Stone chips are a typical problem in automotive paintwork, particularly on the bonnet. Stone chips cause very localised and extensive paint damage.
Gravel, small pebbles, and road debris thrown rearward from the tyres of vehicles ahead of you cause damage to the bonnet paintwork and are extremely prevalent on highways.
Even little stones may be turned into miniature missiles at high speeds, leaving significant damage to the paintwork. Paintwork damage is typical throughout the winter when salt spreaders pour sand on the roadways. Winter weather further hastens the deterioration of the chip by allowing ice and water to enter and corrode the metal beneath.
It is difficult to avoid stone chipping damage, but the good news is that it is repairable. The secret is to ensure that any damage is fixed as soon as possible and not let it degrade in the weather. Here are our top tips for repairing and protecting car paint:

When to Avoid Do-It-Yourself Repairs

When most individuals discover bodywork damage, the first instinct that comes to mind is to do the repairs yourself. This method can give pretty acceptable results for little, superficial damage, however, you should take your car to a specialist in the following situations:

• When you have a huge number of chips or numerous chips
• If rust streaks are apparent
• When the base metal is exposed

Rust is a serious issue in chip repairs because paint cannot attach to rusted metal.If the rust is not immediately removed, it can continue to grow through the metal beneath the paint, resulting in costly repairs or replacement panels later on.

How to Repair Stone Paint Chips

DIY stone damage repairs necessitate a steady hand, paint that matches the colour of your car, and time. Here are our detailed instructions to follow:

• Clean the damaged area with soap and water, then massage it down with white spirit or alcohol. This is a vital step for eliminating grease and providing a good surface for the paint to adhere to before allowing the area to cure correctly.
• Sand all of the raised edges of the paint chip. To achieve this, use a cutting compound like T-Cut or extremely fine grit dry and wet sandpaper. Avoid rubbing too hard to avoid damaging the surrounding clearcoat. To make the fix less obvious, eliminate sharp edges.
• Apply the primer or base coat. Allow to dry after using a paint pen or a very fine brush if your kit includes one.
• Apply the paint in thin coats. Your car’s paint was originally applied in layers, and you should do the same. Allow the paint to dry completely between layers. Ensure that the paint stays inside the damaged area and does not spread to adjacent regions.
• Apply the paint in thin coats. Your car’s paint was originally applied in layers, and you should do the same. Allow the paint to dry completely between layers. Ensure that the paint stays inside the damaged area and does not spread to the adjacent regions.
• After the paint dries, gently sand it to make it level with the surrounding paint. You will require a steady hand and very fine wet sandpaper. Wrap the sandpaper around a pencil’s blunt end, taking care not to scratch the surrounding paint of the small chip areas.
• Apply lacquer or clearcoat to seal the stone chip repair, then allow sufficient drying time.

How to Prevent Stone Chips on Your Vehicle

Stone chips on your car can be unsightly and can even cause damage to the paintwork. Here are some tips to help you avoid getting stone chips on your car:

Keep your distance

Try to keep a safe distance from other vehicles while driving, especially trucks and other larger vehicles that tend to kick up more debris.

Avoid gravel roads

Gravel roads are notorious for causing stone chips. If possible, try to avoid driving on gravel roads altogether.

Drive slowly

The faster you drive, the more likely you are to kick up debris that can cause stone chips. Try to keep your speed down, especially on rough or uneven roads.

Use mud flaps

Mud flaps can help prevent debris from flying up and hitting your car. They are particularly useful for cars with wider tires or vehicles that are lower to the ground.

Apply protective film

You can apply a clear protective film to your car’s paintwork. This film can help prevent stone chips as well as scratches and other damage.

Wash your car regularly

Regularly washing your car can help remove any debris that has accumulated on the paintwork, reducing the risk of stone chips.
By following these tips, you can reduce the risk of getting stone chips on your car and keep your paintwork looking great.

The Costs of Repairing Stone Chip Paint

The cost of the repair kits is determined by the type of kit you select. Prices range from as little as £10 to as much as £50. Don’t be tempted by the cheapest kits because they generally come in a restricted variety of paint hues, which may make the repairs visible.
Some suppliers even sell paint that matches your vehicle’s exact colour code. A complete repaint of the panel is far more expensive and can cost several hundred pounds.
A reputable professional car body repair specialist, on the other hand, should provide Small to Medium Area Repair Technology (SMART).
It is a more recent method of restoration that involves repainting the damaged area, making it faster and less expensive to do.
Professionals use colour-matching technology to create the perfect paint tone for your car. If your car has a superb paint finish, you should always consider hiring a professional rather than utilising a DIY kit.

Frequently Asked Questions regarding Stone Chips

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding fixing stone chips on a car:

Can stone chips be fixed?

Yes, stone chips can be fixed. However, the method used to fix them will depend on the severity of the chip and the type of paint on your car.

How much does it cost to fix stone chips?

The cost of fixing stone chips can vary depending on the size and severity of the chip, as well as the type of paint on your car. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $150 per chip.

Can I fix stone chips myself?

Yes, it is possible to fix stone chips yourself using a touch-up paint kit. However, if you are not experienced with car paintwork, it is recommended to leave the job to a professional to avoid making the damage worse.

How long does it take to fix stone chips?

The time it takes to fix stone chips will depend on the severity of the damage and the method used to fix it. In general, a professional can fix a single stone chip in 30 minutes to an hour.

Will fixing stone chips affect the value of my car?

Fixing stone chips can improve the appearance of your car, which may increase its resale value. However, if the repairs are not done correctly, they could potentially decrease the value of your car. It is important to have the repairs done by a professional to ensure the best results.

If you have any other questions about fixing Stone Chips please contact BodyTeq at any time.