Underbody Coating

                                                          UNDERBODY COATING

      In Indian road conditions, a cars underbody is most prone to corrosion. Underbody coating provides long term protection from corrosion to car’s underbody. It also protects parts like internal body panels, frame rails and other inner cavities that are not physically accessible but are prone to corrosion.

      Undercoating 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.

      It is most commonly applied to vehicles that are used in wet or salty environments since it absorbs most of the moisture, grime, salt, and other chemicals which your motor vehicle comes into contact with on the road.

     There are several types of undercoating and their specific brand examples currently available on the market.

1. Wax or Paraffin-based Undercoating:

      It is the preferred undercarriage coating 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:

1. Readily flows into seams to guarantee any exposed and prone surfaces are protected.
2. The most inexpensive undercoating option.

Disadvantages:   

1. Wears off quicker in comparison to other types.

    2. Unlike the rubberized type, it does not really dry.

2. Rubberized Undercoating:

     Ideal 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 it against dents, dust, and moisture.

 Advantages:

1. Easy to apply.
2. Quickly applied with no fuss.
3. Undercoat can be painted for a neat finish.
4. Provides satisfactory protection.

3.Polyurethane Undercoating:

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

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

Advantages:

1. It has a long lifespan and is resistant to wear and tear.
2. Easily and quickly applicable.
3. Trickles into cracks and rusty spots already present on the underbelly ofyour car and fills them, hence protecting the underlying metal.
4. Quick and simple to remove, as it sands easily.

Disadvantages:

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

4.Asphalt-Based Undercoating:

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

Advantages:

    1. Formulated to protect from dirt, rust, and corrosion, it normally has a shelf life of up to two years. Sold in five-gallon              containers.

2. Provides extra durability as it is the strongest and thickest undercoating available.

Disadvantages:

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

5.Water-based Undercoating:

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

Advantages: 

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

Disadvantages:

    1. It requires frequent repetition as it’s not very durable.

    2. It cannot repel ice and water like petroleum-based undercoating .

6.Petroleum-Based Undercoating:   

      Petroleum-based undercoating is a heavy, viscous oil-based liquid product 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.

Advantages:

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

Disadvantages:

1. Requires annual replacement.