Picture this: your neighbour comes back one evening with his car shining like a mirror because he had just repainted it; you wish it was yours. Less than a month later, the paint starts fading and peeling. You wonder what could have gone wrong.
In this post, we will discuss the different types of car paints that perfectly fit the Nigerian conditions and how you can maintain them for longevity.
Types of Car Paints
Here are the types of car paints, their features, sustainability, pros and cons.
1. Acrylic Paint
Acrylic paint is water-based and provides a shiny finish. It’s easy to apply, hence usually used in DIY processes.
Pros: It is inexpensive, easy to work with for first-timers, and dries fast.
Cons: It is less durable compared to others and fades out quickly in high sunlight.
Best Use in Nigeria: It should be used in quick fixes or cars that are not used too often in the city.
2. Metallic Paint
These are paints that contain tiny metal particles in their formula, which gives them a shiny reflective look.
Pros: It looks premium on the surface and can mask small scratches well.
Cons: It is more difficult to repair once damaged and more expensive as well.
Best Use in Nigeria: Suitable for city cars where style is important, like Lagos or Abuja.
3. Urethane Paint
Urethane paint is really strong and flexible, able to closely mimic the look of other paint types.
Pros: It is durable, UV resistant, and excellent for extreme weather conditions.
Cons: It is costlier and must be professionally applied.
Best Use in Nigeria: Ideal for those cars that would have to stay under extremely hot weather, such as in the northern states.
4. Clear Coat Paint
Clear coat paint is not a colour but a layer that is applied on top of base paint to give it a glossy look and durability.
Pros: It is designed to give protection against UV rays, dirt, and minor scratches.
Cons: It requires constant maintenance to preserve its shiny appearance.
Best Use in Nigeria: It is a must for every car paint to protect against harsh conditions that may destroy the base paint.
Why is the Climate in Nigeria Bad for Car Paint?
Every region faces one thing or the other. Nigeria’s case is not different. Below are some of the factors that make car paints not last long in Nigeria.
1. Intense Sunlight
Have you been to Kano and Maiduguri before? The sun has the potential to make cheap paints fade out within a short period. It is recommended to use UV-resistant urethane or metallic finishes.
2. Heavy Rainfall
The coastal areas, such as Lagos, Port Harcourt, etc., record high levels of rainfall. This calls for paints that are very water-resistant in such areas.
3. Dust and Dirt
Fine dust particles scratch paint surfaces in all states, whether Abuja or Enugu. This can be taken care of by clear coats, which protect the paint from abrasions.
4. Road Conditions
We will both agree that potholes, debris, and narrow streets are things we see every day in the country. They cause scratches on car paint, making newly painted vehicles look old.
Why KAPCI Paints Are the Top Choice for Nigerian Cars
For over the years, Fidel Associates Limited, the most trusted KAPCI Paints distributor in Nigeria, has provided answers to durability in vehicles with their paint. The reason KAPCI Paints is top in quality and suitability can be traced to the following:
- It is designed to withstand Nigeria’s harsh weather and terrible road conditions.
- It has diverse products for every vehicle and budget, from metallic finishes to durable clear coats.
- It is cost-effective, as high-quality paints will save you money in the long run since it cuts down on repainting.
Ways to Select the Right Car Paint in Nigeria
These are things you should consider when getting car paint or when trying to repaint your vehicle.
- Determine if your car is for commercial or personal use. Commercial vehicles may require more durable options like urethane paint.
- Consider the climate you are in. For northern states, UV-resistant options should be your priority. For coastal regions, the focus should be on water-resistant paints.
- Budget wisely. While cheaper paints like acrylic may save you a little money upfront, durable options like urethane or metallic are considered better regarding long-term savings.
- Ensure you add a clear coat, irrespective of the paint type you are going for. This increases durability and brilliance.
- Seek expert advice. Feel free to consult professionals at Fidel Associates for a tailored approach to your vehicle’s needs.
How to Care for Your Car Paint in Nigeria
If you are a constant visitor to this page, you will notice that I love giving this bonus section. It is because I feel that every car owner in Nigeria deserves to know how to care for their car paint.
Read the following carefully:
- Wash Regularly: This helps to remove dust, mud, and debris that can harm the paint.
- Park in the Shade: This helps to protect your car from the scorching Nigerian sun whenever possible.
- Wax and Polish: Waxing every three months preserves the shine and adds an extra layer of protection.
- Fix Scratches Promptly: There is no need to ignore the scratches. Address them quickly to prevent them from worsening.
Conclusion
In conclusion, remember that the selection of car paint is not only a matter of colour but also one of durability and protection.
Visit Fidel Associates Limited today to explore our wide range of KAPCI paints and give your car the protection it deserves.