In case you didn’t know, the process of paint correction involves removing imperfections in the clear coat (or finish) and ‘ restoring ‘ them to a better condition than the original one. A few important steps (which we will describe in detail a bit later) include skilled paint correction.
- Cleaning and completely removing debris
- Wet sanding or leveling
- Waxing and Polishing
- Sealing the Paint
Some of the common imperfections that lead to paint correction include:
Spider webbing: That is the slang term for the swirl marks embedded in the clear paint coat. It is usually the direct result of circular washing with abrasive towels or soaps at variable speed, or frequently using automated car washes.
Fine scratches: Scratches can occur for several reasons – from that “asshat” who keyed your car, to excessive exposure to blowing sand and wind.
Water spots: While water spots are believed to be merely a cosmetic nuisance, they may result in damage due to frequent exposure to direct sunlight. At the clear coat, water that contains salt or other forms of road grime that gradually eat away. Add prolonged exposure to direct sunlight–and you have some serious paint damage coming close.
Animal crap: Those darn birds, squirrels, and other critters don’t know where their waste should be released. While washing animal droppings off your car is a major inconvenience, failure to do so quickly can cause damage to the clear coat; due to acids eating away in animal waste.
There are some paint imperfections that can be filled with automotive waxes or sealants for painting – but basically, it is simply putting duct tape on an open wound. Paint correction is required to fix these imperfections in the paint.
When is Paint Correction Necessary?
When a car is washed by hand or an automatic car wash, the idea is to apply soap (which helps cut it into the powdered dirt), rub it on the surface (to break up the dirt) and then move to another area. Which happens when you are in the same place rubbing dirt? The answer is simple; dirt is ground into the surface or the clear coat causes stains–even when you’re using a microfibre towel.
The same concept applies to wax cars. While the first step is to wash a car, not every debris is removed. In fact, drying the vehicle with a terry towel often leaves a jagged-edged, microscopic residue. When using the wax-on / wax-off process (just like in the Karate Kid movie in the ’80s), you just grind those loose particles into the protective layer of the paint.
The only way to fix the scratches and swirl marks ground into the transparent coat of paint is through the correction of the color.
At Apollo Auto Spa, we have one mission and one mission only: to protect your vehicle. Based in Walnut Creek, CA in a well-laid out 2000 sqft shop right off the 680 freeway. With great attention to detail, we protect your entire vehicle from bumper to bumper including the paint, plastics, glass, wheels, the interior and even the undercarriage. We have 3 distinct services: auto detailing and paint correction, paint coating and clear bra (PPF). The primary goals of our coatings is protection from the elements and reducing maintenance and time spent in making your vehicle look beautiful. Our clear bra (PPF) is an incredible solution for preventing rock chips and other larger debris. We are the best exterior car detailing service offering luxury services to all vehicles in Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill and the surrounding communities. Give us a call for our top certified ceramic pro services and you’ll be treated professionally and with our award-winning customer service.
