The Future of Automotive Paint
Expert Mark Clark asks paint manufacturers what the future of automotive refinishes will look like…and offers his own predictions as well.
Buyer Education: Sandpaper
Understanding the differences between different kinds of sandpaper and how they’re made will equip you with the knowledge to make smarter buying decisions.
Getting Paid for Paint and Materials
Reader’s Choice question: “Why is paint and materials tied to paint labor rate? It should be invoiced and marked up accordingly. How do we change this? We went from a 35 percent profit on paint and materials to 2 percent in the last two years.” – Jim Patrick, collision repair manager, Langs Chevrolet, Beavercreek, Ohio
Waterborne Paint FAQs
We asked the paint manufacturers six questions about low-VOC/waterborne paint with the goal of dispelling the myths and fears about this new technology. Their answers may surprise you.
Auto Body Frame Machine Purchasing Tips
Frame machines come in all shapes, sizes and capabilities. The more you know about them, the better buying decisions you can make.
How to Retrofit a Spraybooth for Waterborne
“Makeover” shows are all the rage on TV today, but none concentrate on making over spraybooths for waterborne/low-VOC basecoats. So what do you need to do to restyle your booth? Listen up and your booth could become the height of fashion…and efficiency.
Your Guide to Body Shop Safety
Creating a culture of safety in your body shop can increase productivity, make your employees happier and keep you out of trouble. So what are you waiting for?
Strainer Sizes for Waterborne Paint
Reader’s Choice Question: “What strainer sizes are required with each brand’s waterborne paint? Some paint companies say 125 microns, some call for 200, some for a range of sizes. When considering a disposable paint cup system, which is supposedly better for waterborne paint?”
– Biag Pellegrino, head painter, Chaffee’s Auto Body, Franklin, Mass.
Why You Should Replace Hand Sanding with Power Sanding
Power sanders are much faster than hand sanding, and fast is the name of the game in collision repair. So stop hand sanding and learn to love the “bomb.”
TECH FEATURE: The Case of the Murdered Paint Job
A horrible paint job. A miffed vehicle owner. An upset insurance company. We were out to crack the case. And everyone and everything were suspects.
Preparing a Body Shop for Waterborne Paint Conversion
Waterborne is better for the environment and has some unique and beneficial advantages. But it isn’t a switch that should be made on a whim.
Part 3 of a three-part series.
Equipment Needed for Waterborne Conversion
Transitioning to waterborne basecoats will require obtaining new equipment and retrofitting some existing equipment. Are you prepared? Part 2 of a three-part series on waterborne paint.
