Is Rubbing Compound Bad For Car Paint?
Rubbing compound, if misused or over, is harmful to the paintwork on vehicles. It’s an abrasive substance that is designed to eliminate imperfections and scratches. However, excessive rubbing could strip away the clear coat and cause damage to the paint. It is recommended to use it cautiously and cautiously, observing instructions from the manufacturer, to prevent any injury.
Understanding Rubbing Compound
When you think of car maintenance or detailing, the rubbing compound is often mentioned. Rubbing compound is an automobile product that removes scratches, oxidation, and other flaws from the car’s paintwork. It’s an abrasive product that can bring back the shine and smoothness of the car’s exterior. We’ll explore this jargon of compounds and their applications, methods, and safety measures to be aware of.
What is Rubbing Compound?
A rubbing compound also referred to as a cutting compound or paint compound, is a paste composed of abrasive bits suspended in a liquid or wax base. These abrasive bits can comprise various materials, including silicon carbide, aluminum oxide, and some even microfine sandpaper. The goal of rubbing compound is to strip away the thin layer of clear coat or paint, remove imperfections on the surface, and show an even, smoother surface underneath.
Uses of Rubbing Compound
Remove scratches: The compound used to remove scratches is used to remove scratch marks and scrapes of the car’s paint. It is a great way to eliminate small scratch marks caused by accidents of a minor nature, key scratches, or general wear and tear. The abrasive particles of the compound are responsible for leveling the paint’s surface, which makes the scratches less visible or disappear.
Removal of Oxidation: In time, the paint on a car may become dull and oxidized because of exposure to UV radiation, pollution, and other environmental elements. Rubbing compounds can restore paint’s shine by removing the layer of oxidation. Rubbing the compound onto your surface will remove the damaged layer and expose the vibrant, fresh color beneath.
Haze and Swirl Mark Removal: Haze and swirl mark patches may appear on a car’s paintwork because of improper drying, washing, or polishing techniques. Rubbing compounds can remove these imperfections by gently rubbing the paint’s surface. By rubbing the mixture with the polishing pad, streaks of haze and swirls will be slowly reduced, leading to a smooth, glossy cover.
Painting Restoration: The compound used to rub paint is an effective tool to restore dull or faded paint. Stipping off the damaged layer and then exposing the new paint underneath revitalizes its appearance of the car. This is especially beneficial for older vehicles and cars that have a deteriorated paintwork and require significant improvement in their aesthetics.
Preparation for polishing and waxing: Before applying a polish or a wax to your vehicle’s paint, it is crucial to have a smooth and clean surface. Rubbing compound is used as a pre-requisite procedure to remove any surface imperfections and guarantee optimal results after cleaning or polishing. It is an excellent base for using other products and increases their efficiency.
Choosing the Right Rubbing Compound
Abrasive level: Rubbing materials are available in various degrees of abrasiveness. They range from mild to highly aggressive. The degree of abrasiveness needed will depend on the scratches on your car’s paint. Soft compounds are suitable for minor swirl marks and removal of haze and haze removal, while more aggressive ones are required for more severe scratches and removal of oxidation. It is crucial to ensure that the compound’s abrasive levels align with the paint’s requirements on your vehicle.
Misuse of Rubbing Compound
Rubbing compound can be a helpful product that is commonly used in automotive maintenance to eliminate swirl marks, scratches, and oxidation from the exterior of a car. It is made up of abrasive particles, which aid in smoothing out any scratches in the paint. While rubbing compounds can be very effective when it is used in the right way, however, there are dangers associated with their use. We will examine the potential risks and why adhering to the correct rules when using rubbing compounds is essential.
Damage to Paint Surface
One of the main hazards of misusing rubbing compounds is the risk of causing damage to the paint’s surface. Rubbing compound comprises abrasive components which, if misused or in excess, could remove layer upon layer of paint. If excessive pressure is applied or utilized over prolonged periods, the material can erode the clear coat, exposing the layers underneath. This could cause permanent damage that leaves the surface open to further degrading and eventually requiring expensive repairs.
It is crucial to adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines and guidelines when applying the rubbing compound to reduce the danger. The procedures usually include details on the suggested method of application and the duration and pressure required to achieve the best results without causing damage to the paint’s surface.
Uneven or Irreversible Damage
Another possible risk of using the wrong rub compound is irreparable or uneven damage to the paint’s surface. Rubbing compound is intended to take away imperfections; however, in the wrong way, it could result in the removal of layers of color in an uneven manner. This can result in crooked or uneven areas where certain areas are overly removed while other sites remain unaffected.
In addition, frequent use of rubbing compound may eliminate imperfections or scratches and the clear coat. The surface is susceptible to peeling, fading, or more damage due to exposure to elements from the outside. This is why it is essential to be cautious and apply rubbing compounds in a controlled manner to prevent irreparable harm to paintwork.
Swirl Marks and Holograms
Incorrect use of rubbing compounds could also result in the appearance of swirls as well as Holograms appearing on the surface of paint. Swirl marks are small scratches that produce an elongated or spiderweb-like pattern. This is usually due to excessive pressure or using low-quality rub compound. Holograms, on the contrary, however, they are similar to swirl marks but more prominent and may result in distortions on the surface of the paint.
To prevent these dangers To avoid these risks, it is vital to select a high-quality rubbing material and adhere to the suggested methods to apply it. Utilizing a dual-action polisher or an orbital buffer may aid in reducing the chance of making swirl marks or Holograms. A proper technique, like working in smaller segments, using the appropriate pad, and using even pressure, will significantly decrease the possibility of creating undesirable marks.
Health and Safety Hazards
As well as the dangers related to the paint surface as well as risks to your health and safety that you need to be aware of while working using rubbing compounds. The rubbing compound is often contaminated with substances that are dangerous if inhaled, consumed, or come in contact with eyes or skin. These chemicals can contain petroleum distillates, solvents, or abrasive particles.
To reduce the risk, It is vital to use rubbing compounds in a ventilated area and wear appropriate personal protection equipment (PPE) like goggles, gloves, and a face mask. It is also essential to follow the safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer in order to limit exposure to hazardous substances.
Damage to Non-Painted Surfaces
Another possible risk associated with using the rubbing compound is damage to surfaces that are not painted. Rubbing compound is specifically designed to correct paint and is not recommended for use on non-painted surfaces such as rubber seals, plastic trim, or glass.
Factors to Consider Before Using Rubbing Compound
The appearance and style of your vehicle is crucial to maintain its value and appearance. With time, your vehicle’s paint can get dull, fade, or suffer minor scratches because of exposure to elements, scratches, or other causes. In these instances, rub compound is helpful in restoring the gloss and smoothness vehicle’s paint. But, before you head for the bottle of rubbing compounds, there are many factors you need to consider in order to ensure you get the desired results without causing damage to your vehicle. We will go over the most important aspects to take into consideration prior to applying rubbing compounds to your vehicle.
Assess the Condition of Your Car’s Paint:
Before applying rubbing compound, it’s important to check the state of the paint on your vehicle. Rubbing compound is generally utilized to correct mild to moderate paint imperfections, such as minor scratches, oxidation or smudge marks. But, if your vehicle’s paint has been damaged in a severe way like severe scratches or peeling of the clear coats, using rubbing substance might not be the right solution. In these cases, it is recommended to consult a professional or think about alternative methods for restoring your paint.
It is important to remember that using rubbing compounds on cars with paint that is fragile or thin could result in more damage. If your car is coated with a clear coat or you are unsure about the thickness of the paint, it’s recommended to do the test in an area that is not visible to ensure that the rubbing agent does not cause any harm.
Gather the Right Tools and Products:
Before beginning the process, you should gather all the required equipment and items needed to use rubbing compound on your vehicle. It includes a high-quality rub compound, foam or microfiber applicators, towels that are clean, and finalizing or polishing agent. Be sure to select products that are specifically designed for automobile use since they’re designed to be efficient and safe for use on paint surfaces. It is also essential to follow the instructions of the manufacturer concerning the use and application of the rub compound.
Choose the Correct Type of Rubbing Compound:
Rubbing compounds are available in a variety of kinds and formulations that are each designed for particular uses. Certain rubbing compounds tend to be more aggressive and made for use in heavy paint correction, while others are gentler and are suitable for moderate polishing. Be aware of the degree of scratches on your car’s paint, and select the rubbing material that best meets your needs. If you’re not sure which type to select, consult with a professional, or conduct some research to determine the best solution.
Prepare the Surface Properly:
Before applying the rubbing compound prior to applying rubbing compound, it is essential to prepare the surface of your vehicle correctly. Begin by cleaning your vehicle thoroughly to get rid of any dust, dirt, or other contaminants that could damage the paint while rubbing. Make use of a pH-neutral car shampoo as well as an easy sponge or a microfiber wash mitts to prevent any harm that could be caused.
After the car has been cleaned and dry, gently wipe it clean using a microfiber towel to avoid water spots. Check the paint surface for leftover contaminants, such as tree sap or tar, and clean them up using an appropriate remover. Then, cover any surfaces that are not painted and trim or other fragile areas to shield them from contact with the material that rubs.
Test in an Inconspicuous Area:
When applying rub compound over the entirety of your vehicle, it is recommended to do an experiment in a quiet area. Pick a small portion that you can apply just a little bit of rubbing compound following the directions provided. This will enable you to examine the effects and make sure that the rubbing substance does not cause any negative effects, for example, the discoloration of paint or even excessive elimination.
Assessing Long-Term Effects
Maintaining the appearance of the exteriors of a car is vital to preserving its worth and attractiveness. With time the paintwork of the vehicle may become dull, scratched, or ruined by imperfections. To deal with these issues, automobile owners frequently resort to ruby compounds as a solution. Rubbing compounds are that is designed to bring back the gloss and smoothness of paintwork by eliminating imperfections on the surface. While it may provide remarkable quick-term results, it’s crucial to evaluate the long-term consequences of rubbing compound use on paintwork to ensure that it doesn’t cause damage that is not intended or harm the integrity of paintwork on your vehicle.
Removing Scratches and Imperfections
One of the major advantages of the rubbing compound is its capability to get rid of swirl marks as well as other imperfections from the paint of your car. The compound is made up of abrasive particles which work to strip a thin layer of paint’s clear coating, making these blemishes disappear or lessen. When used properly and with care, the compound can improve the gloss and smoothness of the paint, thereby giving the car a fresh appearance.
It is important to keep in mind that overly aggressive or excessive use of rubbing compounds can result in unintended effects. Incorrect application or overuse could cause the loss of a large amount of clear coat, which can expose the paint to further harm, like peeling or fading. It is, therefore, essential to adhere to the directions of the manufacturer and use with caution when rubbing compound.
Restoring Faded Paint
Another benefit of rubbing compounds is its ability to repair the color that has faded. Exposure to harsh sunlight, weather conditions, as well as environmental causes can cause the car’s paint lose of shine and radiance. Rubbing compounds can aid in rejuvenating the dulled paint by stripping away the thin layer of oxidized paint and revealing the new bright layer that lies beneath.
It is important to take into consideration the long-term implications when using rubbing compounds to accomplish this. Infrequent or frequent usage of the compound may cause the thinning of the clear coat and the paint layers, which can make the exterior at risk of further fade. It is advised to reduce using rubbing compounds to revive faded paint and think about other options for polishing, like waxing, to ensure the integrity of the paint.
Potential for Paint Damage
While rubbing compounds can be efficient in removing imperfections and making appearances of paint on cars, however, it is crucial to recognize the risk of paint damage if used incorrectly. The abrasive particles contained in the rubbing compound may be too rough for certain kinds of paints or clear coats. Utilizing abrasive rubbing compounds on thin or delicate paint surfaces could cause irreparable damage, such as the formation of swirl marks and uneven textures.
To reduce the chance of damage to paint, It is essential to choose a rubbing agent that is compatible with the kind of paint and clear coat that is applied to the vehicle. Conducting tests on a patch of paint on a non-remarkable portion in the automobile is suggested to test how well the material to the painted surface. Furthermore, using an applicator pad that is soft, as well as applying gentle pressure throughout the rubbing process, will reduce the risk of damage to the paint.
Impact on Paint Longevity
The long-term consequences of using the rubbing compound to paint your car could also affect the longevity of the painting. As previously mentioned using excessive or aggressive amounts of rubbing compounds can deteriorate the clear coat and the paint layers, which makes the paint more prone to peeling, fading, and other types of wear and tear. This could lead to shorter life spans for the paint of your vehicle and may require frequent repainting or touch-ups.
FAQs
Does rubbing compound affect car paint?
Does rubbing compound remove paint?
Is rubbing compound safe for car?
Is Rubbing Compound Bad For Car Paint?
Rubbing compound, if misused or over, is harmful to the paintwork on vehicles. It’s an abrasive substance that is designed to eliminate imperfections and scratches. However, excessive rubbing could strip away the clear coat and cause damage to the paint. It is recommended to use it cautiously and cautiously, observing instructions from the manufacturer, to prevent any injury.
Understanding Rubbing Compound
When you think of car maintenance or detailing, the rubbing compound is often mentioned. Rubbing compound is an automobile product that removes scratches, oxidation, and other flaws from the car’s paintwork. It’s an abrasive product that can bring back the shine and smoothness of the car’s exterior. We’ll explore this jargon of compounds and their applications, methods, and safety measures to be aware of.
What is Rubbing Compound?
A rubbing compound also referred to as a cutting compound or paint compound, is a paste composed of abrasive bits suspended in a liquid or wax base. These abrasive bits can comprise various materials, including silicon carbide, aluminum oxide, and some even microfine sandpaper. The goal of rubbing compound is to strip away the thin layer of clear coat or paint, remove imperfections on the surface, and show an even, smoother surface underneath.
Uses of Rubbing Compound
Remove scratches: The compound used to remove scratches is used to remove scratch marks and scrapes of the car’s paint. It is a great way to eliminate small scratch marks caused by accidents of a minor nature, key scratches, or general wear and tear. The abrasive particles of the compound are responsible for leveling the paint’s surface, which makes the scratches less visible or disappear.
Removal of Oxidation: In time, the paint on a car may become dull and oxidized because of exposure to UV radiation, pollution, and other environmental elements. Rubbing compounds can restore paint’s shine by removing the layer of oxidation. Rubbing the compound onto your surface will remove the damaged layer and expose the vibrant, fresh color beneath.
Haze and Swirl Mark Removal: Haze and swirl mark patches may appear on a car’s paintwork because of improper drying, washing, or polishing techniques. Rubbing compounds can remove these imperfections by gently rubbing the paint’s surface. By rubbing the mixture with the polishing pad, streaks of haze and swirls will be slowly reduced, leading to a smooth, glossy cover.
Painting Restoration: The compound used to rub paint is an effective tool to restore dull or faded paint. Stipping off the damaged layer and then exposing the new paint underneath revitalizes its appearance of the car. This is especially beneficial for older vehicles and cars that have a deteriorated paintwork and require significant improvement in their aesthetics.
Preparation for polishing and waxing: Before applying a polish or a wax to your vehicle’s paint, it is crucial to have a smooth and clean surface. Rubbing compound is used as a pre-requisite procedure to remove any surface imperfections and guarantee optimal results after cleaning or polishing. It is an excellent base for using other products and increases their efficiency.
Choosing the Right Rubbing Compound
Abrasive level: Rubbing materials are available in various degrees of abrasiveness. They range from mild to highly aggressive. The degree of abrasiveness needed will depend on the scratches on your car’s paint. Soft compounds are suitable for minor swirl marks and removal of haze and haze removal, while more aggressive ones are required for more severe scratches and removal of oxidation. It is crucial to ensure that the compound’s abrasive levels align with the paint’s requirements on your vehicle.
Misuse of Rubbing Compound
Rubbing compound can be a helpful product that is commonly used in automotive maintenance to eliminate swirl marks, scratches, and oxidation from the exterior of a car. It is made up of abrasive particles, which aid in smoothing out any scratches in the paint. While rubbing compounds can be very effective when it is used in the right way, however, there are dangers associated with their use. We will examine the potential risks and why adhering to the correct rules when using rubbing compounds is essential.
Damage to Paint Surface
One of the main hazards of misusing rubbing compounds is the risk of causing damage to the paint’s surface. Rubbing compound comprises abrasive components which, if misused or in excess, could remove layer upon layer of paint. If excessive pressure is applied or utilized over prolonged periods, the material can erode the clear coat, exposing the layers underneath. This could cause permanent damage that leaves the surface open to further degrading and eventually requiring expensive repairs.
It is crucial to adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines and guidelines when applying the rubbing compound to reduce the danger. The procedures usually include details on the suggested method of application and the duration and pressure required to achieve the best results without causing damage to the paint’s surface.
Uneven or Irreversible Damage
Another possible risk of using the wrong rub compound is irreparable or uneven damage to the paint’s surface. Rubbing compound is intended to take away imperfections; however, in the wrong way, it could result in the removal of layers of color in an uneven manner. This can result in crooked or uneven areas where certain areas are overly removed while other sites remain unaffected.
In addition, frequent use of rubbing compound may eliminate imperfections or scratches and the clear coat. The surface is susceptible to peeling, fading, or more damage due to exposure to elements from the outside. This is why it is essential to be cautious and apply rubbing compounds in a controlled manner to prevent irreparable harm to paintwork.
Swirl Marks and Holograms
Incorrect use of rubbing compounds could also result in the appearance of swirls as well as Holograms appearing on the surface of paint. Swirl marks are small scratches that produce an elongated or spiderweb-like pattern. This is usually due to excessive pressure or using low-quality rub compound. Holograms, on the contrary, however, they are similar to swirl marks but more prominent and may result in distortions on the surface of the paint.
To prevent these dangers To avoid these risks, it is vital to select a high-quality rubbing material and adhere to the suggested methods to apply it. Utilizing a dual-action polisher or an orbital buffer may aid in reducing the chance of making swirl marks or Holograms. A proper technique, like working in smaller segments, using the appropriate pad, and using even pressure, will significantly decrease the possibility of creating undesirable marks.
Health and Safety Hazards
As well as the dangers related to the paint surface as well as risks to your health and safety that you need to be aware of while working using rubbing compounds. The rubbing compound is often contaminated with substances that are dangerous if inhaled, consumed, or come in contact with eyes or skin. These chemicals can contain petroleum distillates, solvents, or abrasive particles.
To reduce the risk, It is vital to use rubbing compounds in a ventilated area and wear appropriate personal protection equipment (PPE) like goggles, gloves, and a face mask. It is also essential to follow the safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer in order to limit exposure to hazardous substances.
Damage to Non-Painted Surfaces
Another possible risk associated with using the rubbing compound is damage to surfaces that are not painted. Rubbing compound is specifically designed to correct paint and is not recommended for use on non-painted surfaces such as rubber seals, plastic trim, or glass.
Factors to Consider Before Using Rubbing Compound
The appearance and style of your vehicle is crucial to maintain its value and appearance. With time, your vehicle’s paint can get dull, fade, or suffer minor scratches because of exposure to elements, scratches, or other causes. In these instances, rub compound is helpful in restoring the gloss and smoothness vehicle’s paint. But, before you head for the bottle of rubbing compounds, there are many factors you need to consider in order to ensure you get the desired results without causing damage to your vehicle. We will go over the most important aspects to take into consideration prior to applying rubbing compounds to your vehicle.
Assess the Condition of Your Car’s Paint:
Before applying rubbing compound, it’s important to check the state of the paint on your vehicle. Rubbing compound is generally utilized to correct mild to moderate paint imperfections, such as minor scratches, oxidation or smudge marks. But, if your vehicle’s paint has been damaged in a severe way like severe scratches or peeling of the clear coats, using rubbing substance might not be the right solution. In these cases, it is recommended to consult a professional or think about alternative methods for restoring your paint.
It is important to remember that using rubbing compounds on cars with paint that is fragile or thin could result in more damage. If your car is coated with a clear coat or you are unsure about the thickness of the paint, it’s recommended to do the test in an area that is not visible to ensure that the rubbing agent does not cause any harm.
Gather the Right Tools and Products:
Before beginning the process, you should gather all the required equipment and items needed to use rubbing compound on your vehicle. It includes a high-quality rub compound, foam or microfiber applicators, towels that are clean, and finalizing or polishing agent. Be sure to select products that are specifically designed for automobile use since they’re designed to be efficient and safe for use on paint surfaces. It is also essential to follow the instructions of the manufacturer concerning the use and application of the rub compound.
Choose the Correct Type of Rubbing Compound:
Rubbing compounds are available in a variety of kinds and formulations that are each designed for particular uses. Certain rubbing compounds tend to be more aggressive and made for use in heavy paint correction, while others are gentler and are suitable for moderate polishing. Be aware of the degree of scratches on your car’s paint, and select the rubbing material that best meets your needs. If you’re not sure which type to select, consult with a professional, or conduct some research to determine the best solution.
Prepare the Surface Properly:
Before applying the rubbing compound prior to applying rubbing compound, it is essential to prepare the surface of your vehicle correctly. Begin by cleaning your vehicle thoroughly to get rid of any dust, dirt, or other contaminants that could damage the paint while rubbing. Make use of a pH-neutral car shampoo as well as an easy sponge or a microfiber wash mitts to prevent any harm that could be caused.
After the car has been cleaned and dry, gently wipe it clean using a microfiber towel to avoid water spots. Check the paint surface for leftover contaminants, such as tree sap or tar, and clean them up using an appropriate remover. Then, cover any surfaces that are not painted and trim or other fragile areas to shield them from contact with the material that rubs.
Test in an Inconspicuous Area:
When applying rub compound over the entirety of your vehicle, it is recommended to do an experiment in a quiet area. Pick a small portion that you can apply just a little bit of rubbing compound following the directions provided. This will enable you to examine the effects and make sure that the rubbing substance does not cause any negative effects, for example, the discoloration of paint or even excessive elimination.
Assessing Long-Term Effects
Maintaining the appearance of the exteriors of a car is vital to preserving its worth and attractiveness. With time the paintwork of the vehicle may become dull, scratched, or ruined by imperfections. To deal with these issues, automobile owners frequently resort to ruby compounds as a solution. Rubbing compounds are that is designed to bring back the gloss and smoothness of paintwork by eliminating imperfections on the surface. While it may provide remarkable quick-term results, it’s crucial to evaluate the long-term consequences of rubbing compound use on paintwork to ensure that it doesn’t cause damage that is not intended or harm the integrity of paintwork on your vehicle.
Removing Scratches and Imperfections
One of the major advantages of the rubbing compound is its capability to get rid of swirl marks as well as other imperfections from the paint of your car. The compound is made up of abrasive particles which work to strip a thin layer of paint’s clear coating, making these blemishes disappear or lessen. When used properly and with care, the compound can improve the gloss and smoothness of the paint, thereby giving the car a fresh appearance.
It is important to keep in mind that overly aggressive or excessive use of rubbing compounds can result in unintended effects. Incorrect application or overuse could cause the loss of a large amount of clear coat, which can expose the paint to further harm, like peeling or fading. It is, therefore, essential to adhere to the directions of the manufacturer and use with caution when rubbing compound.
Restoring Faded Paint
Another benefit of rubbing compounds is its ability to repair the color that has faded. Exposure to harsh sunlight, weather conditions, as well as environmental causes can cause the car’s paint lose of shine and radiance. Rubbing compounds can aid in rejuvenating the dulled paint by stripping away the thin layer of oxidized paint and revealing the new bright layer that lies beneath.
It is important to take into consideration the long-term implications when using rubbing compounds to accomplish this. Infrequent or frequent usage of the compound may cause the thinning of the clear coat and the paint layers, which can make the exterior at risk of further fade. It is advised to reduce using rubbing compounds to revive faded paint and think about other options for polishing, like waxing, to ensure the integrity of the paint.
Potential for Paint Damage
While rubbing compounds can be efficient in removing imperfections and making appearances of paint on cars, however, it is crucial to recognize the risk of paint damage if used incorrectly. The abrasive particles contained in the rubbing compound may be too rough for certain kinds of paints or clear coats. Utilizing abrasive rubbing compounds on thin or delicate paint surfaces could cause irreparable damage, such as the formation of swirl marks and uneven textures.
To reduce the chance of damage to paint, It is essential to choose a rubbing agent that is compatible with the kind of paint and clear coat that is applied to the vehicle. Conducting tests on a patch of paint on a non-remarkable portion in the automobile is suggested to test how well the material to the painted surface. Furthermore, using an applicator pad that is soft, as well as applying gentle pressure throughout the rubbing process, will reduce the risk of damage to the paint.
Impact on Paint Longevity
The long-term consequences of using the rubbing compound to paint your car could also affect the longevity of the painting. As previously mentioned using excessive or aggressive amounts of rubbing compounds can deteriorate the clear coat and the paint layers, which makes the paint more prone to peeling, fading, and other types of wear and tear. This could lead to shorter life spans for the paint of your vehicle and may require frequent repainting or touch-ups.
