What Are the Different Types of Auto Paint

Automobiles have evolved over the years regarding their fabrication and the types of paint used to create that smooth finish we have come to know and love. Here is a list of the four different types of auto paint, so you can better understand how they work on various vehicles.

Water-Based

Of all the different styles of paint you can use on your automobiles, this one is the newest on the market. The popularity of this paint is highly sought after for its performance and ease of use. Most people who enjoy working on DIY auto projects at home know that water-based paints are the best for one-person operations. They only lack durability, as a known weakness of water-based auto paint is deterioration, so they require a thick clear coat on top after application.

Acrylic Lacquer

This exceptional category of auto paint has been used to color and finish cars in the U.S. since the 1950s. It goes on quickly and easily and has a high gloss, so you’ll be riding in style before you know it. Unfortunately, because it’s an older style of paint, it wasn’t designed for U.V. resistance, so it fades faster than all the rest. But, if you like working on your car and don’t mind putting on a few coats every other year, this might be the solution you’re looking for.

Acrylic Enamel

People flock to this style of automobile paint because of its sleek shine and natural rock-hard coating. Of all the paint styles, this one dries the hardest, making the outer shell almost impenetrable. This paint is a great choice for your vehicle, though it will take a lot of work to do yourself. The finish requires heating to a certain degree, so it will have to be either dried with a heat gun or baked in a hot room.

Acrylic Urethane

Finally, this paint is the universal go-to for many because it looks great and wears well. It’s super resistant to the elements and will last for years if treated well. It does cure quickly, so you’ll need to use it as soon as you purchase. Otherwise, you might have different results. This type of auto paint is even more appealing because it’s non-toxic, so you can feel at ease when applying it.

All these paints are great options for your vehicles, but the choice requires some thought, as everyone has different needs and looks they want to achieve. Some are made for ease of use but require more upkeep. Others are challenging to apply and require a professional to do the job, but they are worth it as they last a long time and look great. If you want a professional paint job for your vehicle, book an appointment with our car paint shop in Chicago, where you’ll receive high-quality service at a competitive price. You’re sure to have a great finish on your ride, whichever type of auto paint you choose.