paint job compared to paint without a clear coat.
Difference in Clear Coat Types
There are generally two main types of clear coats used in automotive paint applications:
Polyurethane Clear Coat- Considered the industry standard, polyurethane clear coats are highly durable and produce a long-lasting glossy finish. They have excellent flexibility and can stretch without cracking. However, they are more expensive than acrylic options.
Acrylic Clear Coat- Acrylic clear coats are a more budget-friendly alternative that still provides adequate protection. While not as durable as polyurethane types, modern acrylic clear coats have improved flexability. They tend to chip or crack more easily over long-term.
Importance of a Proper Clear Coat Application
Having a high quality clear coat is important, but the application method is equally vital to achieving maximum protection and a flawless finish. An experienced auto body technician should precisely follow OEM specifications for:
- Surface Preparation - All surfaces must be clean, smooth and properly sanded/etched to allow for proper adhesion.
- Application Method - Following the correct spray pattern, overlapping coats and letting each coat fully flash/cure is crucial.
- Drying Time - Taking the necessary time between coats to fully dry and cure ensures no imperfections form.
- Polishing - Using the proper polishing techniques leaves a smooth, swirl-free finish that enhances gloss and durability.
Signs Clear Coat is Failing
Over time, even the hardiest clear coats will eventually show signs of wear. Some clear indications repair may be needed include:
- Fading, Dullness or Loss of Shine - UV damage degrades clear coats gloss and color intensity.
- Small Cracks or Swirls - Formation of fine cracks or swirls on the clear coat surface from weathering.
- Flaking or Peeling - Larger sections of clear coat detach from the paint under surface.
- Oxidation/Chalking - The clear begins to turn hazy white from sun/elements breaking down resins.
- Increased Susceptibility to Damage - The compromised clear coat has reduced ability to protect underlying paint.
When any of these symptoms appear, having the clear coat properly refurbished by a professional is recommended to prevent further deterioration. A paint correction/clear coat restoration can bring back a like-new shine.
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