Our Auto Painting Process
at Kelowna Auto Body & Glass
Looking for automotive painting in the Kelowna or West Kelowna area? Bring your vehicle to Kelowna Autobody & Glass and get it professionally painted by our top technicians. Whether you require panels painted, the whole vehicle painted or it’s part of a collision repair, we have experienced painters ready to make your vehicle shine. Having your vehicle professionally painted ensures your vehicle looks its best and ensures it remains rust free for years to come. If your vehicle’s paint is looking a little worse for wear, bring it to Kelowna Auto Body & Glass and give it a whole new look today!
1
Fix Rust, Dents & Trim
We sand down the smaller rust spots while the larger ones have to be treated and sealed to prevent spreading. We then pull out the dents and remove the trim pieces if not requiring paint or to paint separately.
2
Select the Paint
Paint colour is matched using the paint code found on the vehicle compliance plate. There are two types of paint that are typically used in automotive applications. Solvent borne is the traditional paint used and contains a base like urethane, lacquer or enamel. Waterborne is used more and more due to it being more environmentally friendly.
3
Sanding
4
Clean & Tape Surfaces
Vehicle is wiped down with thinners to remove dust particles and get it ready for painting. Panels, trim, glass and door handles and any other surfaces not being painted are taped off.
5
Prime & Sand
Priming the vehicle is the first layer required and is applied using a top down technique. Usually 2-3 coats of primer are applied to cover the surface evenly. Each coat is thoroughly dried before the next coat is applied. We then sand again to reduce any powdery effects and to regain the smooth, even surface from before.
6
Apply Topcoat
Paint is applied in about 3 coats, sometimes more. It is thoroughly dried between each coat. Painting and curing times can vary depending on the size of the surface and the type of paint used.
7
Lacquer Coat
Also known as the clear coat, we apply a lacquer using the same technique we did when we painted it. Typically we cover it with 1-2 coats depending on the size of the area painted and paint used. While the clear coat is still wet we remove any tape from panels previously covered making sure not to blemish the paint. We allow the lacquer to cure for a set amount of time.
8
Buff & Smooth
Vehicle is buffed to even out and smooth the finish of the vehicle. We check for any imperfections to ensure your vehicle’s paint is flawless.
