Tips For Maintaining Matte Car Paint And Enhancing It With Auto Detailing
Matte car paint is gaining serious traction, offering a sophisticated and head-turning appeal. It’s velvety low-luster appearance is made possible by its light absorption qualities. Matte paint is, however, more challenging to maintain, requiring a professional car care routine. In this article, we walk you through the top matte maintenance tips and how auto detailing can enhance your matte finish.
What Makes Matte Paint Unique?
Most cars on the road have a traditional clear coat which gives that glossy and shiny finish. The clear coat removes imperfections and creates the smooth, glossy surface that all of us are familiar with. A matte finish, on the other hand, lacks the clear coat. Without this clear coat, the matte finish contains microscopic texturing that scatters light to create its unique non-glossy finish. A matte surface is more prone to collecting contaminants because of its uneven finish. It’s for this reason that a matte paint finish needs to be properly maintained.
How To Maintain Your Matte Paint
Maintaining your matte paint finish is all about prevention, as in the event of paintwork damage, there is little that can be done besides a repaint. Follow these important steps to effectively maintain your matte paint.
Insist On Handwashing
It’s best to forget about automatic car washes, as they can have harsh chemicals and brushes. Automatic car washes will remove sealants, leaving your paintwork compromised. When it comes to good matte paint care, the cleaning chemicals, and the washing technique matter.
Handwashing with a neutral pH-neutral car wash soap will go a long way to protect your matte finish. The soap also shouldn’t contain any glossing agents or waxes.
The two-bucket washing method is a sure way to help prevent scratches, and your cloth is always rinsed, meaning that no dirt or grime is reintroduced onto the paintwork. Using a microfiber cloth will also help prevent surface scratching due to its fine and soft nature.
Dry Gently
As with handwashing, when drying your car after a wash, insist on a microfiber towel over a chamois, which can be abrasive. Chamois’ aren’t able to trap dirt particles due to their lack of microfibers. While using the microfiber cloth, focus on a gentle patting technique as opposed to wiping. Even soft swirls could scratch your matte paintwork.
Battling to dry those hard to reach areas? A leaf blower is a great way to remove water from those hard-to-reach places.
Don’t Polish Or Wax
Polishing and waxing products can not only be abrasive, but they’re also designed to add gloss to your paint finish. This means that your matte finish will be compromised and begin to look more glossy if you polish or wax it. Be sure to speak with your car cleaning specialist about which products are safe to use on your matte finish.
Remove Environmental Contaminants Quickly
Your matte paintwork doesn’t contain the same level of protection as a glossy finish. This means that any bug splatters, bird droppings, and other environmental contaminants should be removed as soon as possible. The uric acid found in bird droppings will eat away at your paintwork, causing stains and effectively burning your paintwork. It’s recommended to only use a high quality matte paint cleaner or pH-neutral soap and water to clean. Remember to blot and not rub when cleaning the affected contaminated area.
Enhance Your Matte Paint With Auto Detailing
Professional auto detailing can totally transform your car. But is auto detailing better than a car wash? Auto detailing doesn’t only clean your car, but it enhances the paintwork too. A trusted auto detailing professional will possess the knowledge and skills needed to level up your matte paint. Here’s a look at the benefits of enhancing your matte paint with auto detailing.
Specialized Cleaning Techniques
Auto detailing specialists utilize advanced cleaning techniques, including low pressure washing and foam cannons, which both remove the risk of scratching your matte finish. Both these techniques remove any harsh or pressurized contact with your paintwork, thereby protecting it. Auto detailing professionals will approach each car they clean with care.
Paint Protection Film (PPF)
A paint protection film provides the ultimate protection for your matte paintwork. A PPF forms a layer to shield your paint from scratches and chips. It will even protect against stains from any environmental contact. Chat to your trusted auto detailing professional about getting a PPF installed on your car.
Ceramic Coatings
Ceramic coatings are another great protective option. These provide a durable, hydrophobic layer that makes cleaning a breeze. By bonding with your car’s paint, ceramic coatings add strength and longevity. As with any coating, be sure to only use a certified auto detailing professional for the best results.
That Forever Dazzling Matte Finish
Investing in regular auto detailing means that your matte paintwork will flourish for years to come. Entrusting your car with the professionals means that you won’t be at risk of any paintwork damage. Experience goes a long way when it comes to maintaining a matte paintwork finish.
Auto Detailing Professionals In Pompano Beach
At Foreign Affairs Motorsports (FAMS), we’re known for our professional auto detailing service. Our team of professionals will take excellent care of your matte paintwork by only using safe and effective treatment methods. Chat to us about a PPF or ceramic coating to further protect your paintwork.
At FAMS, we also offer a full range of auto detailing services for glossy paint finishes, including clay barring and paint correction. Whatever your paint finish, you can trust our expert auto detailing team to protect your investment. Call us at 954-746-0488 to speak to our auto detailing professionals.