Step-by-Step Guide: How Panel Beaters Perform Car Spray Painting

Step-by-Step Guide: How Panel Beaters Perform Car Spray Painting

Have you ever noticed how some cars have a perfect paint job even after being damaged?

Well, that’s the job of car panel beaters, who specialise in repairing and repainting cars.

But how do they do this? 

How do they ensure that the paint job is of top-notch quality?

Spray painting, being a crucial part of their job, requires great skill, precision, and the right tools.

In this blog, we will have a look at the step-by-step process that panel beaters use for car spray painting.

Main Steps And Tools Used In The Panel Beater Repair Spray Painting Process

Step Description Tool Used
1. Preparation Remove trim, repair dents Trim tools, hammers, dollies, sander
2. Sanding Sand to bare metal, clean Orbital sander, degreaser
3. Priming Apply primer, sand, clean Spray gun, sandpaper, degreaser
4. Painting Apply colour, clear coat, polish Spray gun, sandpaper, buffer

The spray painting process used by a panel beater is complex and requires attention to detail at every stage. 

Here’s a more in-depth look at each step:

1) Preparation

The preparation stage is crucial for a high-quality paint job. 

Removing trim pieces makes painting easier and ensures a more professional finish. 

Dent repair at this stage is essential because even small imperfections will be noticeable under the new paint.

2 ) Sanding

Sanding down to bare metal is necessary to remove any rust, old paint, or other imperfections that could affect the new paint’s adhesion. This step can take several hours, depending on the car’s condition. 

After sanding, thorough cleaning and degreasing are essential to ensure the new paint adheres properly.

3) Priming

Primer creates a smooth, even surface for the paint to adhere to and helps protect the metal from corrosion. 

Multiple thin coats are applied rather than one thick coat to prevent runs or sags. Sanding between coats of primer helps achieve a perfectly smooth surface.

4) Painting

The actual painting process involves applying multiple thin coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next. This technique helps prevent runs and ensures even coverage. The clear coat adds depth to the colour and protects the paint from UV rays and minor scratches.

Throughout the entire process, a panel beater specialist pays close attention to factors like temperature and humidity, as these can affect paint drying times and the final finish quality. They must also be skilled in mixing paint to achieve the exact colour match for the vehicle.

Now that we know about the tools and processes involved in car spray painting, let’s now have a rundown on the step-by-step procedure of how panel beaters actually do car spray painting.

Step 1: Preparation

1.1 Remove The Trim

The first step in the process is to remove any trim pieces that might interfere with the painting process. This includes:

  • Chrome or plastic trim
  • Door handles
  • Mirrors
  • Headlights

Tools used: Trim pad remover, panel tools, heat gun, screwdrivers

 

1.2 Repair Dents

Before painting, any dents or imperfections in the car’s body must be addressed. This involves:

  • Using hammers and dollies to reshape the metal
  • Applying body filler to smooth out imperfections
  • Sanding the filled areas for a seamless finish

Tools used: Hammers, dollies, pin dent pulling machine, orbital sander, body filler/putty.

 

Step 2: Sanding

2.1 Sanding Down To Bare Metal

This step involves removing the existing paint down to the bare metal. It’s a time-consuming process but crucial for a high-quality finish.

Tools used: Orbital sander

 

2.2 Clean And Degrease

After sanding, the car’s body must be thoroughly cleaned to remove dust, debris, and any oils or grease.

Tools used: Cloth, degreaser

 

2.3 Masking

The car is moved to a spray booth, and areas not to be painted are covered.

Tools used: Masking tape, plastic sheeting, newspaper

 

Step 3: Priming

3.1 Applying Paint Primer

Multiple coats of primer are applied, with sanding between coats to ensure a smooth surface.

Tools used: Spray gun, spray booth, paint primer, fine-grit sandpaper, cloth

 

3.2 Let The Paint Primer Cure

The primer needs time to cure properly before proceeding.

 

3.3 Sanding

After curing, the primer is lightly sanded to remove any imperfections.

Tools used: Fine-grit sandpaper

 

3.4 Wipe And Degrease

A final cleaning step before painting begins.

Tools used: Cloth, degreaser

 

Step 4: Car Spray Painting

4.1 Spray Painting

This is where the panel beater applies the actual colour coats.

Tools used: Spray gun, spray booth, car paint

 

4.2 Sanding

After the paint dries, any imperfections are carefully sanded out.

Tools used: Fine-grit sandpaper

 

4.3 Clear Coat

A protective clear coat is applied over the colour coat.

Tools used: Spray gun, spray booth, clear coat

 

4.4 Buffing And Polishing

The final step involves buffing and polishing for a glossy finish.

Tools used: Buffing machine, polish

Following these steps ensures a high-quality finish on your car. For more information on choosing the right panel beater, refer to our detailed blog on key considerations for selecting the right one. 

 

Looking For A Reliable Car Panel Beater Near Brooklyn?

So there you have it! That’s the insight into how panel beaters achieve those showroom-quality paint jobs. Now you know what goes into getting that perfect finish after your car takes a hit!

And now if your car has any dents, or scratches, or needs a fresh coat of paint, don’t try to tackle it yourself. Colonial Collision Centre has got you covered.

Our skilled and professional panel beaters ensure long-lasting, high-quality repair. We also guarantee that the paint and spray painting on your car will give it a spotless look, making it look as good as when you first bought it!

Call us today or visit our website to schedule a quote and get your car looking like new again! Our friendly staff will be happy to answer any questions you have and get you back on the road in no time.