If you’re planning on painting your vehicle this summer, it’s important to know how to set yourself (and your car!) up for success. At Central Alberta Paint & Supplies (CAPS), we’re proud to help car owners, auto enthusiasts and everyone in between create their perfect finish. We feature one of Western Canada’s largest online and in-store inventories of auto repair parts and paint supplies and are here to help you get the results you need, whether you’re looking at small patch-ups or complete overhauls.
Below, we’ll cover some of the most common mistakes people make when using epoxy primers for vehicles. Read on to learn more!
Improper Surface Preparation
Proper surface prep is essential to ensuring your primer efficiently adheres to the vehicle’s surface. Unfortunately, many DIYers rush this step or forgo it altogether. Failure to properly prepare may leave residual dirt, grease, or oil on the surface, which does not allow the primer to adhere properly. Other issues, like untreated rust or corrosion, also prevent the paint from performing adequately.
To avoid these pitfalls, always take the time to thoroughly clean your surface, using an approved degreaser to remove all foreign contaminants. Then, dry with a gentle cloth for a smooth, adhering surface.
Incorrect Mixing Ratios
Epoxy primer usually comes in two parts: resin and hardener, both of which play a key role in ensuring the primer can perform as intended and bond properly. Mixing these components in the correct ratio is essential for product performance, and failure to do so can result in the primer failing to bond properly and poor long-term adhesion. Poorly mixed primers can also leave parts of the formula uncured entirely, resulting in a mess and weak performance. To avoid this, always mix in accordance with manufacturer instructions and use precise measuring tools to ensure proper rations and a consistent mixture.
Ignoring Environmental Conditions
It can be tempting to rush into applying your primer, but if you fail to account for the weather, you could find yourself facing the need for reapplication or even costlier fixes. Extreme heat or cold can drastically affect the curing process, with cold slowing it down and heat causing the primer to cure too quickly, leading to cracks and a brittle finish. High humidity can also lead to issues by weakening the epoxy’s bond and lead to paint failure down the road. Always check environmental conditions prior to applying, and wherever possible, try to apply in an indoor (but well-ventilated) space that provides more stable conditions or delay until the weather is more cooperative.
Incorrect Application Technique
Just like any form of auto paint, epoxy most be applied correctly for the primer to achieve a smooth, durable finish. Applying layers that are too thick or thin or using the wrong tools will result in poor results that may lead to uneven surfaces, or poor coverage that leaves part of your metal exposed.
Using spray gun application and applying thin, even coats while allowing for drying time between coats are a great way to avoid such issues and to ensure a smooth, even, finish.
Skipping the Induction Time
If you’re hoping to get your paint job done ASAP, it’s tempting to rush in and start applying your primer right away. The problem is, epoxy requires a chemical reaction to function properly and if you rush the induction process, you’ll find that your coating has a hard time curing and adhering to your vehicle surface
Epoxy primers often require an induction time, a period after mixing during which the chemicals react before application. Skipping this step can lead to problems with the primer’s performance. Always allow your primer to rest as long as the manufacturer states before applying, and spot test to ensure suitable viscosity before spraying.
Primed For Success with CAPS
At CAPS, we know how important it is to have access to the right tools and resources when painting your vehicle. View our inventory of epoxy and paint supplies here, and contact us today to learn more!