Underbody Coating

Underbody Coating:

Underbody coating is usually a dense cladding (often based on rubber) applied uniformly to the undercarriage of the automobile. It is normally sprayed or painted on when the car is just out of the dealership and is clean. But even if you are getting the undercoating applied after a couple of years, it’s fine too. This is because it can prevent further damage to the undercarriage.

The main purpose of undercoating is to check rust especially in the body components like frame rails along with other exposed metal parts. Underbody coating can also reduce wear and tear.

Types of underbody coating :

1. Rubberized underbody coating.
2. Wax based underbody coating.
3. Asphalt based underbody coating.
4. Polyurethane Underbody coating.

1. Rubberized underbody coating.: This is generally thought of as the best underbody coating for a car. It preserves the underbody well, protecting it from scratches. Applying this to the undercarriage is not much of a hassle either.
2. Wax based underbody coating.: This – more or less – ephemeral undercoating will wear away in a few months’ time. On the upside, wax-based undercoating puts up a big fight against moisture. It is also the most affordable option out there.
3. Asphalt based underbody coating.: Best suited for lorries, trucks and large vehicles this provides a greater degree of protection compared to rubber-based coatings. However, asphalt-based coatings contain little amounts of rubber for sound-insulation purposes. The process of applying this coating is a bit time-consuming though.
4. Polyurethane Underbody coating. This coating closes up splits and fractures on the underbody of the vehicle. It offers up good protection against corrosion and also bonds with the metal. Unlike in the case of asphalt-based coating, you can paint over the polyurethane coating.

Pros of underbody coating :

• FIGHTS RUST - Underbody coating plays a important role in ( fighting rust ) keeping corrosion at bay
• ABSORBS NOISE - Very thick undercoating can soften the noises that reach the cabin. Since the undercoating is often made up of rubber it absorbs some of the rackets.
• PROLONGS CARS LIFE - Good undercoating not only defends the underbody from corrosion but also protects the engine and transmission as well! Less rusting coupled with slower wear and tear can surely add years to the lifespan of your vehicle.
• REINFORCEMENT - If your car comes with stock underbody coating, using another coating on top of it,will offer additional reinforcement, protecting the underbody from water, road debris, gravel and small pebbles.

Cons of Underbody coating :

• it is not effective on cars with corrosion,however applying undercoat over rust means that although you’re stopping more moisture and airflow to the rusted area, the rusting process will still keep happening.
• Doesn't work so well on old cars, If you don’t remove the debris first, the already-present debris will be sealed in.
• Your vecicles Warranty may be voided, if you opt for thrid party undercoating treatment.
• Undercoating can be damaged.Reapply it every 3 to 5 years. This is the only way to ensure your vehicle is protected properly. it can be expensive.