Top 10 Tech Tips for Automotive Refinish Trade in Australian Winter from Autolac
- Control Your Workshop Climate
Winter in Australia brings cooler temperatures and higher humidity, which can negatively impact paint curing and adhesion. To ensure optimal results, maintain a workshop temperature between 20–25°C using heaters or air conditioning. If humidity levels exceed 60%, use a dehumidifier to prevent moisture-related issues such as blistering, slow drying, or poor finish quality. A controlled environment not only improves paint application consistency but also reduces the need for rework. Proper climate management is essential for achieving a professional, long-lasting finish, especially during colder months when external conditions are less predictable. Investing in climate control tools will save time and materials while ensuring high-quality outcomes.
- Adjust Paint Mixing & Application for Cold Weather
Cold weather thickens paint, affecting its viscosity and sprayability. To counteract this, follow manufacturer recommendations for winter-grade reducers and hardeners. Before mixing, warm paint cans in a heated cabinet (never exceeding 30°C) to improve flow. Adjust your spray gun pressure slightly to accommodate the thicker consistency, ensuring even coverage and a smooth finish. Cold paint can lead to uneven application, orange peel, or dry spray, so proper preparation is key. By making these adjustments, you’ll maintain optimal spray performance and avoid common winter-related paint defects, resulting in a flawless coat every time.
- Extend Flash-Off & Drying Times
Lower temperatures slow solvent evaporation, requiring longer flash-off and drying times between coats. Increase wait times by 50–100% to prevent solvent trapping, which can cause wrinkling, poor adhesion, or bubbling. Infrared drying lamps can help accelerate the process without compromising quality. Rushing jobs in cold weather often leads to defects, so patience is crucial. Proper drying ensures a durable finish and reduces the risk of rework. Always monitor environmental conditions and adjust drying schedules accordingly to maintain efficiency while upholding high standards.
- Prevent Moisture Contamination
Winter humidity introduces moisture into paint, leading to fisheyes, cloudiness, or adhesion issues. Store paints and thinners in sealed containers to minimise exposure. Use moisture traps on air compressors and drain air lines regularly to eliminate water buildup. In high humidity, opt for slower-evaporating reducers to reduce moisture absorption during spraying. Taking these precautions ensures a clean, professional finish by preventing contamination that could otherwise ruin a paint job. Proper moisture control is essential for maintaining paint integrity in damp conditions.
- Optimise Primer & Filler Application
Cold weather slows the curing of primers and fillers, requiring extra time before sanding to avoid clogging sandpaper. Fast-cure hardeners can help but should be used sparingly to prevent brittleness. Pre-warming panels with a heat gun (below 50°C) improves adhesion and reduces curing time. Rushing the process can lead to poor surface preparation, affecting the final finish. By allowing adequate curing time and using controlled heat, you’ll achieve a smooth, stable base for paint application, ensuring long-lasting results.
- Handle Metallic & Pearl Paints Carefully
Cold temperatures can cause metallic flakes to settle unevenly, resulting in mottling or streaking. Shake paint thoroughly before use and maintain a consistent spray distance (15–20 cm). Apply lighter coats with extended flash times to allow proper metallic distribution. If needed, slightly increase reducer volume (within manufacturer limits) to enhance flow. Proper technique prevents patchiness and ensures a uniform, high-quality metallic or pearl finish. Taking extra care with these paints in cold weather avoids costly refinishing work.
- Protect Fresh Paint from Morning Dew & Rain
Overnight temperature drops cause condensation, which can damage fresh paint. Whenever possible, avoid leaving freshly painted vehicles outside. If unavoidable, use breathable fabric covers (not plastic) to minimise moisture exposure. Schedule painting earlier in the day to maximise drying time before temperatures fall. Moisture settling on uncured paint can cause spotting, blistering, or adhesion failure, so proactive protection is essential for preserving finish quality in winter conditions.
- Check & Maintain Spray Gun Performance
Cold, thickened paint increases the risk of spray gun clogs. Clean guns thoroughly after each use, paying attention to fluid tips and air caps. Use winter-grade thinners for flushing to prevent residue buildup. Inspect seals and gaskets, as cold weather can make them brittle, leading to leaks or inconsistent spray patterns. Proper gun maintenance ensures smooth operation, consistent application, and avoids costly interruptions during critical painting stages.
- Store Materials Correctly
Paints, clears, and hardeners can degrade if exposed to extreme cold. Store them in a temperature-controlled space (15–25°C) to maintain chemical integrity. Avoid freezing, which can ruin product consistency. Always shake or stir materials thoroughly before use to ensure proper mixing. Proper storage extends shelf life and guarantees optimal performance, preventing application issues caused by separated or compromised products.
- Plan Jobs Around Weather Delays
Winter conditions often extend repair timelines due to slower drying and curing. Communicate potential delays to customers upfront to manage expectations. Schedule complex paint jobs (like multi-layer pearls) during milder weather when possible. Rushing leads to defects—prioritising quality over speed ensures customer satisfaction and reduces rework. Proper planning keeps workflows efficient while maintaining high standards, even in challenging winter conditions.