Categories
Car Paint

What Should You Do If Your Car’s Paint Is Damaged?

A car is one of a person’s most valuable items, but it’s not perfect. Many things can go wrong with a vehicle, ranging from minor issues to major problems that require expensive repairs. One such problem is when the paint on your car gets damaged.

A car’s paint is one of its most important features, as it helps protect the vehicle from damage and gives it a sleek appearance. Here are some reasons why car paint can be damaged and what you should do if you find yourself in this situation.

Scratch

A scratch is a mark made by contact with another object or surface. These marks can be shallow or deep, depending on how hard they were hit and how sharp their edges are. They can be challenging to repair because they often cause tiny cracks in the paint layer underneath them. These cracks will eventually spread out and cause larger problems later on if they aren’t taken care of quickly enough.

Chips

Chips are small scratches in your car’s paint job that are too big to fill with compound but not big enough to qualify as a dent. Chips can be removed by sanding down the area around the chip until you reach bare metal, then repainting that area so that it blends in seamlessly with the rest of your car’s paint job.

Paint Fade

If you live in a sunny area or drive in bright sunlight, you may notice your car’s paint fading. This is caused by UV damage. Fading can be prevented by applying a coat of wax to your car every few months and ensuring it’s clean and dry after washing it.

Rust

Rust occurs when moisture gets into small cracks in the metal of your car and causes oxidation of the metal underneath the surface of the paint job. In many cases, this means that only a small portion of the exterior needs to be stripped down and repainted — likely just the affected area closest to where moisture has gotten inside the vehicle’s body. You can prevent this by washing your car regularly, using a spray wax rather than a liquid wax, and drying the vehicle thoroughly after washing it.

Dents

Collisions with other vehicles, objects or people cause dents. While it’s impossible to avoid dents completely, several ways exist to repair them. The first step is to remove any loose paint from the area around the dent and use an adhesive remover to dissolve any remaining adhesive from previous repairs on the car.

Next, you can pull out small dents with a suction tool that uses vacuum pressure to pull them out of place. For larger dents, you may need to fill in areas where the filler has been removed before repainting your vehicle.

Once the dent is out of your vehicle’s body, you can fill in any remaining holes with a filler compound. Sand down the area to make it even and smooth before applying primer and paint to match your car’s original colour. If you don’t want to repaint your entire car, consider spot-painting instead.

Conclusion

You’ve probably noticed that car paint can be damaged in many ways. Whether it’s a minor scratch or a major dent, the problem can be frustrating. If you find yourself dealing with this type of issue, there are a few steps you should take to ensure that your vehicle is repaired properly and that it doesn’t happen again.

For auto paint restoration in Edmonton, contact the professionals at Lucky 13. We’re here to help you, so give us a call today! We offer various services, including auto paint restoration, touch-ups and more.

Categories
Car Paint

Auto Painting Professional: Why You Should Hire Them

When it comes to auto painting, it can be a daunting task for many. With so many techniques, products, and tools available, it can take time to know where to start.

That’s where a professional auto painting specialist comes in. Professional auto painters have the knowledge and experience to ensure your vehicle looks its best. They understand the ins and outs of auto painting to provide you with the highest quality results. 

If you’re still hesitant to employ car painting services, here are the following reasons you should:

1. Expertise

Painting a car is an art form that requires a combination of skill, knowledge, and experience. It is an intricate process that involves many steps and requires patience and precision. That’s why if you have tried to paint your car on your own, you can see how difficult it is, especially when you try to match the colour of the original paint job. 

With a professional auto painter, you won’t have to worry about painting the car alone or buying its tools. All you need to do is contact them, discuss what needs to be done, and they’ll do the job right.

2. Indoor Environment and Proper Ventilation

If you don’t know, car painting services aren’t just done anywhere. Remember that each auto painter’s paint and tool contains toxic fumes and chemicals. That is why the area where the auto painting service is done is well-ventilated. This way, the painter can work in a safe environment.

The painter should have a special painting booth with a powerful exhaust fan to help remove any fumes and dust particles. This will help ensure that the fumes and dust don’t affect the quality of the paint job.

3. The Right Equipment

Have you ever wondered why, no matter how you colour your car, the paint isn’t as good as the one professionals use? Car painting services utilize special equipment and tools that regular people don’t have.

For example, a professional auto painter will apply the paint to the car with a spray gun. This is because a spray gun is better at evenly distributing the paint over the car’s surface. Other tools and equipment include a pressure washer, an electric sander, and a buffer. Professional auto painters also use quality paints so that the paint job will last longer.

Factors to Consider before Hiring an Auto Painter

Now that you understand why professional auto painters are better than DIYers, you should consider a few factors before hiring one:

  • Experience: Make sure the auto painter you hire has plenty of experience. Check their portfolio to get an idea of the work they do.
  • Quality: Ask about the type of paints and other materials the painter uses. A professional auto painter should use top-notch quality paints and materials.
  • Price: Get an estimate of the job’s cost before hiring the painter. Ensure the price is reasonable and you get what you pay for.
  • Reputation: Ask around and read reviews of the painter’s work. Make sure they have a good reputation in the industry.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a professional auto painter can be extremely beneficial for anyone looking to give their vehicle a new look. Not only do professional auto painters have the tools and knowledge needed to get the job done right the first time, but they can also help protect the vehicle from further damage, such as rust or paint fading.

Lucky 13 provides reliable and high-quality car painting services in Edmonton. We ensure that every job is done with the utmost attention to detail and that the customer is satisfied with the results. Get a free quote today!

Categories
Car Paint

An Overview of Car Paint Chemistry and Its Effects

Car paint is a complex mixture of chemicals that work together to create a durable finish that is both aesthetically pleasing and resistant to the elements. It is made up of a variety of components, including pigments, resins, solvents, and additives. The chemistry of car paint is very important in order to achieve the desired look and protection. Understanding the components of car paint and how they interact with each other can help you make the best choice for your vehicle.

Car Paint Composition 101

Car paint is an essential component in the overall look of your vehicle. It is composed of many different materials, all of which play a role in the appearance and durability of the paint job. The base of the paint is a combination of pigments, solvents, and resins. Let’s break down each component and its use:

Pigments: Pigments are the colourants that give the paint its colour and opacity. They are usually made up of inorganic compounds such as iron oxide, titanium dioxide, and chromium oxide. The type and amount of pigment used will affect the colour, opacity, and durability of the paint.

Resins: Resins are the binding agents that hold the pigment particles together and make the paint more durable. They are usually composed of synthetic polymers such as acrylics, polyurethanes, and epoxies. The type and amount of resin used can affect the gloss, hardness, flexibility, and durability of the paint.

Additives: Additives are used to improve the performance of the paint. They can be used to adjust the paint’s gloss, hardness, flexibility, and drying time. Common additives include silica, waxes, and UV protectants.

Solvents: Solvents are used to dilute the paint and keep it in liquid form. They are typically made up of organic compounds such as toluene, xylene, and acetone. The type and amount of solvent used can affect the drying time, flow, and viscosity of the paint.

Effects of Car Paint Chemistry

The chemistry of car paint plays an important role in the look and longevity of your vehicle’s paint job. Different combinations of pigments, solvents, resins, and additives can create different effects, from a glossy finish to a matte finish. Additionally, the chemistry of car paint can help to protect the paint from UV rays, chemicals, and other environmental factors.

The overall effect of car paint chemistry is dependent on the components used and how they interact with each other. The type of paint used can affect the colour, gloss, and longevity of the car’s finish. For example, high-quality paint with a glossy finish will last longer than low-quality paint with a dull finish. The quality of the components used can also affect the appearance and durability of the car’s paint job. For example, paint with high-quality resins and pigments will be more resistant to fading and chipping.

Conclusion

Car paint chemistry is a complex and intricate subject that has a significant effect on the look and performance of a vehicle. By understanding the chemistry of car paint, you can make an informed decision on the type of paint and components used to achieve the desired effect. Quality components and careful paint application can result in a durable and attractive paint job that will last for years.

When it comes to ensuring the highest quality finish, it is important to choose a reputable car paint professional to get the job done correctly. Lucky 13 is an expert in autobody collision repair and custom car paint services, offering the best materials and techniques to ensure the best results. Whenever you need custom paint services or full paint restoration in Edmonton, Lucky 13 is the place to go. Contact us today to get started!

Categories
Car Paint

How to Choose the Right Car Paint Protection

The value of a car can be influenced by its paint condition. To safeguard your car and its value, you should invest in protection. Driving can lead to dangerous accidents or damage caused by vandalism or bird droppings. Although extra precautions can help, the best defence is finding the best paint protection for your car. 

Clear coating, films, and ceramic coating are all options that provide an extra layer of protection. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to decide which is best for you. Choosing the right car paint protection is essential for keeping your car safe and maintaining its value.

3 Types of Paint Protection

Protecting your car’s paint job is essential to keep it looking great. There are several methods of protection to choose from, such as clear coating, protective films, and ceramic coating. Each option offers different levels of protection, so it is important to consider your budget and what level of protection you need before making a decision. Taking the time to choose the right paint protection for your car will help ensure that it stays looking good for many years to come.

  • Clear Coating

New cars often come with a factory-applied finish that gives the paint job a smooth look and guards against certain harm. This clear coat, however, may not be enough to prevent scratches and dents. To help with this, a protective clear coating can be applied over the existing layer. This extra layer is made of chemicals that form a bond to the original clear coat and helps shield the paint from acidic substances, road debris, and more. Clear coating is a low-cost solution that is simple to apply but needs to be maintained regularly. It should be reapplied multiple times each year to combat the effects of wear and tear.

  • Paint Protection Films

Paint protection is like plastic wrap applied to your car to protect its paint job from damage. You can choose to cover the entire car or only certain parts more likely to be damaged. The more covered area, the more expensive the job will be and the harder it will be to install. Paint protection films are long-lasting and will repair themselves if damaged. It is a good option that is moderately priced, effective, and long-lasting.

  • Ceramic Coatings

Ceramic coatings are a type of car paint protection that involves applying a very thin layer of a special chemical solution to the car’s original clear coat. This requires a time-consuming process of preparation, specialized environments, and a very detailed application. Ceramic coatings offer the most protection, creating a shiny and clean look and protecting from UV rays, bugs, abrasions, and other substances. However, these coatings are pricey and require maintenance every three to seven years.

Conclusion

Choosing the best car paint protection is an important decision that should not be taken lightly. It is important to consider the different types of paint protection available, the cost of the product, ease of installation and maintenance, durability, and overall look and feel. Additionally, it is important to consult with a professional paint protection service to ensure that the chosen product is the best fit for your car and will provide the desired results. 

Lucky 13 are experts in auto body repair and custom paint services. We are dedicated to providing our customers with quality workmanship, trusted service and competitive pricing. From minor to major auto body repair, paint touch-ups due to scratches or dents, and even a custom paint job or colour change, we can help you get your car looking like you’ve always wanted it. If you need car painting in Edmonton, we’ve got you covered! Get in touch with us today to get a free quote!

Categories
Car Paint

5 Things You Should Know About Repainting Your Car

If the paint on your car looks worn-out, faded, or smudged in some spots, consider giving it a new coat to give it a refreshed look. 

However, as most people will tell you, repainting a car is not as easy as sanding off old paint and coating it with your regular store-bought paint. Car repainting is a complex process that you should leave to auto body shops.

That being said, it’s always a good idea to understand the work that goes into repainting your car. Here are the five main things auto body shops do when repainting your car.

1. Prep Work

The most critical part of repainting a car is the prep work that goes into it. The better you do prep work, the easier it makes the rest of the process. Prep work involves sanding down any existing paint and repairing any dents or scratches to create a smooth surface for painting. You may need to replace parts such as bumpers and fenders if they are beyond repair. 

2. Primer and Paint Selection

Choose an appropriate primer and paint colour for your car’s make and model year range, and decide if you want single-stage or two-stage paints. Two-stage paints provide more depth but require more labour hours during application.

Depending on your chosen colour, this part of the process can be the trickiest. Many automobile manufacturers develop their proprietary colour blends, which not all auto body shops will know how to replicate. Ask your auto body shop about the colour before giving them the job.

3. Painting Process

After all materials have been selected, professional painters begin applying coats of primer. Painters will follow this up with multiple coats of colour until they achieve their desired coverage. Lastly, painters will add several layers of clear coat finish, which protects from UV rays while giving off an attractive shine at the same time.  

4. Cost Considerations 

Most auto body shops charge by the hour. However, they can also charge extra fees due to the job complexity and the rarity of the parts and paint required. Many auto body shops charge anywhere from $1000 to $3000. Don’t go for the cheapest or most expensive shop you can find. It’s best to shop around and find a shop that will give you the most bang for your buck.

5. Time Frame 

Many factors can affect the time it will take to finish repainting your car. Besides the number of hours it will take to finish the project, you should also factor in the waiting time for the availability of parts and materials and the capacity of the autobody shop to take in work. 

It’s common to see auto body shops with a waiting list, so it may take anywhere from a week to a few months to finish your project.

Conclusion 

Repainting your car can help breathe new life into your trusty workhorse. However, before rushing to your nearest auto body shop, it’s crucial to understand the costs in time and finances involved, as well as the availability of parts and materials. With research and patience, you can expect your car to look brand new in no time.

Lucky 13 is an auto body and paint shop in Edmonton that provides services in custom colour changes, minor and major auto body repairs, and more. Contact us today to get a free quote! 

Categories
Car Paint

5 Tips on Keeping Your Car Paint Shiny and Rust-Free

If you’re looking to keep your car’s paint looking shiny and new, you’ll want to avoid rust at all costs. Rust can not only damage your paint, but it can also lead to expensive repairs down the line.

How Does Rust Form?

Rust is a type of corrosion that forms when iron or steel is exposed to oxygen and water. The oxygen reacts with the metal to form iron oxide, which is also known as rust.

While rust is most commonly associated with iron and steel, it can also form on other metals, including aluminum and copper.

What Causes Rust on Cars?

There are several things that can cause rust on cars, including:

Road salt: Road salt is one of the most common causes of rust on cars. When salt is used to melt ice on roads, it can splash up onto your car and cause the metal to corrode.

Stone chips: Stone chips can also cause rust on your car. When a stone hits your car, it can create a small chip in the paint. Over time, water can seep into these chips and cause the metal to rust.

Bird droppings: Believe it or not, bird droppings can also cause rust on your car. The acid in bird droppings can eat away at the paint, eventually leading to rust.

How to Prevent Rust on Your Car

There are a few things (Keep Your Car Clean, Wax Your Car Regularly, Use a Rust-Preventive Paint, Store Your Car in a Cool Dry Place, Treat Rust as Soon as You See It) you can do to prevent rust on your car, including:

1. Keep Your Car Clean

The best way to prevent rust is to keep your car clean. Wash your car regularly, especially during the winter months when salt is on the roads. When you wash your car, ensure you get into all the nooks and crannies, where rust can form.

2. Wax Your Car Regularly

Waxing your car regularly will also help prevent rust. Wax creates a barrier between your paint and the elements, which will help protect your car from rust.

3. Use a Rust-Preventive Paint

If you are storing your car outside, you may want to consider using a rust-preventive paint. Rust-preventive paint creates a barrier that will help protect your car from rust.

4. Store Your Car in a Cool Dry Place

If you are storing your car for an extended period, it’s best to store it in a cool dry place. A garage is the best place to store your car, but if you don’t have a garage, you can store it in a carport or under a car cover.

5. Treat Rust as Soon as You See It

If you do see rust on your car, it’s important to treat it as soon as possible. Rust will only get worse over time, so the sooner you treat it, the better.

Conclusion

There are a few key things you can do to keep rust off your car’s paint. First, wash and wax your car regularly. This will help create a barrier between the paint and the elements. Second, don’t let your car sit in water or salt. If you live in an area with a lot of snow, make sure to wash your car often to remove any salt that could lead to rust. Third, if you do notice rust, act quickly. Use a rust converter or primer to stop the rust from spreading, then repaint the area. By following these tips, you can keep your car’s paint looking new for years to come.

Lucky 13 provides top-quality services for full paint restoration in Edmonton. Our professional auto detailers will ensure your car looks as good as new, all for fair prices. Visit our website today to request a free quote!

Categories
Car Paint

Strike a Bold Impression: Tips to Select an Ideal Car Color

Are you someone who loves to stand out in the pack? Your car colour might be the best way to make that happen! When selecting a car colour, there is no right or wrong choice because it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 

But if you want to make a bold impression, consider some tips to help pick the perfect colour for your vehicle. Here are the following:

1. Consider Available Colors

When choosing the make and model of a car, colour selection is an essential factor to consider. Different makes and models of vehicles come in various colours, ranging from classic neutrals, such as white, black, and grey, to bolder options, such as red, blue, or green. You may even find some cars with unusual hues like purple or orange.

The number of available colours can vary between car models and manufacturers. Some manufacturers only offer a limited selection of colours, while others are more expensive. It’s usually a good idea to research the range of colours available for your chosen make and model before you buy since you may have fewer options than you thought.

Some cars also have additional customization options that allow you to mix and match paints to create your unique look. If this is something that interests you, be sure to check if it’s available for your chosen model before you buy. 

2. Consider the Maintenance

When considering which car colour to choose, maintenance should be considered. Specific colours require more upkeep than others. Depending on the type of vehicle, the owner’s lifestyle, and regional climate, specific car colours may need more care to stay looking their best. 

For example, darker hues like black may show dirt and grime more quickly, so a darker-coloured car may need to be washed more often than a light-coloured vehicle to maintain its shine. Similarly, lighter hues like white tend to fade and oxidize faster in warmer climates, requiring more frequent waxing and buffing. 

Additionally, red cars are known for being eye-catching, but they also show swirl marks if not washed properly – resulting in unsightly blemishes on the exterior.

3. Consider Scientific Explanation Behind Heat and Colours

The first explanation relates to heat. Lighter colours, such as white or silver, tend to reflect more light and absorb less heat than darker shades, such as black or dark blue. The decreased absorption of light keeps the car cooler in hot weather conditions, which can be beneficial in areas prone to high temperatures. Furthermore, lighter-coloured cars tend to show less dirt than their darker counterparts, requiring less frequent washing and maintenance.  

4. Consider Resale Value

Practicality also plays an important role when considering resale value. Although loud and vibrant colours may draw attention initially, they tend to be less desirable to potential buyers in the long run. Lighter colours are often considered more sensible choices as they show fewer signs of wear and tear than darker colours.

In addition, specific colours may portray better impressions of the car’s owner or driver. This means that dark blue and green shades are more appreciated as these classic and elegant hues have a sense of sophistication associated with them. 

Conclusion

Choosing the right car colour is an important decision, as it helps to enhance your driving experience and adds a personal touch to your vehicle. Before choosing a car colour, consider your budget, lifestyle, climate, and local car colour trends. With these tips, you can confidently select the perfect car colour.

If you have decided what colour you want for your car and need professional auto body paint in Edmonton, Lucky 13 is the best for you! Our experienced technicians have been in the industry for years and know how to make your car look its best. Visit us now!

Categories
Car Paint

What Causes Sun Damage to Car Paint and How to Prevent It

The sun’s rays can benefit some, but they can be a huge detriment to vehicle owners. The intense ultraviolet radiation from the sun can be detrimental to our cars, resulting in fading and damage to the paint. This is a problem that car owners must deal with all over the world.

As such, it is important to protect your vehicle’s paint, plastic trim, headlights, and other components from the sun’s harmful rays. In this article, we will explore how you can protect your car from the damaging effects of the sun. Read on. 

How Sun Damage Occurs 

Ultraviolet (UV) light is an invisible form of light with a wavelength measuring between 10 and 400 nanometers, shorter than what is visible to the human eye and longer than X-rays. It is a type of energy present in natural sunlight and makes up about 10 percent of the sun’s total electromagnetic radiation. UV light is very powerful and can have a range of effects on living things.

The sun’s ultraviolet radiation can cause damage to car paint, diminishing its protective qualities and leading to fading, cracking, and other deterioration. This can make the car look old and worn out and reduce its resale value.

Over time, the molecules in automotive paints, clear coats, and other materials are broken down by UV light, resulting in the loss of their original brightness and color. This phenomenon, called the dulling effect, affects automotive paints, plastic trims, headlights, glass, tires, and wheels.

Automotive paint colors will absorb all the colors in the spectrum except the one they are designed to appear as. This, unfortunately, makes them more susceptible to damage from ultraviolet rays, which are also part of the spectrum. 

Common Causes of Sun Damage on Your Car

  • Accumulated Dirt 

When a car is not regularly cleaned, dirt, dust, and other contaminants accumulate on the surface, causing damage to the paint and clear coat. This damage can be seen as a loss of shine and color, fading, and increased vulnerability to UV light. Regular cleaning will help preserve the car’s appearance and protect it against further damage.

  • Organic Wastes

Bird droppings, tree sap, and bug remnants can all contain high levels of acidic components that can cause rapid deterioration of car paint and other surfaces. Uric acid, which is especially abundant in bird feces, can start to break down clear coat paint in a short amount of time.

  • Salt 

Salt is a type of contaminant that can make it easier for UV light to damage car parts. It can quickly get through protective surfaces like car wax, transparent coatings, or paint sealants. 

Conclusion

Protecting car paint from sun damage is essential to maintain the look and health of a vehicle. Parking in the shade or using a sunshade when possible is important. It is also important to regularly clean the car and wax it at least twice a year. Additionally, a paint sealant can help protect the paint from UV rays and other elements. Taking these steps can help ensure that your car will look good for many years to come.

If you are looking for an auto body paint shop in Edmonton, choose Lucky 13. We take pride in being experts in auto body repair and custom paint services. We are dedicated to providing our customers with quality workmanship, trusted service, and competitive pricing. Get a free quote!

Categories
Car Paint

Why Your Car Paint Fades and How to Address the Problem

Sure, we can all agree that faded car paint is ugly to look at. It can make you second guess driving your car around simply for the sheer embarrassment you may get out of it. However, some people believe it to be dangerous as well. Many believe that faded car paints release fumes that can lead to inflammation, rashes, and the like. While this “danger” part of faded car paint is still heavily debated today, the fact of the matter is that you do not want to deal with faded car paint on your car.

But of course, why does your car’s paint fade, and what can be done to stop the process? Here’s what you need to know:

Why Does My Car’s Paint Fade?

If you notice that your car’s paint is beginning to fade, there are a few possible causes. Here are four of the most common:

1. Sun Exposure

One of the most common causes of fading car paint is sun exposure. Over time, the ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can break down the paint, causing it to lose its colour and gloss. This is especially true if your car is parked in direct sunlight for long periods of time.

2. Weather Conditions

Certain weather conditions can also cause your car’s paint to fade. For example, if you live in an area with a lot of rain, the paint can start to fade due to the water and humidity. Snow and ice can also damage the paint, as can sand and dust storms.

3. Pollution

Pollution can also cause the paint on your car to fade. The chemicals in the air can break down the paint, causing it to lose its colour and gloss.

4. Poor Maintenance

If you don’t properly maintain your car’s paint, it can also start to fade. For example, if you don’t wax your car regularly, the paint can become dull and faded.

How Do I Protect My Car’s Paint from Fading?

As we’ve said, the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage the paint on your car, causing it to fade, become dull, and even crack over time. But there are ways to protect your car’s paint from the sun’s harmful rays.

One way to protect your car’s paint is to park in a garage or under a carport whenever possible. If you can’t park in a garage or under a carport, try to park in the shade whenever possible.

Another way to protect your car’s paint is to use a car cover. A car cover will help to keep the sun off of your car’s paint and will also help to protect it from other environmental factors, such as dust, dirt, and bird droppings.

You can also use a product called a UV protectant on your car’s paint. UV protectants are applied to the paint and act as a barrier to the sun’s UV rays. There are many different brands and types of UV protectants available, so be sure to read the labels carefully to choose the one that is right for your car’s paint.

Finally, be sure to wash and wax your car regularly. This will help to create a barrier against the sun’s UV rays and will also help to keep your car’s paint looking shiny and new!

Conclusion

Driving a car with its paint faded is never a fun thing, especially if you’re quite self-aware about it. Fortunately, you don’t have to deal with this problem if you know how to treat your car right! Follow the tips we’ve shared above to make sure your car’s paint lasts. And, if your car’s paint has already faded, send it over to a paint shop to give your car a brand-new look it deserves!

Lucky 13 is an expert in auto body repair and custom paint services, helping customers enjoy reliable services that meet and even exceed expectations. If you are looking for auto body painting in Edmonton, get in touch with us today!

Categories
Car Paint

8 Major Reasons Why Your Auto Paint is Fading & What to Do

No one wants their new car’s paint to fade, but it can happen surprisingly quickly. Depending on where you live, your car’s paint could start fading within two years. This is more common in areas with harsh weather conditions, but even if you don’t live in such an area, it’s still something to be aware of. Being prepared for faded paint will help you keep your car looking its best.

As cars age in Canada, their paint inevitably begins to fade. There are several factors that can cause this to happen, including sunlight, humidity, and even the type of paint used. Here are the eight main causes of fading auto paint:

1. Sunlight

One of the main causes of fading car paint is sunlight. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can cause the colour pigments in your paint to break down over time, resulting in a dull, faded appearance. This is especially true for darker-coloured cars, which absorb more UV rays than lighter-coloured cars.

2. Road Salt

Another common cause of fading car paint is road salt. During the winter months, road crews will often spread salt on the roads to help melt ice and snow. However, this salt can also damage your car’s paint if it’s not washed off promptly. Over time, the salt will cause the paint to break down and become dull and faded.

3. Humidity

Humidity can also cause car paint to fade. When the air is filled with moisture, it can cause the paint to become oxidized. This process is accelerated in areas with high humidity levels, such as coastal regions.

4. Heat

Heat is also a major factor in fading car paint. When the temperature gets too hot, it can cause the paint to become brittle and start to crack. This is especially true in areas with high temperatures and direct sunlight, such as deserts.

5. Chemicals

Certain chemicals can also cause car paint to fade. For example, if you regularly wash your car with harsh chemicals, it can strip away the protective coating on the paint and cause the colour to fade.

6. Pollution

Pollution is another common cause of fading car paint. When car exhaust mixes with the air, it can cause a chemical reaction that will break down the paint over time. This is especially true in areas with high levels of air pollution, such as cities.

7. Aging

The older your car is, the more likely it is to have faded paint. This is because the paint is constantly exposed to the elements, which can cause it to break down over time. There are several things you can do to prevent this from happening, such as washing and waxing your car regularly, but it is still something that you will have to deal with as your car gets older.

8. Poor Quality Paint 

If you have a car that was painted with poor quality paint, it is more likely to fade over time. This is because the paint is not as durable, and it is more susceptible to the elements. If you are looking to buy a new car, make sure to ask about the quality of the paint before you make your purchase.

Conclusion

The main causes of fading auto paint are exposure to sunlight, pollution, and weather conditions such as rain and snow. These elements can cause the paint to lose its colour and become dull. To prevent this from happening, it is important to regularly wash and wax your car and to store it in a garage or covered parking area when possible.

If you are looking for a garage that does top-notch auto paint restoration, you will not be disappointed if you hand in your vehicle to Lucky 13. We will restore your car to its former glory, so take your vehicle to us now!