The Types of Red Paint for Automobiles

by Philippa Jones
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red car image by Tammy Mobley from Fotolia.com

Painting your automobile red will give it a new lease of life. It is a bright color that will not clearly show dirt or scratches, unlike white or silver. There are different types of red paint available. The three main types are metallic (or non-metallic), acrylic lacquer or acrylic enamel.

Acrylic Enamel

Acrylic enamel paint is a highly durable and glossy automobile paint. Only one coat of this type of paint is needed to cover a car, either by spraying or by using a brush. It is designed to resist extensive wear and the daily abrasion that an automobile is exposed to. Candy Apple Red and Raspberry Red Pearl are typical bright shades that are available from manufacturers such as Starfire or Firethorn.

Acrylic Lacquer

Acrylic lacquer is similar to acrylic enamel because it is a synthetic plastic paint. However, it is made from a plastic resin which is dissolved into a solvent. This makes the substance more like a varnish. It is applied using a spray, and is a highly durable. However, many manufacturers have discontinued production of acrylic lacquer paint in favor of acrylic enamel. Starfire continues to produce Candy Apple Red, while Firethorn offers a shade of red called Red Pearl.

Metallic and Non-Metallic Paint

Metallic and non-metallic red paints are available for use with automobiles. The metallic finish is a high glossy sheen that shimmers when it catches the light. It also refracts light and reflects heat off the surface so the interior remains cool, unlike non-metallic paints which absorb more heat. Another disadvantage with non-metallic paint is that it does not blend as smoothly with the contours of the car as metallic paint. Red automobile paint is available in different shades, or you can even customize your own color at specialist auto retailers.

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