Painting your car with regular exterior paint is not typically recommended, but for certain situations, it might be a viable option. This article explores the pros and cons of using regular paint instead of automotive-grade paint, as well as effective alternatives like industrial enamel and tractor paint. We will cover the fundamental reasons why automotive paints are superior and when it might be acceptable to use regular paint.
Why Not Regular Paint?
Automotive paints are specifically formulated to withstand various environmental factors like UV rays, chemicals, and temperature changes. Regular exterior paints, on the other hand, may not offer the same level of durability and could fade or chip more easily over time. Additionally, car surfaces require specific preparation and paint formulations to ensure proper adhesion. Regular paint might not bond well with the car's surface, leading to peeling or flaking. Moreover, automotive paints are designed to provide a smooth, glossy finish that enhances the appearance of the car, which regular exterior paints may not achieve.
Key Differences: Durability, Adhesion, and Finish
Durability: Automotive paints have superior resistance to weathering and chemicals. Regular paints, especially those not designed for outdoor use, may not withstand the long-term exposure to harsh environmental conditions.
Adhesion: Proper adhesion is crucial for a long-lasting paint job. Regular paints may not bond well with car surfaces, leading to issues like peeling or flaking.
Finish: Automotive paints are meticulously formulated to produce a smooth, glossy finish. Regular paint, however, might not achieve the same aesthetic quality, resulting in a subpar appearance.
Using Regular Paint: What to Do?
If you decide to use regular paint, there are steps you can take to improve your results. First, thoroughly prepare the surface by cleaning and degreasing it. Apply a primer designed for metal surfaces to ensure proper adhesion. Finally, apply a clear coat for added protection and shine. These steps can help offset some of the limitations of regular paint, but it is recommended to use automotive-grade paint for the best results.
Alternatives: Industrial Enamel and Tractor Paint
For those seeking an alternative to regular paint, industrial enamel and tractor paint are excellent choices. These paints offer excellent durability and are designed for outdoor use. Industrial enamel is a versatile paint that can be used on a variety of surfaces, including metal, wood, and concrete. Tractor paint comes in pre-mixed standard colors, such as "Ford Blue" and "International Harvester Red," making it easy to find the right color.
Painting a Car with Regular Exterior Paint: A Real-Life Example
Opting to paint a car with regular exterior paint is possible, but it requires careful preparation. In a similar scenario, a painting contractor repainted pre-finished white standing seam metal roofing that had developed patches of rust. The key steps involved pressure washing the panels, applying a cleaning solution to lift bug and bird residue, and treating the rust with Ospho. A good coat of Zinsser's 1–2–3 universal acrylic primer/sealer was applied, followed by two coats of Kelly-Moore's white semi-gloss exterior acrylic house paint. The results were impressive: the roofs remained white and rust-free for 20 years despite exposure to direct sunlight and the elements. The secret to success was ensuring a rough surface for the primer to grip and applying ample primer and top coats to ensure long-term weatherability.
Conclusion
While painting a car with regular exterior paint is not ideal, it can be done with the right preparation. Automotive paints offer superior durability, adhesion, and finish, but for budget-conscious or specific projects, regular paints or alternatives like industrial enamel and tractor paint can be effective. Proper preparation, including surface cleaning, application of primer, and clear coat, can significantly improve the outcome.