Underbody Coating

                                        UNDER-BODY COATING

     What is Underboady Coating?

          Under-body coating provides long term production from corrosion to car's underbody. It also protects parts like body panels, frame rails and other inner cavities that are not physically accessible prone to corrosion.

     Defintion of Under-body coating?

          Under-body coating means a coating labeled and formulated for application to wheel wells, the inside of door panels or fenders, the underside of trunk or hood or the underside of the motor vehicle.

         Under-body coating is usually a black, thick liquid that is sprayed on the underside or undercarriage of the car and is used to protect the metal from rust and corrosion.

     Purposes of Under-body coating:

•      Under-body coating can be sprayed on any type of car, truck or SUV.
•      The type one chooses to use is often determined by the level of damage your car.
•      The extent to which you would like to protect its underbelly.

     Types of Under-body Coating:

1.    Wax or Paraffin - based Under-body Coating
2.    Rubberized Under-body Coating
3.    Polyurethane Under-body Coating
4.    Asphalt - based Under-body Coating
5.    Water - based Under-body Coating
6.    Petroleum - based Under-body Coating

    1. Wax or Parrafin - based under-body coating

          It is the preferred undercarriage for cars often driven on highways and normal roads. Sometimes referred to as wax-based undercoating, it provides sufficient guard for cars in fairly moist regions.

     Advantages:

•    Readily flows into seams to  guarantee any exposed and prone surfaces are protected.
•    The most inexpensive undercoating option
•    Conveniently available in spray guy canisters or aerosol cans               

     Disadvantages:

•    Wears off quicker in comparison to other types
•    Unlike the rubberized type, it does not really dry
•    Needs to be stripped and reapplied at least once a year as soon as signs of wear and tear to show

    2. Rubberized Under-body Coating

         Ideals for cars driven in rough terrain, as its name suggests, this undercarriage coating involves applying a rubber agent to the underbelly to protect and cushion at against dents, dust and moisture.

        It can also be applied around wheel wells and quarter panels. Considered the best option for standard vehicles.

      Advantages:

•    Easy to apply
•    Quickly applied with no fuss
•    Undercoat can be painted for a neat finish
•    Provides satisfactory protection
•    The simplest way to undercoat your car
•    Safe to apply
•    Truely dries to a soft rubbery finish that prevents further rust, damege, or moisture seepage.

   3. Polyurethane Under-body Coating

          Uses of polyurethane-based sealant that comes in canisters ready to be loaded into a sprayy gun and sprayed to guard the undercarriage of your vehicle.

          The polyurethane used is a high quality and durable material that is perfect for any weather condition. It is ideal for standard vehicles.

      Advantages:

•    It has a long lifespan and its resistant to wear and tear
•    Easily and quickly applicable
•    Trickles into cracks and rusty spots already presents on the underbelly of your car and fills them, hence protection the underlying metal
•    Quickly and simple to remove, as it sands easily
•    Can be painted over

      Disadvantages:

•    For better adherence, needs undercarriage preparation before application
•    Requires time-consuming etching with primer to bare metals

   4. Asphalt - based Under-body Coating 

         Unlike the rubberized, wax-parrafin based and polyurethane undercoatings, this type is made of asphalt and generally also contains some rubberized material that sets up firmly and helps soften noise from the engine.

         It reportedly has the most damage resistant properties. Although asphalt-based undercoating is ideal for trucks, military and all-terrain vehicles, it will also helps protect your car, truck, motorcycle and heavy machinery from the elements.

        It last long and best for endurance vehicles that have to undergo heavy road use.

        When it comes to large trucks, heavy machinery, military and all-terrain vehicles, asphalt-based undercoating provides added durabilty aginst rocks, chips and moisture. It's usually available from professional services shops.

     Advantages:

•    Formulated to protect from dirt, rust and corrosion, it normally has a shelf life if up to two years. Sold in five-gallon containers.
•    Provides extra durablility as it is the strongest and thickest undercoating available.

     Disadvantages:

•    It takes time to harden and so requires more cure time than the other three types.
•    Unlike the other three, it is also, not paintable as such, not very aesthetically suitable for standard vehicles.
•    For best used only for the undercarriages of utility vehicles and trucks.
•    The only type of undercoating with a limited warranty.

   5. Water-based Undercoating

           Water-based undercoating is a protective layer helps your car stay protected from harsh weather conditions. It is made from an advanced polymer that is non-toxic and environmentallly friendly.

          The product can be applied to any surface, including metal, plastic, rubber and glass. It will keep your car protected from rust, salt and moisture. This undercoating provides a protective barrier that lasts for only a year depending on where you drive your car.

          When it comes to DIY(Do It Yourself) undercoating, this type is most popular. Coming in an aerosol can, it can be purchased from most automotive shops. This product is easy to apply and can be done in a single day.

     Advantages:

•    Thin-set, it takes a short time to dry.
•    Can be done at home.

     Disadvantages:

•    It requires frequent repetition as it's not very durable.
•    It cannot repel ice and water like petroleum-based undercoating.

   6. Petroleum-based Undercoating

          Petroleum-based undercoating is a heavy, viscous oil-based liquid protect that provides an effective barrier against moisture and corrosion.

          The liquid dries and hardens to provide tough, durable and long-lasting protection against moisture and corrosion. This product is typically applied to the undercarriage of automobiles, trucks and other vehicles.

          Petroleum-based undercoating can be purchased from your professional vehicle servicing shops.

     Advantages:

•    Has greater deflective abilities for road salts and grime
•    Repels ice and water because of its petroleum base

     Disadvantages:

•    Requires annual replacement