Those who have considered applying car body paint themselves need to first know about what’s out there. You might be trying to do something small like fix up a scratch. You might, on the other hand, be pursuing a more ambitious path of a full paint job on a new car you’re building or modifying. In any case, paint knowledge is key, and the team at elitepaints.co.uk are ready to assist.
In paint terms, there are four main types:
- Acrylic enamel
- Acrylic urethane
- Acrylic lacquer
- Water-based
Paint 1: Acrylic Enamel
Though not as old as their lacquer cousins (see below), acrylic enamel paints are among the most established and long-used paint types. If you’re looking for a paint with a highly durable finish, then this is the stuff. Their quality and great finish lead many professional shops to use this kind of paint. This doesn’t mean, however, that just anyone can. The main downside to acrylic enamel is that it’s infamously tricky to apply well. If you feel confident about your skills and experience with painting, then acrylic enamel is a good way to go.
Paint 2: Acrylic Urethane
When you want something that delivers advantages of different paint types, and is relatively easy to apply (especially compared to acrylic enamel) then look to acrylic urethane. If you’re less confident about your paint job, then acrylic urethane is a good tool to help you along. It applies more easily than acrylic enamel, while offering great protection and great shine. One drawback with these, however, is that they tend to be expensive. Those on a budget who want to buy car touch up paint online, therefore, may not fit them into their price plan.
Paint 3: Acrylic Lacquer
This one should take you back. Acrylic lacquer paints are no longer used on cars, and there are even some places where it has become illegal. It was first developed back in the 1950s. It was marked in the beginning for fast drying time. Its low costs meant it was widely applied. Later, however, the paint was discontinued after safety concerns for workers using the paints, and as superior alternatives both entered the market and became more economical.
Acrylic lacquer is still useful if you own a classic car, because it’s likely that the original paint job was done using this paint. It is more susceptible to UV fading and damage from exterior chemicals.
Paint 4: Water-based
These are a relatively new invention in the world of car body paint. Water-based car body paint is extremely easy to apply, but does require an extra layer of clear urethane over the top to protect it properly. Since they’re new, you also may have trouble finding the exact colour you want.
Buy Touch Up Paint Online
Even a cursory glance at the web can reveal myriad options when it comes to car body paint. The above paints are the four main types, but delivery methods, DIY kits, touch up pens and other devices are all part of richer and wider tapestry. In the end, you have to choose the right paint and application gear that suits your current skill level, confidence level and the size and type of job you’re trying to do. You can always ask for our help here at elitepaints.co.uk.
