Cars serve a purpose beyond just transportation for many people. They're a status symbol for some and akin to a second home for others. That's why so many individuals take pride in their cars. One way of expressing this pride is keeping the vehicle well maintained. When a car's exterior begins to look old and rusty - or the owner simply wants something different - a fresh coat of paint will make it look as good as new.
What is the Average Price of a Professional Paint Job?
The cost of a professional paint job spans from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. There are three main factors to consider. The first is the prep work that must be done. If your car is significantly damaged, technicians will require you to have it repaired before they begin the painting process. Minor cosmetic issues like dents or scratches can affect the appearance of the car even after painting, but it's not necessary to fix them.
Stripping any layers of existing paint also increases the cost of a professional job. You can save money by taking on this task yourself or by simply having the professionals paint over the old color.
The second factor is the type and quality of paint. Cheaper options don't last as long as more expensive products, nor are their colors as vibrant.
There are four different types of auto paint. Acrylic is generally the cheapest option and near-painless to apply. However, it's easy to chip and not chemical resistant, meaning car owners will have to paint their vehicle on a regular basis. Enamel paint is more durable but also slightly more expensive and difficult to apply.
Urethane-based paint is as easy to apply as acrylic and as tough as enamel. It's more expensive than both, however, and needs a catalyst and a reducer. Water-based paint is the latest option but is most expensive and comes in fewer colors.
The final element that determines cost is the paint job itself. Custom patterns or colors - for instance, flames, logos, metallic paints and portraits - all require a certain amount of experience and expertise.
Generally, you can find a nationwide chain that will paint your car for as little as $300. Custom jobs can reach as high as $20,000, but the average cost of painting a car falls between $1,500 and $6,000.
How Do I Paint My Own Car?
Painting your own car can save you several thousand dollars if you know what you're doing. You'll need lots of equipment and an extended weekend to complete this do-it-yourself project. It's best to find some scrap parts and practice your technique before starting on your vehicle.
Make a detailed plan about how, when and where you will paint your car.
Before beginning, you should make a detailed plan about how, when and where you will paint your car. You will need plenty of space, a dirt-free environment and, if indoors, proper ventilation. Options include a driveway, garage or rented spray booth. The latter choice generally runs between $75 and $150 per day. If you believe painting cars will become a hobby or profession, purchasing a spray booth can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000. If you plan to paint your car outside, be sure to schedule for several consecutive days of clear weather with no wind.
What Tools Do I Need to Paint My Car?
It's okay - and often, a good idea - to paint directly over the car's original paint. However, if the finish is cracked, peeling, lifting or otherwise damaged, you'll need an electric or air-powered sander and plenty of sandpaper to strip it. It's also a good idea to strip a car if it already has several layers of paint.
A spray gun is required to ensure an even coat. You can find one at your local automotive store for $50 to $100. You'll also need paint thinner, which costs between $8 and $20.
Moisture separators and dust extractors aren't exactly necessary, but they maintain a good environment for painting cars. The moisture separator keeps the air dry and prevents the paint job from getting ruined, while a dust extractor keeps the area free of debris. Other tools include masking tape, newspapers and safety measures like masks, gloves and goggles.
How much paint you'll need depends on what you're painting - you can stick to the outside or paint the complete vehicle including both sides of the hood, the trunk and the door jambs. Large cars require a few gallons more paint than smaller ones, but it's always a good idea to overestimate the amount you'll need. This way, you'll have enough to take care of any potential mistakes.
Do as much research as possible into the paint brand.
Next, you'll need to consider the brand of paint. Unless you've painted cars before, do as much research as possible into the brand. Read consumer reviews and ask auto technicians at local body shops about their preferences. Amateurs should stick to using one brand for the entire process, including the primer, paint and finish. Mixing brands has been done effectively, but people without experience should be sure to test the effects first.
Also, check with local laws and make sure you're legally able to paint your own car. Some local consumer protection and health laws prohibit the use of certain types of paint while some states require DIY auto painters to contact their Department of Motor Vehicles.
With a plan in place, go over your budget and make certain you won't have to cut costs anywhere. Sacrificing quality materials for savings might be financially beneficial, but your car won't look as good.
What Steps Do I Take to Paint a Car?
Begin by cleaning the workspace so it's free of dust and debris. Be wary of painting outside near trees or bushes, as falling leaves and branches can ruin your work. Wildlife and insects also pose a risk, so be careful. Next, wash the car well so it's free of dirt and grease.
If you're exceptionally skilled at car maintenance, you can separate the vehicle into its various parts.
If you're exceptionally skilled at car maintenance, you can separate the vehicle into its various parts. Separating the hood, trunk, doors and other components from each other reveals any overlooked damage and makes it easier to strip and paint the nooks and crannies. Otherwise, remove small parts like locks, antennae and windshield wipers. Alternatively, you can mask these areas off with high-quality masking tape, which costs less than $10 per roll. Apply the tape and a plastic sheet to any area you don't want painted, such as the windshield and sunroof.
If you're stripping the car of old paint, begin using the sander in circular motions. You'll want a smooth, even surface regardless of whether or not you're stripping the car to its bare metal. If you're painting the whole car, don't forget to strip under the hood, trunk and other areas. Wipe the car down with a rag damp with paint thinner and then wait for it to dry.
Follow instructions on the paint can to mix the primer with thinners. Apply the primer in thin, even coats, covering the painting area completely and making sure the spray gun is continuously in motion whenever your finger is on the trigger. Repeat the process two or three times and let the car dry in between. Once complete, smooth the surface with sandpaper and wipe it with a rag and a slight amount of thinner.
Prepare the paint, mixing it with thinner per the can's instructions. Apply the paint with the same technique you used to prime the car's surface and give the car three or four coats. Let it dry in between each and, once finished, smooth and wipe the surface again. Apply the clear lacquer in exactly the same manner.
While the lacquer is still wet, remove the masking tape. Reassemble the vehicle once it's completely dry.
What Safety Measures Should I Take?
Painting a car exposes you to harmful chemicals and debris such as chipped paint and metal fragments. Use safety glasses when stripping layers of paint and always work with gloves. If your eyes are sensitive, you'll probably need goggles as opposed to glasses. A face mask helps protect from toxic fumes, but a respirator works best. Organize your painting area well to avoid any accidents, and check all tools to make sure they work and are set up properly.
A proper automotive paint job doesn't have to break your budget, but you should also avoid choosing the least expensive option. You'll want a durable, quality paint that will last a long time. In addition, fixing dents, scratches and other damage - whether major or minor - will ensure the finished product looks great.