How long to wait before buffing out new paint?

[mcpo]

I painted the main wide stripe in my boat all the way around today, using acrylic enamal (metallic). It is already dry as can be...however; it is a dull look...Is this because I need to buff it out? If so, how long do I wait and does anybody have any suggestions on how to go about doing it?<br />Thanks<br />Cal

 

[dragracer]

Re: How long to wait before buffing out new paint?

I'm definately no expert, but I'd say you should be able to buff it within about 24 to 48 hours. I'd suggest using a light buffing compound like 3M Finnese-It and use real light pressure until you're sure it's gonna be ok. If it's too soft, you should be able to tell right away. If it starts to do strange things, give it another day. With Acrylic enamel you shouldn't have any problems. Some of the Urethane paints get so dern hard that's it's much easier to buff them if you do it as soon as you can. Good luck!<br /><br />P.S. If you REALLY want it to look smooth, wet sand it with some 2000 grit to take off the high spots and then buff it. A little more work but it really makes a paint job look professional.

 

[mcpo]

Re: How long to wait before buffing out new paint?

Thanks dragracer...think I'll go ahead and wet sand it like you said (lightly), then buff it out. Sounds like a plan. Appreciate the input.<br />Cal

 

[dragracer]

Re: How long to wait before buffing out new paint?

One other thing. If you wet sand it, you may have to start with a buffing compound that is a little more aggressive that the one I mentioned. "Finesse-it" is a very fine finishing product and I'm not sure it will take out all the minute scratches left by even 2000 grit paper. Start with a more coarse compound, then switch to the finer stuff to really make it shine. There are products even finer than "Finesse-it" you could finish up with if you want to get the best shine possible. Just depends on how much money and work you want to put into it. Good luck!

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: How long to wait before buffing out new paint?

Hopefully you painted on a very dry low humidity day.Moisture in the air or on the surface to be painted will make the paint get a cloudy look to it.I dont know if you can buff that out.Try buffing with polishing compound first and follow with wax in a small area to see if there is any improvement.Wet sanding will add several steps to the entire process.First make sure you can improve the finish before you spend days on it .You can always put another coat of paint on it if you cant get the finish up. Charlie