Cars have different paint finishes, but matte and gloss are the most common. Each finish has a unique look and needs different treatment when damaged.
Matte paint has a soft, non-reflective appearance, but repairing matte paint can be difficult. On the other hand, gloss paint has a shiny appearance that reflects light. It lasts longer and is easier to repair.
In this article, we will discuss both matte and gloss paint repairs, their cost, durability, and more to help you understand how they work.
Highlights
This article covers:
- How to repair matte and gloss paint
- Their repair costs
- Tips to protect paint, and more.
How to Repair Gloss Paint?
Gloss paint is easier to repair compared to matte. Light polishing and buffing are usually enough to remove minor scratches. For deeper scratches, the process is as follows:
- Cleaning the affected area
- Sanding the surface
- Using filler and primer if needed
- Applying colour-matched paint
- Finishing with a clear coat for protection against UV rays and harsh weather.
Read Also: Car Paint Damage: Different Types and How To Fix Them?
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How to Repair Matte Paint?
Matte paint repairs are more complex than gloss paint repairs. Even minor damage requires professional repair at a reliable auto body shop in London because polishing does not remove light scratches or swirl marks. In addition, matte colours are harder to match precisely, and the difference can be noticeable under different lighting conditions.
Here’s how the matte paint repair process works:
- Cleaning: Wash the damaged area with a soft cloth and a mild cleaner because strong cleaners can leave spots.
- Damage Assessment: You can remove light marks or scratches with a matte paint cleaner or by carefully touching up with the same colour matte paint. Sanding and fresh paint may be required for serious damage.
- Sanding: Lightly sand the area and add filler if needed. Don’t rub too hard, as this can ruin the texture.
- Priming: Apply primer on the surface to help the paint stick properly and protect it from rust.
- Painting: Use a colour-matching matte paint. Keep a consistent distance between the spray gun and the surface for a seamless finish.
- Finishing: Use a clear coat that is specially made for matte finishes. Don’t polish or wax the paint as it can alter its original appearance.
The repaired matte paint doesn’t always blend with the surrounding paint, and even minor inconsistencies in the application can be visible in different light conditions. The repairs usually work best on low-visibility areas like door bottom, inside the bonnet, inner panels, etc. For prominent areas, a full panel respray is required to achieve an even finish.
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The Cost of Matte and Gloss Paint Repairs
Gloss repairs are faster and cheaper because blending is easy and touch-up products are readily available. A small scratch or chip can be fixed at an affordable price. On the other hand, matte repairs have a more detailed process and may require entire panel resprays using special products, making them more expensive.
How to Protect the Paintwork?
Waxing or ceramic coating is applied to gloss paint to enhance its shine and create a thin layer of protection over the paint. On the other hand, matte paint requires special sealants to protect its texture.
Using low-quality products can damage your car’s paint. Always work with well-reputed car body shops in London that use high-quality products to protect your car’s paint.
Some car owners also use Paint Protection Film (PPF). It’s especially useful for matte paint as it prevents stains and marks that can’t be removed with a polish. Although a matte-specific film costs between £3,000 and over £4,000, it can save you significant money in the long run by preventing expensive matte paint repairs caused by road debris, harsh weather, or UV rays.
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Choosing the Right Paint
Gloss paint is more affordable and easier to maintain, making it a better option for most car owners. While matte paint gives your car a unique look, it’s costly due to high maintenance and complex repairs. The final choice depends on your preference and budget. If you want your car to stand out and budget is not a problem, then choose matte finish. Otherwise, go with the gloss paint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Matte repair is usually more difficult because polishing alone is not enough to remove swirl marks or minor scratches. It requires a detailed process, and even then, a seamless finish is not always guaranteed.
Yes. A gloss paint respray usually costs from a few hundred to over a thousand pounds. Matte paint, on the other hand, is significantly more expensive and also has higher maintenance costs.
Matte paint is expensive to repair, more vulnerable to stains, and allows spills to penetrate more easily, which can damage the surface.
Get a Flawless Matte or Gloss Repair With AVX!
We know that every paint repair is different. That’s why we use tailored strategies depending on the paint type to match the original look of your car. With us, you can be confident, knowing that your vehicle is in safe hands!
