Blog Post

3 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Paint Your Own Car

  • By Tony Mers
  • •
  • 02 Feb, 2021
  • •

As Americans, we tend to love our cars like the solid body metal children that we treat them as. From buying air fresheners to cozy steering wheel covers, sometimes we end up cherishing our cars just like our own pets or children. Many times this means getting routine maintenance done at a dealership or taking in a damaged car for auto body repair services. Whatever the case, it's important to get your car worked on by a licensed professional.

This is no less true when it comes to touching up the paint on your car or repairing the paint job after hail damage or some other natural disaster. While it may seem like you should be able to paint your car yourself, nothing could be further from the truth. You can certainly paint your bedroom or bathroom, but painting an automobile requires skills only found at an auto paint shop.

You should bring your car to an auto paint shop so it looks nice and neat. You don't have to get racing stripes or bright colors to complete a quality paint job, but painting a car is a skill that should not be taken lightly. Let's see why it's a whole different animal to paint a car and why you should definitely pay for the service.

Most Paint Jobs Follow Auto Body Work

It's rare that people change their car's paint color on a whim. It is certainly done, and there is certainly a car paint shop around you that would be glad to indulge your whims, but many times painting a car comes after auto body work. Auto body work almost always comes after an accident, but in fact there are four main causes of auto body damage: weather, negligence, fender benders, and high-speed collisions.

You'll want to make sure that the place where your auto body work is done is also an auto paint shop or can recommend one. Only they will be able to apply paint in the layers and coatings that will work for your unique situation.

You Can't Just Use a Brush

In order to apply auto paint, you need to use special, and expensive, primers and let them sit in a garage. Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, these may be covered by another cover of sealant or additional primer. Since you're trying to match the original paint color of your vehicle and not have any bad matches, you have to be delicate, so you can't use a brush. Most often what is used is a sprayer device that allows for a broad, smooth, and even coating that looks akin to factory paint.

The Fumes Can Be Toxic

If you observe the inner workings of an auto paint shop, you'll notice that most of the professionals there are wearing ventilator masks. This is because inhaling auto paint can be incredibly hazardous and detrimental to your health. You're better off hiring a professional to delicately paint your cherished car instead.

Hire an auto paint shop to repaint your car following an accident or other damage-inducing situation. While painting your car may seem like a DIY task, you will be much happier with the results your local auto paint shop can provide you instead.

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Common Misconceptions About Car Paint Jobs

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Many people believe that paint jobs for your car can do more harm than good. While paint jobs can be a costly investment, it’s because they’re performed by specialists who work with precision and care to ensure long-lasting benefits.

Showcase your car in style with a fresh new coat of paint that protects and glistens. Don’t feel discouraged by rumors; instead, learn more about the common misconceptions about car paint jobs.

All Car Paints Are the Same

Car paint jobs differ based on the vehicle and the car owner’s preferences. Owners can choose from a selection of paints that offer varying levels of durability, gloss, and protection. Communicate with a restoration specialist about what kind of paint job you're looking for, and they’ll provide you with the coat you need.

Newer Cars Don't Need Paint Protection

When car owners purchase a new car, they may believe their vehicle is safe from damage for several years. However, new cars are also susceptible to UV rays, bird droppings, and road debris. A protective coat or wax could keep your car looking just as new as when you first received it.

Paint Chips Are Just a Cosmetic Issue

Another common misconception about car paint jobs is that paint chipping won’t cause long-term damage to the car’s structure. However, these chips expose your car to the elements, which may lead your vehicle to experience rust and corrosion from moisture. Protect the integrity of your car and touch up on your paint before it leads to costly repairs.

All Paint Colors Fade at the Same Rate

Different colors fade at various rates depending on their hue and tone. Darker shades like reds and blacks absorb more UV rays, which makes them more susceptible to damage. If you’re looking for a paint job that meets your long-term expectations, consider visiting local auto paint shops  that offer lighter colors.

Custom Paint Jobs Are Always Expensive

Custom paint job pricing depends on the complexity of the design and the materials used to conduct the job. These selections offer a variety of choices for you to plan out a budget for your custom paint job. Look for styles that highlight your preferences without breaking the bank.

Debunk these myths by reaching out to your local body shop specialists. Our restoration specialists at River North provide a pristine look to your car with an extra layer of security. Schedule a car paint job appointment to start driving in style.

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