How To Do Paint Correction: Paint Correction 101
Introduction
So, you want to start offering paint correction as a service? I mean - not a bad idea right? Isn’t paint correction one of the highest ticket items regarding detailing services? However, be prepared for failure, trial and error, maybe some burn throughs, and discouragement. I’ve gotten where I am because I would eat, sleep, and sh**t paint correction - and guess what? There is always more to learn, and always room for improvement. When I started - I had burned through paint, had frustrating moments, and gotten close to throwing in the towel and quitting - but now, I am extremely comfortable around paint and have countless corrections under my belt. Becoming a pro is not simple and is not for the easily discouraged - so if you're up for it… grab a chair.
The difference in motion between rotary and dual action
Supplies
Now, since this is Paint Correction 101 and you're just starting out - I’m going to recommend for you to pick up a Dual action polisher. Dual action polishers are easier to pick up and learn with than a rotary polisher. “How are they different” you ask? Well, a dual action polisher not only spins in a circle, but it also rotates around a pivot point and has a “throw” to it - you can view the difference in motion in picture above. Dual action polishers can cut, and finish. Generally speaking, rotary polisher
Prep
Now, a huge part of paint correction is going to be prep. Before you even think of grabbing a polisher, you need to make sure you have a clean canvas. You need to make sure the car is as clean and decontaminated as possible. This means washing the car thoroughly, using brushes to clean in between emblems, cracks and crevices. Clay the car thoroughly and use an iron remover to remove any contamination on the vehicle. Because, if you were to skip the decon phase - your pad is going to pick all that contamination up and hinder/affect your results. You can go as far as using some detailing swabs to clean in between window seals, cracks, crevices, and weather stripping. Utilize steam on crevices that are extremely soiled. After the car is thoroughly dried, you can take some masking tape, and tape off any plastic trim. Voila! Your car is now prepped and ready for correction work.
Paint Correction
Now, there are different types of paint correction we offer in the industry. Since this is introduction to paint corrections lets cover the 2 most common types of paint correction - The 1 step and the 2 step.