COSMETIC PAINT RESTORATIONS

Detailing as it relates to paint thickness measurement is the systematic cleaning, rejuvenating, and protecting of the exterior painted surfaces of a vehicle. The primary purpose for paint detailing is to retain the appearance of newer vehicles or to revitalize older neglected vehicles. 

Paint correction, polishing, and wet sanding is the fine art of delicately removing micro-scratches, swirls, and “orange peel”. When done properly, a very fine amount of clear coat is removed, along with the otherwise permanent scratches and swirls in the clear coat. This leaves crystal clarity and pure reflections. When performed by a skilled craftsman, the difference is truly astonishing.

DEFELSKO:  STATE OF THE ART AUTO PAINT THICKNESS GUAGES.

When the need to polish (sand and buff) has been identified it is important to evaluate the paint in surrounding areas. Most factory paint jobs seem to range from 4–7 mils (100–180 microns). Thinner readings indicate that the clear coat is almost entirely removed or in the case of single-stage systems that the primer is about to show through. As represented in the photo above, thicker readings are often an indication that repainting has occurred. When repainting is detected, the operator has a difficult task in evaluating the suitability (thickness) of the top layer of paint for buffing. No matter how careful the operator, buffing or polishing on thin coatings risk paint damage to the vehicle. When detailing thin coatings or unknown paint layer thickness, an alternative system such as hand polishing may be the only safe option.

Trust technology and 30+ years of experience. Not someone’s “best guess”.