What Is A Basecoat?

At Paint for Cars, our team aims to help auto enthusiasts get the best look for their car— and make it last. Painting your car is a choice between two processes: car prep, priming, basecoat, and clear coat; or, car prep, priming, and a single-stage paint kit. Each stage must be addressed meticulously for the best finishing look and longevity. Today, let’s take a look at basecoats.

The basecoat is the ‘basic’ paint— the color and aesthetic of your car. From pearl to candy to metallic, you can find a wide range of color types and hues. If you pick a single-stage kit, it’s also the glossy and protective finish. For newer painters, the two-stage paint kits leave more room for error and correction as well as chances to take a break from the project and review your current coat.

The application of a basecoat requires skill and precision. It needs to be evenly applied to avoid streaks or uneven color patches. Not only can this affect the final look of your car, but thin patches can also let in moisture and other damage and affect clear-coat adhesion.

Choosing the right basecoat can be a game-changer for your DIY or professional automotive painting project. It affects everything from color matching to the final sheen of your vehicle. Our product range at Paint for Cars includes a variety of options, from vibrant and bold colors to subtle and elegant hues, all formulated to provide excellent coverage, fast drying times, and ease of application.