Paint correction is typically the most time consuming prospect you can undertake with your car because it must be done with a precise, steady hand to guarantee the results are worthwhile. Of note is that different detailers have methods they trust, so the exercise itself varies from detailer to detailer. That being said, at its core, there are 5 main steps to the restoration process. So how do you get started creating a beautiful new paint job?

“Washing the car is to clear off the surface area as much as possible. Sometimes contaminants are embedded, and this is where a clay bar comes in. This substance penetrates deep into the finish to eradicate foreign elements and any problematic impurities”

Wash And Clay Bar The Vehicle

To give yourself a blank canvas to promote a healthy paint finish, first it is essential you wash the automobile thoroughly. Machine washes are fine, but if you plan on investing heavily on correction a clean by the hand is recommended so you can go panel to panel with precision. Washing the car is to clear off the surface area as much as possible. Sometimes contaminants are embedded, and this is where a clay bar comes in. This substance penetrates deep into the finish to eradicate foreign elements and any problematic impurities.

Heavy Correcting Compound

Usually there are three layers applied during the correction process. The first is the heavy compound, which works to positively affect the deepest scratches. With an orbital polish device, the substance should be placed on a foam applicator pad, also known as a ‘cutting’ pad. These pads typically come with the compound itself. Moving slowly and at minimal spin speed, polish each surface of the car moving panel to panel in a systematic fashion. Remember, an orbital polisher can rotate so quickly it can actually damage the clear coat, so only move up to comfortable speeds after you have established that the correcting compound is not being rubbed in generously enough.

Correcting Polish

The second substance placed on a separate pad, the correcting polish treats minor scratching and light swirls on the hood and body. In the same way as the heavy compound was placed on the vehicle, move methodically all over the paint, even on areas you feel do not need treatment. To make sure the paint correction is even and consistent throughout the entire finish, the whole surface area needs to be addressed.

Finishing Polish

The last of the substances, the finishing polish more or less ‘cleans up’ the residue left by the heavy compound and correcting solution. Even though an isopropyl alcohol rubdown is still recommended afterward, finishing polish will help the reflection of your car from scattering due to all the inconsistencies that were caused by scratches previously.

Isopropyl Alcohol Wipedown

Finally, non-polar compounds on the finish are dissolved by wiping the car down with isopropyl alcohol. This is basically a fancy way of saying that leftover oils and run off residue are removed. This step can be accomplished with a soft pad or towel that has a light, forgiving surface.

Conclusion

It cannot be stressed enough how quickly money can disappear from your wallet if you are not experienced in paint correction. Cars worth thousands of dollars can incur massive damage by breaking the bond of the paint job by applying compounds incorrectly. Because of this, the most prudent path is to harbor the strengths and skills of professional detailing experts, who can provide flawless paint restoration with ease.