It is quite difficult to find an owner of a vehicle who, at least once during the period of operation, was not interested in the issue of painting the body or decorative elements of the body.
One of the most popular paints in this case is light and dark gray metallic. Why such a need arises, what is special about this particular type of paint and how to properly organize this process when everything is done with your own hands will be discussed further.
Reasons and types of painting work
Based on the existing realities of our time, considering a car solely as a means of transportation is fundamentally wrong. The introduction of advanced technologies and design thoughts made the iron horse not only practical and functional, but also allowed it to be used for self-expression in society and among fellow motorists.
The paintwork of a car, whether matte or glossy, plays a huge role in this, performing both decorative and protective functions. Based on this, we can name at least two main reasons that encourage owners to think about painting their personal vehicles.
- Damage to paintwork. This is perhaps the main reason that necessitates the selection and application of paint that has a certain effect (matte or glossy). With such intense traffic, a rapidly increasing number of cars and, unfortunately, poor management culture, dents, scratches, chips, etc. are a common thing for any driver.
- New design. Despite the fact that painting a car matte or glossy light gray is a rather expensive and time-consuming procedure, there are car enthusiasts who spare no expense or effort to transform the color of their vehicle.
The type of painting classification is formed depending on its volume. Local. It is carried out if the reason for painting is the restoration of paintwork on some part of the body (for example, a scratch or a small dent on the fender, bumper, etc.).
In this case, there is no need to cover large areas or completely repaint the element. A fragment of the body is prepared (cleaned, puttied, primed), and when painting, the rest of the car is protected with film.
Partial. It is carried out if damage to the paintwork does not allow it to be restored in place. In this case, the damaged body element (for example, bumper, fender, door) is dismantled, completely cleared of the old coating, and its geometry is restored. Only after this is it painted in a light or dark gray matte color or metallic.
Information! Full painting is most often performed when the goal of the process is to create a fundamentally new design.
Black metallic: paint features
Black metallic, like white and silver, is now one of the most popular. By the way, psychologists are sure that this color is chosen by people with leadership qualities, respectability and good taste. Due to their special representativeness, black cars are especially popular in Germany, Europe, and Russia.
This color is also considered the best background for creating inscriptions. Any airbrush looks very expensive and impressive on a black background.
Metallic car paint, unlike traditional ones, has a higher level of body protection. A car treated with such enamel has better protection against fading, corrosion and chipping. And at the same time, owners of black cars complain that after just a few months of using the car, a so-called cobweb appears on the surface of the car, as well as abrasions. In addition, black color reduces the size of the car (of course, only visually). Black metallic bodywork requires polishing more often than any other.
Differences between metallic car paint
Analyzing car paints and their characteristics, we can conditionally divide them according to the structure of the surface layer into those that have a matte or glossy color. If we consider the issue in terms of mass production, then the vast majority of models will have a metallic coating. The special shine effect of the car surface is achieved through individual paint additives. Among the main active ingredients are zinc, copper, aluminum, and brass pigments.
Interesting! Sunlight hitting such paint is reflected from metal particles, creating a feeling of shine (a matte shade does not have this effect).
In both mass and artisanal production, coatings with light gray and any other metallic can be divided into three types depending on the thickness and number of layers.
| Coating | Peculiarities |
| Single layer. | This paint contains varnish. This is the simplest option, but often visible defects (drips, bubbles, etc.) arise during the painting process. |
| Two-layer. | The paint is applied in two layers with a drying pause after each of them. This is the most common option, giving a mechanically resistant glossy finish. |
| Three-layer. | Not a very common type of painting due to its technical complexity. It can give an interesting pearlescent tint. |
Expert opinion
Ilya Vyacheslavovich
Consultant for body repair at krasymavto.ru
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The number of pigment elements, as well as their shape and relative position in the total mass of paint affect the degree of gloss.
For example, a light silver tint is obtained if the particles are located at a certain angle to the horizon (the angle of reflection is different).
Composition of conventional car enamels
Before talking about the features of metallic, it is necessary to remember the composition of ordinary ordinary enamel. It consists of three basic components:
- dye;
- connecting link;
- solvent.
The dye, or pigment, is a composition in the form of a fine powder. This is the component that forms the color of the paint. In addition, pigments may have other properties. Thus, some dyes can additionally protect the body surface from corrosion.
The binder refers to the layer that holds the powdered dye on the surface. When the process is completed and the enamel has dried, it is due to this connecting link that an even shiny layer is formed on the painted surface.
The main task performed by the solvent is to make the paint liquid. This is necessary for more convenient application of it to the body. After all, as a rule, paint is applied using sprayers. Although these components occupy a considerable amount of space in the enamel, its main function is still the dissolution of paint. In addition, after finishing painting, the composition should quickly evaporate from the surface. And often car enamels manufacturers use quickly evaporating liquids as solvents.
We have listed the main components of traditional car enamels, which are used to paint most cars as standard. And then we will look at how metallic paint for cars differs from them.
Popular gray colors and selection methods
The classification based on color is much broader. The problem of choosing the color and shade of paint affects every motorist who, either forced or of his own free will, decides to paint body parts.
Obviously, the most problems arise when local or partial staining is required. In this case, the paint has to be selected to match the existing paint coating, and this is a rather difficult task.
In practice, there are three main ways to determine color:
- Approximately. A special palette is used to compare shades. The chance of making a wrong choice in this case is quite high.
- By VIN code, body number. The color and type of coating are usually included in the identification number located on a special plate (nameplate), which is unique for each car.
- In a special software environment. Mathematical algorithms allow you to most accurately determine the required color, hue, depth, and saturation.
Light or dark gray is the most problematic color to select, so a computer program is indispensable.
The silver shade is statistically the most popular. It combines not only neatness and attractiveness, but is also quite good in practical terms, since it hides scratches better than others.
Advantages and disadvantages
In terms of its user properties, enamel with aluminum powder is no different from ordinary enamel, so metallic-painted facades have all the advantages and disadvantages of this type of kitchen. But the decorative qualities are somewhat different.
Advantages
- the surface is completely smooth, so cleaning it is very easy;
- You can use any household products for care;
- the coating is repairable. Of course, it may be necessary to repaint the entire sash if it is badly damaged, but this is a completely doable procedure;
- on metallics of any color - green, red or purple, fingerprints are much less visible. So you don’t have to rub the facades so thoroughly;
- You can paint metallic enamel not only on a flat surface, but also on a milled surface.
Using only one metallic color - garnet, champagne, cinnamon, blue or any other, in a couple of days, taking into account the drying time of the primer and paint, you can turn laminated old-fashioned facades into a modern, brilliant version in the neo-baroque style.
Flaws
- the cost of painted facades is higher than any other MDF options;
- direct sunlight may change color.
Subtleties of applying a two-layer metallic shade
Painting a car yourself with light gray or any other metallic is quite a responsible undertaking. To achieve the desired result, you must strictly follow all recommendations and the order of work.
First of all, you should prepare the required surface for painting. It all depends on the scope of the problems or what goals are being pursued. If this is local or partial painting, then the surface must be cleaned from the old coating to the base metal.
Important! This is a mandatory condition, since putty, primer, and paint contain solvents, which can ultimately lead to the new coating peeling off along with the old one.
Next, the surface is straightened and puttied to restore the original geometry. Next, a layer of primer is applied to ensure the necessary adhesion to the paint.
Expert opinion
Ilya Vyacheslavovich
Consultant for body repair at krasymavto.ru
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If there are pockets of corrosion, a special anti-corrosion primer is applied before puttingty.
After this, the actual painting of the car begins. In the case of a two-layer metallic, the base is applied first, and after some time the finishing varnish is applied. Basic gray paint is applied in 2-3 layers.
There is a pause between layers to allow the coating to dry. An additional indicator of readiness can be a matte color - this means that the solvent has evaporated. The varnish is also applied in 2-3 approaches, which allows each layer to dry.
After the painted surface has completely dried, the car is ready for use.
From bicycle to car
A similar composition in the USSR was not used on car bodies. In the USSR, “Victory” and “Volga” cars were treated with simple colors - white, gray, beige. Metallic came to the big country on bicycle frames produced in Kharkov. The frames sparkled with aluminum powder, reflecting rays of light from under a thick film of enamel. It was nothing more than a first generation single coat metallic. It differed in that aluminum powder was contained throughout the entire thickness of the paint, which was approximately 50 microns.
Judging by the reviews, this paint was considered interesting back then. But many were put off by its weak resistance to various influences. During use, it also wore out - the powder oxidized and went with the wind. The surface acquired dull white shades. In order to avoid this, experts have developed a two-layer system. A clear varnish was applied over the paint.
This is how two-layer metallic was born. The paint turned out to be more durable and durable, as well as effective. The varnish served as a magnifying glass. Then the paint began to be used for cars.
Silver metallic: features
According to car enthusiasts, if silver metallic paint is applied to the body, the car will not lose its color when exposed to sunlight and will not overheat. Even scratches are barely noticeable in this shade. This coating, which shimmers in the sun, looks very rich. And as a nice bonus - additional body protection.
Silver color, according to most, looks expensive and prestigious.
If you don’t like too conservative black, then, as experts advise, gray or silver can perfectly replace it. This is a neutral shade. It is well suited for both a family car and a purely female or male one.
Examples of interiors in metallic color
The easiest way is to find examples on the Internet with metallic colors for high-tech and minimalist style. Options for moderate addition of detail are also present, you should review the designs in advance. Perhaps they will inspire changes in the interior.
Metallic shades seem captivating and can be used in a variety of designs.
Metallic shades seem captivating and can be used in a variety of designs. But you should monitor the quantity so as not to end up with non-residential premises in which you will not want to be.
Use in interior decoration
What to cover the walls, ceiling and floor is decided first of all. They serve as the basis and require special attention when choosing material and color. There are unusual effects that can be achieved by choosing metallic paint.
The walls serve as the basis and require special attention when choosing material and color.
Ceiling, floor and walls
There should not be a lot of paint on the walls, otherwise the room will not be cozy. You can select one zone and draw a horizontal line along the walls to emphasize the style.
Stretch ceilings in silver will help make the room more voluminous; when the lights are turned on, the glare will play mesmerizingly. You can use color on the floor, but add a different shade of rug for warmth.
Stretch ceilings in silver will help make the room more voluminous; when the lights are turned on, the glare will play mesmerizingly.
The use of metallic color in design
White metallic paint and other shades used to obtain a reflective surface with a characteristic shine should be added to the design in doses so as not to lose comfort and not make the room look like a warehouse. The choice of elements will depend on the purpose of the room.
The choice of elements will depend on the purpose of the room.
Living room
In a living room in black and white, it is appropriate to add small accents in this color; this could be the upholstery of a sofa, armchair, or pouf. Or elements on other furniture. Curtains with a sparkling sheen of fabric will also look appropriate.
In this case, they usually use a minimalist or high-tech style, where you can feel like a person who has moved into the future.
In a living room in black and white, it is appropriate to add small accents in this color.
Bedroom
The bedroom requires the creation of coziness and warmth; you should not use an excessive amount of metallic here. You can choose upholstery for the headrest for a bed in gray, but the main background should be warmer, inducing sleep.
Designer accessories that are sure to attract attention, but will not overload with cold shine, will look interesting.
The bedroom requires the creation of coziness and warmth; you should not use an excessive amount of metallic here.
Kitchen
In the kitchen, metallic can become the main one. The facade of the headset is glossy and with metallic tints will look impressive. Paint is added to the chairs and table, but dilution is necessary; dishes that have aged are suitable for this. Or elements in the color of brass, copper, gold that carry warmth.
The facade of the headset is glossy and with metallic tints will look impressive.
Bathroom
White sanitary ware can be complemented with handles and other chrome elements; towel holders in a similar color are also used. You can make vertical or horizontal lines from metallic tiles.
White sanitary ware can be complemented with handles and other chrome elements; towel holders in a similar color are also used.
Hallway
Gray and white tones are good for this room because of the low lighting, but are impractical because they stain. Therefore, the option is chosen for mirror frames, from which light will be reflected interestingly, hangers, hooks. You can also put a metallic ottoman on which it will be convenient to change shoes.
The option is chosen for mirror frames, from which light will be reflected interestingly, hangers, hooks.
