Has your ride’s paint job started to look a little worse for wear- a little faster than you expected?
While auto paint helps our cars look their best, it has a far greater purpose than just aesthetics. Car paint protects the vehicle’s frame from corrosion and other forms of damage that can affect the structural integrity of the entire unit. Premature paint wear and tear can lead to serious long term issues, making it essential to stay on top of and prevent wherever possible.
At Central Alberta Paint & Supplies (CAPS), we know just how important it is to maintain your paint job, both to keep your car looking good and to keep its overall longevity for the future. Below, we’ll take a look at some of the most common causes of premature wear and tear on car paint and tips on how to protect against them. Read on to learn more!
Sun Exposure
One of the most significant factors that can cause paint to become discoloured or damaged is excessive sun exposure. Just like UV rays damage our skin, long-term exposure breaks down the chemical bonds between paint molecules, causing the colour to lose its lustre and prominence over time, as well as become brittle and susceptible to cracking.
To avoid this kind of damage, try to park in the shade (or in your garage) whenever possible, regularly wax your vehicle to offer a protective layer to your vehicle’s surface, and use specialized UV protection products as instructed to maintain your car’s finish.
Environmental Factors
Environmental contaminants are another factor that can aggressively attack your car’s paint job. Acid rain, bird droppings, tree sap, pollution, and exposure to chemicals incidentally (i.e. accidentally overfilling on gas) can erode the protective finish on paint jobs and lead to staining and etching if they sit too long. Avoid this damage by consistently washing your vehicle and by spot cleaning as soon as possible whenever necessary.
Note: choose gentle cleaners and apply with a soft microfibre cloth to avoid scratching or additional forms of damage/
Road Debris and Gravel
Road debris such as gravel, rocks, salt, and other chemicals applied during the winter can damage paint, slowly eating away and allowing corrosion to seep into the metal of your car frame. Corrosion is highly dangerous to the longevity of your vehicle and can lead to expensive repairs if left undetected or untreated for long periods of time. To avoid corrosion, as well as the aesthetic damage caused by scratches and chips, invest in protective measures like mud flaps applying a protective film (sometimes called a clear bra) to the front of your vehicle.
Temperature Extremes
It’s no secret that Canada’s varying climate conditions mean Albertans face bigger temperature changes season after season. These temperature fluctuations can cause the paint to expand and contract, leading to cracks and other damage. While it can be difficult to combat temperatures holistically, there are a few things you can do to mitigate harm, such as storing your vehicle in a garage or covered space where possible and investing in quality paint should you need to do any touch-ups or repairs.
Improper Washing/Care Techniques
As mentioned above, using the wrong cleaning products and application tools can cause significant damage. Harsh brushes, dirty sponges, and abrasive cleaners can scratch and wear down the paint, leading to the risk of corrosion, aesthetic damage and more. Avoid this by using soft clothes and sponges specifically designed for cars, using pH-balanced, auto-specific cleaners, and, when hand washing, be mindful of putting your sponge back in soapy water that may become filled with grit and grime.
Need Help Keeping Your Paint Looking Its Best?
CAPS has one of the most robust selections of automotive paint you’ll find across Western Canada, both in-store at our Edmonton and Red Deer locations and online. Contact us today to learn more and look for your specific paint code here!
Understanding and addressing the common culprits of premature wear and tear on car paint is crucial for maintaining your vehicle’s appearance and value. At CAPS (Central Alberta Paint Supply), we provide high-quality automotive paints and protective products to help you keep your car looking its best. By taking preventive measures and using the right products, you can extend the life of your car’s paint and enjoy a pristine finish for years to come. Visit us today to explore our range of automotive care solutions and get expert advice tailored to your needs.