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The Evolution of Car Paint

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The paint job of a car is the first thing that catches the eye—at least it. Cars with a dull and faded paint job will seem outdated even if it’s in great shape.

On the other hand, sleek, clean cars tend to draw attention. Chrome finishes further beautify the car, giving it a high-end profile. Modern car paint has come a long way from where it started.

vintage car

However, even today, cars are susceptible to paint damage. Damage to paint not only degrades the value of the vehicle but also ruins the aesthetics. In fact, a smooth paint job is one of the top ten things people check when buying a used car. But when did it all start?

Early Days – Hand Painting with Varnishes

The story of car paint goes back to the early 1900s. This was the time when cars were painted by hand using paints purchased from local stores. This paint job would fade away very quickly so repainting was an inconvenience.

Automobile manufacturers started using varnishes applied on carriages. However, this was a long and exhausting process and could take up to 40 days. Furthermore, sanding and polishing were done after the paint had dried.

Discovery of Chrome-Plating

George Sargent, a chemist, published his pioneering research work on chrome-plating in 1920. He laid out the process that would later become the basis for the commercial plating process that dominated the early decades of 20th century.

By this time, Ford Motor had replaced varnishes and was using paints that took less time to dry. In the four years that followed, two technological advancements changed the landscape of car paint for good.

classic red car

Commercialization of Chrome Electroplating

George Sargent’s work was used by two gentlemen of Columbia University in 1924 to discover the commercial process of chrome electroplating.

Age of Chrome – Spray Guns and Silver Sprays

Around the same time, spray guns appeared and changed the game forever. Car paint jobs became quicker and the applied finish was uniform throughout. The total time it took for a paint job was down to one-third of the original.  

A silvering spray was also invented, speeding up the production of mirrors all over the world.  Stoving enamels were being used to make the paints more glossy and shiny.

However, the best step in the evolution of car paint was yet to come.

Age of Acrylics – Paint and Bake!

By the 1950s, General Motors was using a new acrylic paint. This new paint required baking after application. Although the finish wasn’t very glossy, the consistency of the paint was revolutionary.

Soon enough, Ford Motor was using stoving enamels consisting acrylic. The car paint job by this time was durable, consistent, and shiny. Since spray guns were used for this process, the paint job was cost-effective and quicker than ever before.

The 1980s – Polyurethane and Urethane

By the late 1980s, manufacturers wanted car paints that were more durable and dried easily. The use of urethane and polyurethane became common. The number of coats applied was also going up to improve the shine and durability.

Modern Day – Electro-coating

Nowadays, processes like electro-coating are in the mainstream, which is being done completely through automation except for polishing and final inspection.

man wearing mask

The history of car paint, and how it all started—from hand painting varnishes—and underwent such technological advancements, is fascinating, to say the least.

Car owners in need of a new paint job should reach out to Deol Auto; one of the best auto repair services in Edmonton. We provide a comprehensive range of auto services and quality branded tires as well.

Categories: Auto Repair 101 | View Count: (84) | Return

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