The Dangers of Auto Insurance DRP’s

So your car has been in an accident and it needs repairs. You’ve filed a claim with your insurance provider and followed all the correct steps. Your insurance provider offered you a Direct Repair Program or DRP body shop who they will deal with directly. It seems like a good choice right?

Not always. DRP body shops have often been known to cut corners when repairing your vehicle. This spares them expenses and time of your repair.

Direct Repair Program

DRP programs were developed by insurance providers to shrink their costs of collision and body repair. To make sure that a steady flow of work from referrals comes in, the shop usually accepts lower labor rates and shorter procedures and quality checks. As an example, they might agree to use lesser parts in order to make sure that the insurance company pays less for a repair. Additionally, other typical repair procedures may be left out by the shop so that the job can be completed faster and in a more inexpensive manner.

Going with a Repair shop that doesn’t cut corners

When you are deciding which body shop to go to based on estimates, think about this: Insurance DRP estimates are generally lower because they take shortcuts like not blending adjacent panels for a color match or using non manufacturer parts for all parts of the repair. Go with a shop that uses tried and true methods like fully color matching repaired auto body panels and using the highest quality auto parts available for repair. The estimate might be higher but the repair will be safe and help your vehicle last longer.

A good auto body repair shop is not focused on the “quicker is better” mantra. For example, to save time a DRP shop will often tape of moldings and emblems instead of taking them off the vehicle. This is faster but it can result in a raised paint line running over the length of the molding or handle. This is not the correct way to handle that repair. Insurance companies should want to reduce costs but not at the expense of your vehicles value and long-term life.

D&I Body Shop, your trusted source for high quality repairs

At D&I Auto Body, we will never compromise the value of your vehicle with inferior or dangerous repairs. By the time you turn your lease in or trade in your car, the dealer will recognize the difference between a good and bad repair. The price they offer you for your car will be reflected in it. So don’t accept inferior repairs and come to D&I body shop.

More about D&I Body Shop, Inc.

1779 Marietta Blvd NW
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 885-9575
www.dandibodyshopandglass.com

Restoring Classic Cars with Quality Paint & Body Work

Some people golf and others play tennis, but if you're a car lover, restoring a classic car to it's previous glory can be a huge, yet totally rewarding, undertaking.

While you may be an expert at getting that engine revving and lovingly restoring that leather interior, there are some things that are best left to the experts.

Hammering out dents and dings from years of service and getting a custom paint job can mean the difference between a beautiful, classic ride and a clunky old beater. So which jobs are better left to the pros?

Automotive Body Work

While you may consider yourself an expert at getting that old car beautiful again, there are just some dents and dings that you can't fix. They may have been long-standing problems that will require some sanding to get rid of rust, or they may be large enough where your home tools just won't do the job. Make a list of what needs looking at and visit your trusted professional auto body shop. They will be able to give you an estimate on the costs and go over with you exactly what needs to be done.

Restoring A Paint Job

If your classic car has seen its share of road time, chances are it may be suffering from fading, scratches or other elements that can take away from its original paint job. However, that doesn't mean you have to live with it. Getting a classic car a gorgeous new paint job can immediately make the car look showroom new. Additionally, why not think about some added details, such as pinstripes, flames or other elements that will really set your wheels apart from the others.

There's a saying that if you're going to do a job right, do it yourself. However, this isn't true when it comes to restoring a classic car to its former glory. Calling in the professionals to ensure you get the best look is never a bad idea. When you're planning a classic restoration job, be sure to leave room in your budget to consult with the pros. They may even have ideas and suggestions that you haven't even thought about.

More about D&I Body Shop, Inc.
1779 Marietta Blvd NW
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 885-9575
www.dandibodyshopandglass.com

Ways to Revitalize the Look of Your Car

Have you found yourself dreaming of a shiny new car lately? Do you feel like you're falling out of love with your current set of wheels because it's just not what it used to be looks-wise? Don't plunk down your hard-earned cash for a new car just yet -- chances are, your current ride just needs a bit of a face lift. By taking a little time to give your car a little TLC, you might be surprised at how much life your automobile has left in it. So where's the best place to start?

1) Dent Removal

As your car goes through it's normal life, chances are it's going to get a bit of wear and tear just from normal road conditions. Extreme temperatures, minor fender benders and even salt and grit during the winter months can all leave their mark on your car, making it look less than impressive on the road. Instead of learning to live with those small dents and scrapes, why not get them fixed? Removing those dents and dings helps to get rid of those wrinkles of age your car might be showing, leaving you with a showroom-fresh looking car.

2) Paint Job

As you car spends most of its time outside, it's only natural that its paint job may fade with time and exposure. The harsh sun and other weather conditions can cause fading, and a general less-than-shiny appearance. Additionally, you might have bought that color that was hot back in the early 00's and might be looking for something a little more updated. Getting a quality car paint job for your car can breathe new life into it, making it shine like new.

3) Headlight Restoration

Not every element of getting your car up-to-scratch has to be expensive or time consuming, either. In fact, something as simple as getting a simple headlight restoration can really improve your car's looks in very little time. Have you noticed that your headlights are looking a bit foggy or frosty? This comes with natural wear on your car, and small scratches that you're not even able to see. A headlight restoration will have it looking like you've had a new pair of headlights put in, and the results can be surprisingly uplifting for your car's overall appearance.

Before you elect to ditch that set of wheels, try looking into what you can do to improve its looks first. Things you can do range from the simple to the more involved, but the results are sure to impress. Speak to your car professional today for all the latest ideas.

More about D&I Body Shop, Inc.
1779 Marietta Blvd NW
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 885-9575
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Auto Glass: The Manufacturing Process

Have you ever wondered how the glass in your car is different from the glass that’s fitted to the windows of your home? How do they make it so sturdy? While getting chips and knicks every once in awhile may lead you to believe that auto glass isn’t very strong at all, it’s actually designed to withstand all sorts of weights and pressures as you drive. From that pothole you didn’t see all the way to that mega-bug that flies into your screen at 60 miles per hour, auto glass is a wonder to behold. But how do they do it?

The Two Types of Glass

There are generally two types of glass that are used when car manufacturers are creating the safe surroundings of your car. Both of these types of glass are referred to as “safety glass,” as they break into smaller pieces rather than the large, dangerous shards that the windows in your house might break into. The first type of glass is called laminated glass, which is predominantly used for windshields. The second type of glass is called tempered glass, which is used for the other areas of the car.

How’s It Done?

Windshield glass, or laminated glass, is created by squeezing a layer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) between two pieces of glass, which is then sealed through heat and pressure. This causes a strong chemical bond in the glass, allowing the glass resistance to breakage during impact. Incidentally, it also blocks up to 95% of ultraviolet rays from the sun. Tempered glass also receives a heating treatment, but is then rapidly cooled, which stresses the glass into having approximately 10 times the strength of normal glass for your automobile's windshield.

The Safety Factor

You might not think about your automobile glass very much, but it’s actually part of the safety equipment in your vehicle. Without reinforced glass, every time you shut your car door or even hit a speed bump, you’d be faced with yet another crack or break. By not allowing the windows to shatter into large shards, it also protects the vehicle occupants from additional cuts. However, failing to get a knick or chip in your auto glass repaired, particularly in the windshield area, can cause a destabilization factor, which can lead to a less safe ride. If you notice something, it’s better to get it fixed right away than to wait for a major crack to form.

More about D&I Body Shop, Inc.
1779 Marietta Blvd NW
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 885-9575
www.dandibodyshopandglass.com

4 Reasons You May Need Auto Body Repair

Is there anything sadder than a dent in your ride? There are many reasons why you may need to go visit your local auto body shop for a repair, with some more common than the other. Having a reliable auto body shop on your side is essential as a car owner. Not only can auto body work keep your car looking great, it can also offer preventative measures should you notice small scratches or spots of rust. What are some of the most common reasons you might need the services of an auto body shop?

1) You've been in a fender bender.

Probably the number one reason people seek out auto body repair is due to an accident they've had. This can either be serious, or just a minor ding. While it may be tempting to try to put off any repairs, even minor scratches from an accident can eventually turn in to larger scale problems, like rust or corrosion.

2) You've noticed some post-winter problems.

The winter can really take its toll on your car's paint job and body work. There's corrosion from salt and scratches from that essential gravel that's everywhere around. Getting your car a yearly check-up is important after a particularly tough winter, so take the time to look everywhere for potential problems. Failing to act on even a tiny scratch can be a serious rust repair later on down the road.

3) Your car just isn't what it used to be.

Have you fallen out of love with the look of your car? Have the dents, dings and fading paint made it difficult for you to want to give it the same love and attention you used to when you first bought it? Auto body repair shops can offer a whole range of solutions to rev up the look of your car, from buffering out scratches to a whole new paint job. Speak to your auto body repair shop to find out what's available, and what it can do to improve your car's looks.

4) You're restoring an old car.

Many people across the country love the look and style of old cars, and fixing up that old piece of junk has become a much-loved hobby. However, there are some elements to professional car restoration that should be left to a professional. Dents and dings in the body work, as well as other elements to the body of your car, will generally always come out better if left to the pros. After all, you want all that work to mean something, right?

More about D&I Body Shop, Inc.
1779 Marietta Blvd NW
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 885-9575
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Watch That Crack! The Importance Of Quick Auto Glass Repair

There’s nothing worse than hearing that tell-tale crack while you’re on the road. The next thing you know, your windshield has a small chip or a crack. No big deal, right? Wrong. Failing to fix your chipped or cracked auto glass can only result in a future expensive repair. Sure, you may get away with it for a little while. However, there are many factors that could easily leave you dealing with a much bigger mess, or even a dangerous driving situation, should you continue to ignore it.

Cracks & Chips Hate The Cold

Getting a chipped windshield in the winter isn't hard. There’s grit and salt all over the roads which can easily get kicked up by bigger vehicles and thrown onto your windshield. However, as the weather drops to freezing temperatures, the glass in your windshield can expand and contract, causing even the smallest crack to become a huge problem in a matter of minutes. While it’s easy to dismiss a small scratch as “no big deal,” ignoring it can easily lead to a shattered windshield at the slightest touch.

Potholes: Your New Enemy

It’s only a small crack, right? Big deal. However, small chips and cracks in your windshield are a destabilizing factor in the structure of your auto glass. Whether you live in a small town or a big city, potholes on the road are a common fact of life. If you hit one of these at speed, it can easily cause your windshield to “give way” while you’re driving, leaving you with a massive repair or a lap-full of glass. Fixing a small chip or crack is easy and can take less than 30 minutes, ensuring you don’t wind up in a tragic situation down the road.

Yet Another Driver Distraction

Believe it or not, your eyes are drawn to objects on your windshield, particularly when driving long distances or sitting in traffic. This can mean stickers and even cracks can become a dangerous distraction, which can lead to a possible accident or minor fender bender. What’s worse is that minor bump can also crack the rest of your windshield, making putting off getting it repaired a truly terrible idea. Keep yourself safe by dealing with the problem before it becomes a bigger one.

If you’re like most drivers, you might occasionally put off those seemingly “non-essential” repairs due to possible cost or hassle. Getting your auto glass repaired before it becomes a huge problem is actually covered by many auto insurance policies, and can take less than 30 minutes in some circumstances. Check with both your insurance company and auto glass professional for further details. Remember: the longer you put it off, the worse it can become.

More about D&I Body Shop
1779 Marietta Blvd NW
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 885-9575
www.dandibodyshopandglass.com

5 Car Restoration Upgrades that Breathe Life Into Your Vehicle

Whether it’s that old beater that you just can’t seem to get rid of or a classic car that you still lovingly care for, an older vehicle requires a little extra TLC to keep it running smoothly and looking great. While some restoration projects are more expensive than others, they can extend your car’s looks and pep, thus keeping you in love with it a little longer. As buying a new car is usually more expensive than a few cosmetic and engine changes, restoring your car can actually help to keep more money in your pocket.

1) Paint Job

As cars age, their paintwork can fade, look rusty or even appear bleached by the sun. Alternatively, you may not have even liked the color to begin with, particularly if you bought the car used. A custom paint job can have your car glowing and looking like new in a matter of hours, and the cost is surprisingly affordable.

2) Seat Covers & Rugs

Few things see more wear and tear in your vehicle than the upholstery and rugs. Spills, stains, burns and just general wear can make you feel like you’re driving a garbage truck rather than a nice-looking car. There are many internet-based companies that can offer you replacement kits for your carpets and seat covers that are custom-fitted to specific makes and models.

3) Wheels & Tires

Anyone who’s ever watched one of the numerous car shows on television knows that the range of wheels and tires on the market is flashier and better than ever before. A new set of wheels can dramatically improve the look of your car, as well as make it look a lot more expensive. Getting a good set of tires can also increase your car’s drivability, giving you a smoother and oftentimes better ride.

4) Bolt-On Turbocharger

If you find yourself jealously watching other, newer vehicles overtake you on the highway, then improving your car’s engine is a must. While this is one of the more expensive restoration options, it can deliver in the speed and drivability stakes. A bolt-on turbocharger can add up to 90 horsepower or more to your sad, lacking car engine,. As this can be a major selling point for later on, be sure you keep the receipt as proof that the work was done. Turbochargers are also a good idea for those looking to get their classic cars restored.

5) Car Detailing

It’s a fact: a dirty car is an ugly car, and an ugly car is an embarrassing one. A professional detailing session can get your car shiny and smelling like new in no time at all, and usually for under $100, depending on what you want done. You can also easily do this yourself with just a quick visit to a car care store.

When you find yourself disliking your car’s looks and general performance, your first thought might be to go new. However, a great paint job and other cosmetic improvements can go a long way to getting you to fall in love with your car again. You don’t even have to bring it flowers afterwards.

More about D&I Body Shop
1779 Marietta Blvd NW
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 885-9575
www.dandibodyshopandglass.com

Collision Repair: How to Know You're Paying a Fair Price

Unless you’re already a mechanic, chances are you’re a bit clueless when it comes to getting your car repaired after a collision. While you may be primarily concerned with the aesthetics, such as the dings, bumps and scratches in your paint job, damage to your car after an accident can go much deeper than that. After a collision, you’ll need to enlist the aid of a professional. However, if you don’t have the knowledge, how can you be sure you’re getting a fair price? By asking the right questions and requesting documentation, you can keep rip-off merchants at bay and get quality repairs to your car.

Get multiple estimates.
When you’re investing money in any service, particularly one that’s expensive, it’s important to get more than one estimate. As you get various estimates on the costs of repair, it will give you an idea of what the ballpark price should be. Additionally, getting several estimates allows you to negotiate with your mechanic by pointing out that the garage down the road offers the same service for less.

Get a full breakdown of their prices.
Some unscrupulous mechanics may try to pull the wool over your eyes by simply giving you a price for what the repairs will cost. By doing this, it becomes easy to artificially inflate prices. Ask for a full breakdown of what item and repair costs what. A reputable mechanic should provide you with this from the start.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
It’s difficult to ask questions if you don’t feel confident in understanding the answers, but when it comes to collision repair, it’s essential. Ask what each price means and what’s included. For example, is it just the cost of the part, or does it also estimate labor? It’s perfectly okay to ask that they explain something in layman’s terms. If they’re a good mechanic, they should be comfortable with doing that.

Do your research.
The internet can be your best weapon in ensuring that you get the fairest price for the repair work you need. Check online sites such as Yelp or Angie’s List for customer reviews and ratings. Doing so can reveal potential pitfalls before you even drive into the garage.

Ask for references.
Any mechanic worth his motor oil will be able to give you some references of customers that use their services regularly, or point you towards where you can get that information. Like any business, they know that a happy customer is their best advertising. Many auto body shops keep a file of customer letters to show to potential clients.

When you've already been through the trauma of an automobile accident, there’s nothing worse than then having to deal with getting your car repaired. Use caution when finding the right auto body shop and mechanic for you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and be sure to do your research. By doing so, you’ll save a lot of headaches down the line.

More about D&I Body Shop
1779 Marietta Blvd NW
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 885-9575
www.dandibodyshopandglass.com

3 ways you can cheat yourself when choosing an auto body shop for collision repair

“Bury the deductible” Some car owners try to save money on the deduction portion of the collision repair by asking the repair shop to hide the deductible. Your insurance policy is a contract with you and your insurance carrier. In that policy it states that if you have a collision loss you are responsible for some of the repairs and that is why you are required to pay a deductible. By trying to hide your deductible, you are conspiring to insurance fraud and it is against the law. If you are found guilty you could go to jail and pay hefty fines. If an auto body shop agrees to hide the portion you pay for repairs, then don’t trust that auto body shop for your collision repair. They could also be doing a second rate job on fixing your vehicle correctly which also may require you to pay extra money.

 “Approved auto body shops” When you get into an accident, some insurance adjusters will give you a list of approved auto body shops that they recommend that you go to. It is illegal for an insurance company to require that you take your vehicle to a certain auto body shop. They can recommend, but if the insurance adjuster is requiring you to use a specific repair facility, it may be because that shop is cheaper than other shops. You shouldn’t choose an auto body shop because it is cheaper, because they may do a second rate job and that’s why they are cheaper. You should go to someone you trust who has high reviews and great customer service to handle your car. If your insurance adjuster will not let you choose an auto body shop that suits your needs, then report them to the state insurance commissioner.

“Demand OEM parts” When you go to the auto body shop to get your vehicle repaired, you can demand only new factory OEM parts but you should review your insurance policy to see if you signed off on the use of aftermarket parts. Some insurance companies call them “Quality Replacement Parts” but they are aftermarket parts which are copies of the real factory parts made in a different plant overseas. Sometimes these parts don’t fit as well as the original factory parts so make sure that in your insurance policy you are requesting new OEM parts because if they don’t fit, you will be charged to redo the repairs and have to pay for it out of pocket.

More about D&I Body Shop
1779 Marietta Blvd NW
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 885-9575
www.dandibodyshopandglass.com

Repairing your old car VS Replacing your old car

Repairing an old car can become very pricey. It can be expensive trying to keep up with the maintenance on an old vehicle. Sometimes simple oil changes can rack up hundreds of dollars because of the numerous other things that mechanics have found while changing your oil. After repeatedly paying these high repair bills, you start to think that you should just purchase a new car instead of pouring money into an older model car. But would you come out cheaper with a newer car, or will it be worth it to continue fixing your old car? Here are a few things you should ask yourself: 

Age and Mileage: What is the age and mileage of the older car? This is important because the age of the car and the mileage on the car would help determine how much and how often the car would need to be repaired.

Vehicle Maintenance: Have you kept the vehicle well-maintained? Have you kept up with oil changes, tune-ups, and replacing car parts as needed? This will also help determine your vehicle repairs.

Reliability of Make and Model: What is the make and model of the vehicle that you have? Some vehicles are more reliable than others and are able to reach 200,000 miles with no problem. A little research on the make and model of your vehicle and its reliability will help you determine whether you should purchase a car that will stand the test of time.

Repairs VS Market value: The repairs that are needed on your vehicle, do they exceed the market value for the car or does it make sense to get the repairs fixed on a vehicle that is worth the trouble.

Using these factors to determine whether you will repair your old car or buy a new one will help you get the most out of your money and your car.

More about D&I Body Shop
1779 Marietta Blvd NW
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 885-9575
www.dandibodyshopandglass.com

4 Signs Your Auto Repair Shop is Taking You for a Ride

It is not uncommon to get varying estimates from different auto repair shops. You might get a whole body repair for only $300, whereas another service provider offer you the same service package but for $2000.

But how do you spot which auto repair shop is worth your money and your trust? How do you know which car services provider is true to the tenets of customer service and is not after a quick buck at your expense?

There are many ways to tell whether an auto repair shop is taking you for a ride, but here are four sure signs to look for:

1. If an auto shop is a legitimate business and claims it has a team of certified car experts, then they will display all sorts of certifications and recognitions like ASE (National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence) or AAA (America Automobile Association) certifications.
   
   A state license and a business permit should be on the wall of the establishment. Somewhere visible where you could immediately spot them the moment you enter the building. If the shop you are dealing with doesn’t have such parchments displayed on their wall, you better take your car somewhere else.
   
2. When an auto repair shop states that they are particularly popular in the area yet not one of your friends and relatives have provided a word-of-mouth testimony about their services and business, you might be better off looking somewhere else. Recommendations from people you know are good indications of a business’s reliability and good service. If the shop you are talking to is not getting the love from your peers and loved ones, then perhaps they don’t deserve any from you.
   
3. Never ever sign a blank authorization form with your name on it. Auto repair shops that sweet talk you into signing such documents are usually throwing you through a loop. Run away as soon as they do this. Legitimate auto shops provide a list of estimates as well as warranties that apply to the job required.
   
4. When a mechanic says he does not need any modern tools and equipment to have a good look at your car, do not be fooled. Modern cars now require modern technicians and they need more than just a trusty old monkey wrench.

These four signs are just the tip of the iceberg. Let your instinct and common sense guide you to pick a good auto shop that is worthy of your trust and money. Filter out those that prey on people who don’t know anything about the auto repair business.

More about D&I Body Shop
1779 Marietta Blvd NW
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 885-9575
www.dandibodyshopandglass.com

How to Find a Custom Auto Body Paint Shop

Whether you are tired of your car’s look or you car has been in an accident and requires a  repainting job, you need a professional auto paint shop to give your car the look it needs.

There are numerous auto body paint shops in Atlanta, but how do you know which one to take your car to?

There are several things consumers should keep in mind when looking for the right body shop to restore or overhaul your car's paint job.

Seek Referrals & Read Reviews

Make sure you do your research ahead of time and ask for recommendations to people you trust who have firsthand experience with auto body painting shops. Also, be sure to check the company's reviews on local business listings like Google+, Yelp, and the like.

Now this does not mean you should take what other people tell you or what you read as gospel, but it should help you weigh your options. However, it will help you narrow your list down to a select few auto paint shops that you'd want to do business with.

Get Multiple Estimates

After you've narrowed down the list of shops you'd want to work with, start gathering up estimates from each of those body shops.

Just like any other major purchase you'd make, you should shop around and get multiple estimates for your custom paint job. Don't just settle for the first shop you find. A good estimate should entail the probable number of hours required to finish the job, how much your materials costs are for the automotive paint, and what the overall labor cost will be.

Make sure your estimate doesn't have any hidden fees that will surprise you at the end. And keep in mind, you shouldn't always go with the cheapest estimate. You get what you pay for!

Professionalism Matters

When you visit a shop that is messy, unorganized, and manned by people who do not know aren't helpful and friendly, that could be a reflection on the type of work you'll get from them.
Often times, the workplace is a reflection of the people who work there and the quality of work they do.

Make sure you're working with a body shop that has a professional, helpful, and friendly aura about them. Odds are, the quality of the paint job you'll get will be on par with your customer service experience!

More about D&I Body Shop
1779 Marietta Blvd NW
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 885-9575
www.dandibodyshopandglass.com

Different Types of Car Paints

Car paints began to surface in the late 1880s, shortly after the automobile was invented.

In those days, cars were still in its rudimentary stage, but advances in automotive technology paved the way for an evolution from earlier toxic automotive paints to safer and environmentally safe water-based car paints.

Nowadays, there are essentially four main types of car paints that are used in the automotive industry to paint our cars. Those types of car paints are: lacquers, enamels, urethanes and water-based.

At D&I, we utilize the highest-quality automotive paint for our painting services, auto body repair, and car restoration services. Each type of car paint that we've seen over the years has its own sets of pros and cons, which we'll go into below.

Lacquer car paint

Widely used during the mid-1920s to 1960s, lacquer automotive paints are relatively inexpensive and easy to use. Lacquer car paints provide an excellent, glossy finish to the car, however, they are notorious for breaking down in face of heat, ultraviolet rays, and other weather elements causing the lacquer-based car paint to chip and fade.

With this in mind, lacquer paints aren't recommended for long-term use on vehicles.

Enamel car paint

Enamel-based auto paints can be used as a long-term paint because of its superior durability versus lacquer paints. Once the enamel-based paint dries, it forms as a durable, hard outer shell that does not break easily and can withstand extreme hot and cold temperatures. The one downside to enamel paints, it their complex chemical structure that makes it more difficult to apply, and certain colors require a clear sealing coat as a finish. Because of this, most DIY car restoration types that want enamel auto paints have the car painted by a professional, rather than opt to do it on their own.

Urethane car paint

Urethane-based auto paints are kind of like a hybrid between enamel and lacquer. Urethanes apply easily like lacquer, but tout the durability of enamel. That said, they are more costly compared to their counterparts and preparation can be quite complicated.

In a urethane paint job, a thinner (or reducer) is needed as well as a drying agent to speed up the drying time. Once the materials are mixed, the paint must be used immediately and any unused paint should be discarded because of their high toxicity. Urethane-based automotive paints also require a clear coat.

Water-based car paint

The use of water-based auto paints has not yet become mainstream practice in the automotive painting industry. However, many small-scale auto shops recommend its use and industry analysts consider it the future of auto paints. Because of its relative “newness,” the color selection for water-based paints aren't as vast as its urethane and enamel counterparts, which has played a role in its delay as the go-to choice for auto paint and car restoration shops everywhere.

About D&I Body Shop
1779 Marietta Blvd NW
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 885-9575
www.dandibodyshopandglass.com