The Art of Paint Correction: Dispelling Common Misconceptions

As car enthusiasts and owners, we understand the immense importance of maintaining the pristine appearance of our vehicles. One essential aspect of car care that often comes into play is paint correction. At Flatirons Detailing, based in beautiful Denver, Colorado, we specialize in the art of paint correction to restore and enhance the beauty of your vehicle’s paintwork. However, there are many misconceptions surrounding paint correction that we would like to address and dispel.  

To begin, we believe that using the term “buffing” to describe paint correction can sometimes oversimplify the process and lead to misconceptions about the level of skill and effort involved. Therefore, it is important for detailing professionals like ourselves to educate our clients about the various steps involved in paint correction, and the benefits of a thorough and meticulous approach to achieving flawless results. While “buffing” is often used colloquially to describe polishing, it’s important to recognize that this is a comprehensive process that requires skill, thousands of dollars in equipment, and an optimal chemical arsenal to achieve impeccable results. Rotary polishers and Dual Action (DA) polishers are two primary tools utilized in this process; each offering unique advantages and considerations regarding efficiency and precision when performing paint correction. Paint correction typically involves paint inspection which assesses the condition to identify imperfections & paint depth, a washing/decontamination phase, paint correction/polishing phase, and finally, and a protective sealant application such as a ceramic coating. By harnessing the power of frictional force through carefully selected compounds, pads, and tools, we are able to transform the appearance and visual depth of a vehicle’s paintwork.

While it is true that one of the primary goals of paint correction is to eliminate scratches, it is certainly not the only purpose. Paint correction involves a multi-step process that also addresses swirl marks, oxidation, water-spotting, and similar imperfections apparent in the paint. By carefully leveling the surface of the paint by use of frictional force, we can generally achieve a smooth & glossy finish that enhances the overall appearance of the vehicle. Another common misconception is that paint correction is harmful and thins the clear coat surface. While it is true that aggressive polishing or “cutting” techniques can remove a thin layer of clear coat, our experienced and well-versed detailers use gentle yet effective methods to minimize the risk of damage. At Flatirons, we prioritize the preservation of your vehicle’s paint and always aim to achieve the best possible results without compromising it’s integrity.

Contrary to popular belief, paint correction is not a quick and simple procedure. It requires skill, patience, and attention to detail to achieve optimal results. Depending on the extent of the damage within the paint/clear-coat, and the size of the vehicle, the process can take 6-8 hours or even several days to complete properly. Rushing through a paint correction can lead to subpar results and may even cause further damage to the paintwork. While there are DIY paint correction kits available on the market, we strongly advise against attempting paint correction yourself, especially if you lack experience and proper training. Without the necessary skills, equipment, and chemicals, DIY attempts can results in irreversible damage to the paintwork, ultimately leading to a full respray which can cost thousands of dollars. Trusting the experts ensures that your vehicle receives professional-grade care & attention, yielding superior results.