You’ve just finished a fresh paint job—whether on a vehicle, piece of machinery, or industrial equipment—and it looks flawless. But how you treat it in the first few days, weeks, and months will make all the difference in how long that finish lasts.
At FT Paints, we not only supply high-quality automotive paints and industrial coatings, we also help our customers protect their investment. Below are the essential dos and don’ts for caring for a new paint job.
✅ DO: Allow the Paint to Cure Properly
Why it matters: Paint may feel dry to the touch within hours, but full curing can take 7 to 30 days, depending on the type of paint and environmental conditions.
- Do wait before applying wax or sealant—especially on automotive refinishing jobs.
- Do store the vehicle or equipment in a well-ventilated, covered space while curing.
❌ DON’T: Wash Too Soon
A common mistake is washing too early, which can ruin the finish.
- Don’t wash a freshly painted surface for at least 2 weeks.
- Avoid automatic car washes with brushes—these can scratch soft paint.
- When you do wash, use pH-balanced car wash soap, soft microfiber cloths, and no pressure washers.
✅ DO: Protect the Surface from the Elements
UV rays, rain, dust, and pollution can all damage uncured or unprotected paint.
- Do use a car cover or store vehicles indoors when possible.
- For industrial machinery, use tarps or canopy storage until the surface is fully hardened.
❌ DON’T: Use Harsh Chemicals or Abrasive Materials
Even after the paint has cured, aggressive cleaning products or tools can strip the clear coat or scratch the finish.
- Avoid using solvents, degreasers, or rough brushes.
- Don’t buff, polish, or compound the paint until at least 30 days after application.
✅ DO: Apply Protective Coatings After 30 Days
After the curing period, you can take extra steps to protect your paint job.
- Apply a quality wax or ceramic coating for UV protection and enhanced shine.
- For industrial coatings, consider a topcoat or sealant for added chemical resistance.
FT Paints can recommend compatible protection products for any automotive or industrial application.
❌ DON’T: Ignore Minor Damage or Contaminants
Bird droppings, tree sap, and industrial fallout are acidic and can etch into your new paint quickly.
- Clean contaminants off immediately with gentle cleaners.
- Don’t delay touch-ups—small chips can lead to rust or corrosion.
We offer colour-matched touch-up paints for fast, seamless repairs.
Trust FT Paints for Paint Protection Advice and Products
Whether you're finishing a car respray or coating industrial equipment, FT Paints has you covered. As a leading automotive paint supplier and industrial coatings expert, we stock everything you need to protect your work and extend its life.
✅ Looking After a New Paint Job – Key Tips Recap:
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Allow paint to fully cure | Wash too soon |
| Store under cover | Use harsh chemicals |
| Wash gently after 2+ weeks | Use automatic car washes |
| Apply wax after 30 days | Delay cleaning bird droppings or sap |
| Use FT Paints-approved products | Rush into polishing or buffing |
Need Expert Help or Protective Products?
Contact FT Paints Today
Get the right tools, coatings, and advice to protect your paintwork for years to come. Whether you're a professional or a DIYer, FT Paints is your one-stop shop for automotive and industrial paint solutions.