Guidelines on Car Rust Removal
Oxidation of metal creates a weakened element, so car rust removal is imperative for a vehicle to maintain its quality. Preventing rust is the best option for longevity of a car, but when it does appear quick action can stop it in its tracks and inhibit further deterioration.
Rust occurs as a chemical reaction when oxygen, moisture and iron all combine in specific degrees. Scientifically speaking, it is a reaction that occurs when an anode, an electrolyte and a cathode meet in one area. It can happen even more quickly if salt is added to the mix. This is the reason that winter seasons have such an extreme detrimental effect on vehicles. When water (the electrolyte) touches steel (the anode), it combines with the carbon dioxide in the air; transforming it into an acid that begins to dissolve the steel. The oxygen particles merge with the dissolved metal to form iron oxide; more commonly known as rust.
Normally, the paint application on vehicles protects the underlying metal from the elements that result in iron oxide. However, when the car’s surface becomes damaged through scratches or dents, it leaves an opening for the deterioration to begin. The rust appears on the surface of the vehicle as a reddish brown powdery and flaky material. If not halted early, the oxidation will spread and deteriorate even more of the vehicle. Car rust removal will keep the vehicle in stable condition, helping it to hold its value on the market and to the owner.
For the inexperienced and unknowledgeable, treating rust on a car should be left to professionals. The process can be involved, depending upon the extent of the deterioration that has occurred. There is also the matter of repainting over the repaired area; the appearance of the car can be severely affected if an exact match of the paint is not made. The cost for having a company perform the service will vary, again hinging upon the amount of work needed to be done, but generally ranges between $200 and $400.
Completing the rust removal on your own can be a less expensive venture if you know how to complete the process. The rusted area will need to be prepped for repair, beginning with sanding. Using a handheld grinder and 120 to 150 grit sandpaper, level and smooth the area as the majority of rust is brushed away and clean metal can be seen. When scratches or dents are present, it may be necessary to use a product such as Bondo that will fill these creases and create a level surface. Once this has been achieved, it will be time to get to work sanding by hand. It is important that the area be as smooth as any undamaged areas on the vehicle before proceeding to the next step.
When the rust has been completed eradicated from the steel, it will be time to prepare the area for repainting. This step begins with the application of a primer. After the primer has fully dried, the area will need to be sanded again to make the surface smooth. The paint can now begin to be applied. Three thin coats are typical, but more can be applied if necessary to match the surrounding areas as closely as possible. Sealing the area as completely as possible will ensure that further repairs in this same area will not be required in the future.
Whether a car has been damaged by scratching, denting or simply age, it is possible to keep it looking its best through proper car rust removal when oxidation appears. Not only will this care make sure the vehicle looks great for the current owner, but it will help the car retain its value and have a better resale value on the market.