Failure to understand the step-by-step guide to applying a KAPCI clear coats is the reason your car paint loses its shine quickly after using the coat. Now, allow me to walk you through the application process to ensure that there is a longer durability as well as a deep gloss.
Before now, we’ve established that choosing a car paint is not just about aesthetics, but also durability and protection especially if you stay in Nigeria where the weather conditions are not that favorable to automotive paints.
Now, it is somehow that even after choosing the best brand of paint in the market, it begins to fade or peel within months. In our Nigerian slang, we can say that it breaks the heart. But if you dig in further, you begin to discover that the real cause of the fading and peeling is not just quality, but improper application of the clear coat and harsh weather conditions.
The improper application makes the paint lose its shine, durability, and other things it should have given in a short while, and this is what I’ve come to show you with this article – how to apply car paints for a longer-lasting shine with a focus on KAPCI clear coats.
We will explore why you should choose KAPCI clear coats, how to prepare the car for the application, how to mix the KAPCI clear coat, and many others. Read through carefully, you are about to learn a lot.
Let’s proceed!
KAPCI Clear Coats – Why and Benefits?
If you are still wondering why we at Fidel Associates Limited recommend KAPCI paints, read below carefully.
KAPCI clear coats perform two main purposes:
The first is protection that shields the basecoat from UV, dirt, and harsh weather. The next is the improved gloss which gives the car a showroom gloss.
It also comes in different types for different purposes. They are:
· KAPCI 6030 HS Clear Coat – High-solid, scratch-resistant, and long-lasting.
· KAPCI 6050 2K Clear Coat – Fast-drying with a rich gloss finish.
· KAPCI 6250 Express Clear Coat – Perfect for quick refinishing application.
You can choose any of the KAPCI clear coats depending on your vehicle type, environmental exposure, and finish required.
Preparing the Vehicle to Apply Clear Coat
Good preparation is the secret to achieving a professional, long-lasting finish. Follow these instructions:
1. Clean the Surface Thoroughly
· Wash the vehicle using a mild cleaning detergent to eliminate dirt, oil, and residue.
· Use KAPCI Degreaser to strip wax or grease residues.
· Dry the surface completely before proceeding.
2. Sand the Basecoat for Good Adhesion
· Sand the surface lightly with wet sandpaper (I recommend 1200-1500 grit). This enables the clear coat to stick well and gives a smooth, even finish.
· Wipe the surface clean with a microfiber cloth to remove dust.
KAPCI Clear Coat Mixing for Best Results
KAPCI clear coats must be mixed accurately in order to have the proper consistency. Below are some of the recommended ratios:
· KAPCI 6030 HS Clear Coat: Mix 2 parts of clear coat to 1-part hardener.
· KAPCI 6050 2K Clear Coat: Mix 2 parts of clear coat to 1-part hardener. Add 10% thinner when necessary.
· KAPCI 6250 Express Clear Coat: Mix 2 parts of clear coat to 1-part hardener for fast drying.
When mixing these clear coats, it is advisable that you use a clean mixing container and stir well for a minimum of 2 minutes for even blending.
Application of KAPCI Clear Coat: The Proper Technique
Here comes the main deal. I hope you are still with me to this point. Just as we agreed earlier, proper application technique is required to achieve a smooth, even, and long-lasting finish. Here are the step-by-step procedures.
1. Choose Proper Spray Gun Settings
· Consider using a 1.3mm – 1.4mm spray gun tip for even flow.
· Set air pressure to 25-30 psi for optimal atomization.
· Practice spraying on some cardboard before spraying the vehicle.
2. Spray the Clear Coat Thin Layers
· Spray at 6-8 inches from surface.
· Spray the first coat in a light misting pattern, covering the entire panel.
· Wait for about 5-10 minutes before applying the second coat.
3. Use Overlapping Strokes for an Even Finish
· Overlap every stroke by 50% to avoid streaks or uneven areas.
· Maintain the speed of the spray gun consistently.
· Apply 2-3 coats based on the level of gloss desired.
Curing and Drying the Clear Coat
Now, it is also important to note that proper drying is required to have the solid, durable finish that you want. Here are the best procedures to dry the clear coat.
· Let the clear coat flash dry for 10 – 15 minutes between coats.
· After the final coat, air-dry the vehicle for 24 – 48 hours before subjecting it to harsh conditions.
· To hasten up the curing process, utilize an infrared curing lamp or 60°C baking oven for 30 minutes.
Polishing for a Showroom Finish
After the clear coat is dry, polishing provides it with shine. These are the steps you should take to polish.
· Eliminate minor imperfections with KAPCI 9060 Polishing Compound.
· Use a dual-action polisher or microfiber pad (if you are using a hand)
· Buff in a circular pattern until the surface is covered with a deep gloss.
How to Maintain the Clear Coat for a Long-Lasting Shine?
After you’ve followed all the processes I listed above, the result will be an excellent shining vehicle, but then how do you maintain that? Do the following below.
· Wash the car regularly with pH-neutral car wash shampoo.
· Stay clear of scratch-inducing abrasive sponges that can scratch the surface.
· Wax at least every 3 months for extra protection.
· Park under shades to prevent direct UV light from the sun.
Conclusion
Correct application of KAPCI clear coats is the key to a durable, high-gloss finish that will endure Nigeria’s extreme weather. From correct surface preparation to professional spraying methods, every step counts.
I’m glad you’ve learned a lot through this article. Please contact Fidel Associates Limited today for authentic KAPCI products, expert advice, and competitive pricing.
