What is anti-gravel
All motorists know that the outer sides of the threshold, the bottom of the doors and the walls of the car, especially under the bumper, are subject to mechanical damage.
Most often, the car is coated with a protective substance only on the bottom or in the wheel arches. The rest of the car is only painted, which is a gross mistake. Anti-gravel should be applied wherever the car receives impacts from sand, gravel or stones. The product can be applied in two ways:
- By spraying an aerosol or using a gun;
- Applying the substance with a brush or roller.
The substance applied to the surface of the car forms a matte film after drying. Aerosol substances perfectly retain their structure despite temperature changes. Thus, the service life of the car is significantly extended. This film will protect the car from both mechanical damage and corrosion. Some products are recommended to be applied in several layers. But at the same time you need to wait so that the previous layer has time to dry completely.
The anti-gravel substance performs several functions:
- Strengthens vibration and noise insulation;
- Eliminates cracks and scratches, thereby enhancing the tightness of the surface;
- Protects the car from corrosion, exposure to salt and acids, moisture, dirt and stone impacts.
The substance is divided into several types:
- With different textures - smooth and textured;
- Allows for the coloring procedure;
- For use on certain parts only.
In addition, anti-gravel is available in three types:
- In the form of a spray in cylinders. This substance forms a very thin film. Because of this, it must be applied to the surface in several layers.
- A product manufactured in such a way that it can be applied using a gun. The disadvantage of such a substance is that it sometimes needs to be diluted with a solvent. In addition, working with such anti-gravel requires professionalism.
- Anti-gravel in jars. It is applied to the surface with a brush or roller. However, it is just as popular as the other two types.
Application area
Anti-gravel has several purposes:
- Improved noise and vibration insulation.
- Hiding existing cracks without increasing them over time.
- Protection of all body elements from the harmful effects of salts and acids. The product reliably protects against moisture, dirt, stone impacts and protects against metal corrosion.
To treat a car, you can use one of three anti-gravel options, the only difference is in the application methods:
- Spray in a bottle, easy to apply and distribute to the necessary parts.
- Spray under the gun. Not a very convenient method of application; you have to use an additional solvent for dilution. Most often used at professional service stations.
- In banks. The paint is applied with a brush or a spray gun. This product has the most positive reviews, but due to the complexity of application it is less popular than other methods.
Types, composition and features of paint
There are several types of anti-gravel paint that can be used to protect the coating of your car. Each of them has its own characteristics, composition and features.
Based on their composition, there are three types of substances.
- The basis is various types of resins and rubber.
This composition is used for processing the body, but is not suitable for the bottom.
It has high anti-corrosion characteristics, protects the vehicle from water, absorbs unnecessary sounds, and is mechanically stable.
After applying this substance, it requires covering with varnish or paint.
- The base is a mixture of resins and wax.
Prevents rust and metal corrosion. With the help of the composition you can treat even invisible areas. It does not lose its effect due to sudden temperature changes, but does not have high mechanical protection.
- Special compounds used only for treating the bottom.
They are based on various resins, rubber, wax, bitumen. They prevent the development of corrosion, absorb unnecessary sounds well, and do not lose efficiency when the temperature changes.
Can be used to process car thresholds.
This composition cannot be treated with anything over the finishing layer. Otherwise, it will lose all protective properties.
It is also worth noting that the paints are presented in several containers:
- anti-gravel for cars in a can;
- a jar of liquid composition for application with a brush or remote control.
How to apply anti-gravel coating?
Before use, you can dip the anti-gravel bottle into a bucket of hot water and leave for a few minutes. The composition will become more fluid and will mix better when shaken and sprayed.
Shake the can for 3 minutes before use.
The anti-gravel compound can be applied with a brush or roller, but the best option is using compressed air and a special gun.
The gun must have a 4mm nozzle. Apply at a pressure of 4–7 bar.
The temperature during application should be from +10 to +25.
When spraying, keep at a distance of approximately 20 cm.
After use, turn the can upside down and spray until clean air comes out.
First, a thin layer is applied, then the remaining layers create the desired structure and film.
Apply 2–3 layers. The break between layers is 2–5 minutes. After each layer you need to shake the can.
The optimal thickness of the anti-gravel coating is 1 mm.
Do not spray onto exhaust system or engine components.
Drying time at 20 degrees Celsius: after an hour - it stops sticking, after two hours - it can be coated with paint.
After complete drying, the unpainted anti-gravel coating becomes matte.
DIY processing
Gravitex can be applied correctly in several ways. The technology will depend on the method of combining the protective layers of metal. But there are a number of preparatory operations that are valid for all types of anti-gravel treatment.
- Thoroughly wash and dry the surface to be treated;
- remove all areas of corrosion;
- degrease the surface;
As we saw with the example of Novol GRAVIT 600 MS, the manufacturer allows gravitex to be applied to “bare” metal. If you applied gravitex to unprotected metal, after drying the surface must be varnished.
Anti-gravel, if you look at it under a microscope, has a porous structure, which suggests the ingress of some amount of moisture. In addition, constant temperature changes and gravel flying from under the wheels have a negative impact on the coating.
Over time, the protective layer will crack and begin to peel off (after 3-4 years this can happen even if you apply anti-gravel to an old glossy paintwork). Therefore, we recommend priming the surface before treating with gravitex. After drying, the primer should be sanded with P240 abrasive, and only then the compound should be applied. Even if you used a primer, coating with varnish will only increase the degree of protection.
Is it possible to apply anti-gravel to “bare” metal?
Although anti-gravel has anti-corrosion properties, for better protection it is recommended to treat clean metal first with acid primer, then with acrylic filling primer, and then anti-gravel on top. Or, if the metal is rust-free, then you can apply epoxy primer, and then anti-gravel. In this case, the treated areas will have good protection. Also, the instructions for modern bitumen-free anti-gravel compounds indicate the possibility of applying them directly to acidic soil.
How to use it correctly
Before you start working with the substance, you must carefully prepare the surface of the car. To do this, do the following:
- Clean areas covered with rust;
- Thoroughly wash the surface and completely degrease it;
- Remove varnish and putty;
- The exception is the aerosol type substance, since it cannot be applied to a smooth surface.
Anti-gravel is applied (in a can) as follows:
- After reading the instructions, the motorist gets to work;
- The surface intended to be coated with the substance must be primed;
- Neighboring areas are covered with tape;
- The can must be shaken to distribute the liquid evenly;
- The contents are sprayed from a distance of 25 centimeters from the working surface and the mixture should cover the tape so that the border between the areas is completely covered;
- If necessary, the product is applied in several layers to create a film of the required thickness;
- The product is allowed to dry, after which, if possible, the surface is coated with paint.
It should be noted that anti-gravel perfectly protects the surface from mechanical damage and corrosion and at the same time creates a beautiful, aesthetic appearance of the car even without painting. On the other hand, the fact that the product is applied to the surface very easily and simply completely smoothes out all sorts of imperfections of the top layer of coating, which may have a grainy surface when drying.
It is very important to pay attention to the shelf life of the mixture, since the quality of its protection after application depends on this indicator.
Aerosols
AUTO
This product's formula contains a decent concentration of zinc. This metal is one of the best materials for protecting surfaces made of steel. It reliably protects against the occurrence of corrosion processes and accidental impacts. The resulting coating is quite reliable and durable. The composition is quite fluid, so it can completely cover all thresholds, including various kinds of bends and hard-to-reach areas. One cylinder is unlikely to be enough for all the elements that need protection; you will have to use about 3-5 cylinders - this is unlikely to hit your wallet hard, since the products are not too expensive.
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There is no need for special skills or experience to use these products. The composition is of high quality, reliably protects the paint layer from damage - both minor and very significant.
Advantages:
- Reasonable cost;
- Ease of application;
- The product can be used by a person without experience;
- Covers well the entire metal surface of the body element.
Flaws:
- Only black aerosol is available for sale;
- Significant consumption of products.
Anti-gravel AUTON
Liquid anti-gravel Liqui Moly 6109
The formula was developed by German chemists. Today, this anti-gravel composition is one of the best on the market, largely due to its excellent protective characteristics. The formula is such that the aerosol hardens literally within a few seconds after application. The result is a fairly elastic and durable film. When applied, the product foams and increases in volume. Only black aerosol is available for sale. It can be easily combined with almost all types of paints - water-soluble, alkyd, acrylic.
The cylinder is equipped with a very convenient sprayer, which allows you to significantly reduce product consumption. The surface of metal elements, including the paint and varnish coating, receives reliable protection. The products turned out to be of very high quality; they are in great demand among both professionals and car enthusiasts.
Advantages:
- Carefully thought out formula of the product;
- Forms a film that protects metal and paint from damage;
- Convenient sprayer;
- Insignificant consumption of funds;
- Easily resists any negative external influences.
Flaws:
- Quite expensive;
- Must be applied in several layers.
Liquid anti-gravel Liqui Moly 6109
Anti-gravel Hi-Gear
The effect of using this composition is quite comparable to the characteristics of liquid rubber. The formula has excellent adhesion regardless of the type of surface, so it can be used to preserve absolutely the entire car body. Many users also note the quality of this substance as absolute transparency, so it can be used on the body regardless of its original color. The composition is very expensive, so you will have to spend a decent amount on processing all body elements. One cylinder is enough to process one not too large part.
Before using this composition directly, it is advisable to carefully check the quality of the paint coating, because a thin layer of paint can come off along with the anti-gravel. It’s easy to use anti-gravel, the main thing is to clean the metal surface of dirt and thoroughly degrease it before applying it.
Advantages:
- The absolute transparency of the composition allows you to work with body parts regardless of their color;
- Reliably protects the body from gravel;
- Easy to apply.
Flaws:
- It's very expensive.
Anti-gravel Hi-Gear
Body 950
A completely synthetic substance that was developed by famous Greek specialists in the field of manufacturing chemicals for cars. It is intended exclusively for treating the wheel arches and sills of the car, that is, areas of the body that are most vulnerable to gravel impacts. After complete drying, the substance forms a characteristic lumpy layer on the treated surface. There are not too many colors of this composition here - anti-gravel is sold in only three versions - gray, white and black.
One cylinder is enough for a not too large area, so it is advisable to purchase several at once. Before treating the surface, you need to thoroughly clean the element from any contaminants so that not the slightest trace of dirt or dust remains on it. Next, the surface is degreased and treated with sandpaper, since the formula is not characterized by very good adhesion to smooth surfaces.
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Advantages:
- The bottle is not very expensive;
- Found in almost every automotive chemical store;
- Reliably protects metal surfaces from gravel impacts.
Flaws:
- Significant consumption of funds;
- The surface must be carefully prepared before treatment.
Body 950
Advantages and disadvantages
Like any other automotive product, anti-gravel has certain advantages and disadvantages. Before purchasing, you should be aware of each of these points.
pros
- ease of application and drying (no special products required);
- anti-gravel in cylinders is compatible with plastics, metals and paintwork;
- elasticity and plasticity of the material - during hardening, the coating becomes like rubber, which increases the protective qualities of the anti-gravel coating;
- improved sound insulation;
- works well as a putty on small cracks.
Minuses
- the presence of synthetic compounds in the composition of anti-gravel means that without special protective equipment (goggles, respirator), working with the material is strictly prohibited.
How to prepare a surface for applying an anti-gravel compound?
It is important to properly prepare the surface before applying the anti-gravel coating. There should be no rust left. Sandblasting is perhaps the best way to prevent corrosion, but you can also use wire attachments on a drill and grinding wheels on an angle grinder. For more details, you can read the article “removing rust from a car body.” The surface must be washed, dried thoroughly and degreased.
Before spraying anti-gravel, you need to coat the welds and joints with a brush with a special joint sealant, and you can also apply primer with zinc.
It is necessary to cover adjacent surfaces using covering material and masking tape.
In case of application on a paint coating or acrylic primer, matting under anti-gravel can be done with sanding paper from p240 to p600.
Surfaces that are not subject to anti-gravel application must be covered with masking tape and covering materials.
In general, you need to prepare the surface as for painting.
The best aerosol anti-gravel products
An aerosol can is the most convenient form factor for applying anti-gravel to car sills. Even a child can cope with the task, but you should understand that this is also the most expensive option. The price of a can varies from 100 to 500 rubles, but one bottle is not enough to cover all thresholds, especially if you apply protection with the recommended layer of 200 microns. But no additional devices are required, which is a definite plus.
Liqui Moly 6109
Best protective properties Country: Germany Average price: RUB 1,154.
Anti-gravel, originally from Germany, is considered one of the best due to its high degree of protective properties. The composition ensures the elasticity and strength of the resulting film. When applied, the product foams and increases in volume. Available on the market in black. Compatible with many types of paints (acrylic, water-soluble, alkyd).
Liqui Moly is equipped with a convenient sprayer that ensures optimal consumption of the contents. Resists adverse external influences and the consequences of operation. It has a high cost and corresponding quality. Judging by the reviews, the product is popular among both professionals and car enthusiasts.
Many users quite reasonably wonder which of the available means is the most effective in the case of protection against gravel: traditional anti-gravel, liquid vinyl, bitumen mastic or anti-corrosive agent. What are their main advantages and disadvantages - we find out from the comparison table:
Product type | pros | Minuses |
Anti-gravel | + Excellent adhesion with a large number of coatings + Safe for paintwork + Can be applied either over paint or as an intermediate layer between the base metal and the final coat + Good body sound insulation + Complete preservation of the treated surface + Reliable protection from external mechanical influences | – High cost of the composition for an aerosol (and slightly less high for a spray gun) – Toxicity of polymer compounds of the composition |
Liquid vinyl (liquid paint) | + Combines the features of anti-gravel film and liquid anti-gravel + Easy to apply and remove + A large number of colors in matte and glossy versions The presence of special colors (mother of pearl, neon, chameleon) and colorless composition + Can be applied to paintwork, which provides complete protection from external mechanical influences | - High price – There is a high probability of the layer peeling off in case of carelessness |
Bitumen mastic | + Can be applied both over paint and under coating + Bitumen-based composition has good adhesion + Complete protection against gravel impact + Has excellent sound insulation + Reduces the level of vibrations of body elements and the frequency of their resonance | - High price – Viscosity, which prevents application of the product in hard-to-reach places |
Rust converter | + Low cost + Formation of soil based on polymer compounds + Completely “preserves” the treated surface | – In most cases, it is aggressive towards the paintwork (the active substances react) |
Hi-Gear
Convenient application Country: USA Average price: 730 rub.
Anti-gravel, the effect of which is comparable to the properties of liquid rubber. It has excellent adhesion to any type of surface, so it can be used to preserve the entire car body, which is also facilitated by complete transparency. It is a very expensive product, since one can (volume 314 grams) is enough to thoroughly process one body part.
Another feature of anti-gravel from Hi-Gear is the removal of the film: before using the product, you should be sure that the paintwork is of high quality, since a thin layer of paint can “slide off” right with the film.
Advantages:
- complete transparency of the film allows you to process painted body parts;
- application does not cause much difficulty;
- Full protection of the body from gravel.
Flaws:
- high cost of complete auto treatment.
Movil ASTROhim
Who doesn't know Movil? An old, proven remedy, known since Soviet times. Until now, this anti-gravel has not lost its popularity: it is often used to treat car joints and thresholds. The substance perfectly absorbs moisture, provides excellent protection against corrosion and does not have a pungent odor - what is needed for a good anti-gravel agent. It is used more than economically and is relatively inexpensive compared to other products in the presented product segment.
Weight (g) | 710 |
Quantity (l) | 1 |
Manufacturer country | Russia |
Color | black |
Price: from 349 to 360 rub.
pros
- resistant to temperature changes;
- if it gets on the fender of a car, the drug can be easily removed with gasoline;
- excellent rust impregnation;
- average level of spreadability over the surface.
Minuses
- no serious deficiencies were identified.
Movil is simply a veteran among anti-gravel products in Russia! Probably everyone knows about this tool. I’ve been using it for a long time, I haven’t had any problems with it, I’m satisfied with both the quality and the price.
Rust Stop
Eco-friendly Rust Stop is another excellent anti-gravel product that boasts high efficiency due to its composition. It contains technologically purified oil, which deeply and effectively saturates the surface, displacing moisture.
Weight (g) | 1115 |
Quantity (l) | 1 |
A country | Russia |
Color | black |
Cost: from 914 to 990 rubles.
pros
- resistance to mechanical damage;
- the film does not peel off or crack;
- environmentally friendly composition that blocks the ingress of moisture, oxygen and salt;
- convenient to apply;
- does not require careful surface preparation.
Minuses
- not found.
The salesperson in the store advised Rust Stop. Previously I had another anti-gravel, but I decided to try some new product. As a result, the result was 5+, he did an excellent job with problem areas of the car.
HB BODY PRO 951 Autoflex
It is made on a rubber base, and after drying it becomes very durable and elastic. Adhesion is high - the material easily adheres to any surfaces, including paints and varnishes. The substance is absolutely colorless, so it can be applied both before and after painting.
The product is sprayed using a gun and compressed air. The working pressure should be about 5-6 atmospheres; it is advisable that a narrow nozzle be installed in the gun. The layer will not be very thick, but the application will be uniform.
Advantages:
- Excellent quality;
- Rubber-based products;
- Apply a thin layer.
Flaws:
- It's very expensive.
KERRY
Which anti-gravel spray in a can is best for thresholds? Experts recommend the Russian-made composition Kerry. Sold in 650 ml cans with a convenient spray. The composition is suitable not only for treating sills, but also other body parts, including the lower part of the bumper.
Pros:
- forms a durable elastic coating;
- provides reliable protection against scratches and chips, provides a good level of noise insulation;
- The product has been certified in accordance with GOST.
The downside is that you can’t buy the product in all stores, but you can always order Gravitex in online stores.
AUTO
Inexpensive but good anti-gravel in a can for protecting steel surfaces. The coating protects against corrosion and damage caused by flying stones. The product contains zinc, which provides increased durability of the coating. In addition, the product is inexpensive. Therefore, many car enthusiasts, when deciding which anti-gravel is best for car sills, give preference to AUTON.
Pros:
- good protective properties;
- ease of use;
- You can buy it at any auto store.
No critical shortcomings were identified, except that you have to buy 3-5 cans to carry out a complete treatment.
Novol Gravit MS 600
This substance can be called universal, since it easily covers the most vulnerable parts of the car and creates a protective film on them. Thus, salts, water and acids do not get there.
The product is applied to the surface through a special hose directly from the can. Motorists apply this product in several layers, making the surface more protected. The substance can be used to treat a large area of the car body.
After drying, the film remains elastic for a long time and does not dry out or crack. Thanks to this, the substance can be classified as one that saves the budget. In addition, the substance can only be sprayed with a special gun. The substance costs 406 rubles per 1 liter.
Advantages:
- Inexpensive;
- Allows you to cover a large area;
- Slight graininess when drying;
- Sprays evenly;
- The surface can be painted;
- There are no scratches when removing the protective film.
Flaws:
- Does not always protect against the effects of corrosion on metal.
BODY 900
The substance contains:
- wax;
- synthetic resins;
- anti-corrosion additives.
The liquid has good fluidity, due to which it completely fills all parts of the car that are difficult to reach. In addition, the substance adheres well to the working surface. Anti-gravel holds well at any temperature and remains elastic. The colorless product allows it to be used on surfaces of any color. There is also a brown version of the substance on sale. The cost of the product depends on the capacity:
- 0.4 l - 390 rubles;
- 1 liter - 910 rubles.
Advantages:
- Affordable price;
- Dries quickly;
- Non-toxic;
- Well protects against corrosion;
- You can add solvent;
- Packaged in cans for use with a gun or spray.
Flaws:
- The dried film is very thin;
- Packaged only in half liter or liter quantities.
Using anti-gravel products, motorists create a protective coating for their vehicles without visiting service stations (service stations). The only thing you need for this is to choose the right mixture so that it meets all the consumer’s requirements. Thus, the car will be completely protected from corrosion and mechanical damage from stones flying from under the wheels.
To choose the right anti-gravel product, you need to adhere to the following tips:
- The price/quality ratio can be found in the HB BODY SA mixture. It can be used to cover large areas. In this case, the mixture can be applied to the surface in different ways. The only negative is that the choice of color depends on whether the car will be painted or not.
- A completely cheap version of the mixture is a product from the Russian manufacturer KERRY. It dries well and quickly, protecting the car. The structure of the film is completely suitable for painting.
- Liqui Moly 6109 will protect the surface of the car as much as possible. But unfortunately, a large amount of this drug is needed, and the manufacturer has set a number of restrictions on use.
New “cosmetic products” for cars appear on the automotive market every day. This is all thanks to new laboratories and specialized companies that specifically develop new technologies, as well as work to improve existing products. For these reasons, you need to be careful when choosing an anti-gravel product, and only then will you get the expected result.
Dinitrol 479
This product not only prevents the occurrence and development of corrosion processes, but also significantly increases the sound insulation of the body. This substance is used to treat external and internal surfaces - the bottom, the body itself, wheel arches, sills. The composition has fairly high quality characteristics. Adhesion is very high - the composition reliably connects to metal and plastic substrates. The formula is developed on the basis of synthetic rubber - when applied, it does not begin to flow from the base.
The products will easily withstand severe frosts and hot weather. After drying, an elastic layer is formed that tightly envelops all body elements. With its help you can heal even minor scratches.
Advantages:
- Manufactured on the basis of synthetic rubber;
- Does not drip when applied;
- Adheses well to any substrate;
- Heals shallow scratches.
Flaws:
- When applied, a decent pressure should be created - up to 9 atmospheres.
Comparison of characteristics
Kinds | Price, rub.) | Types of flowers | Volume (l) | Manufacturer | Rating | |||
Aerosol anti-gravel agents | ||||||||
HB BODY "950" | 400-500 | White, gray and black | 1; 0,4 | Greece | 10 | |||
KERRY "KR-970" | 300-400 | GREY-black | 0.65 | Russia | 9,6 | |||
Liqui Moly "6109" | 1000-1200 | Black | 0,65 | Germany | 9,5 | |||
Hi-Gear "Chip Stop Protector Clear" | 500-700 | Transparent | 0,31 | USA | 9,2 | |||
Anti-gravel agents with spray application | ||||||||
HB BODY "900" | 300-500 | transparent, brown | 0,5; 1 | Greece | 10 | |||
Dinitrol "479" | 700-1000 | black | 1 | Sweden | 9,8 | |||
Novol Gravit "MS 600" | 400-500 | black, white, gray | 1 | Poland | 9,7 |
Which anti-gravel for cars is better?
A review of anti-gravel with a rating will allow you to understand which product is more convenient and better to use. The most popular option is spray cans, as they are the easiest to use. It is advisable to take into account the chemical composition when choosing, since it may vary.
For arches
It’s most convenient to spray curved arches with spray cans; you can use a spray gun, but this is a more labor-intensive method. Eventually you will need to sand down the areas of the attachments with sandpaper.
Important! During work, glasses are used to protect the eyes. They will also prevent the ingress of dust and pieces of rust that fly in different directions.
After treating the arch with a spray can, you need to go over the surfaces with a nitro solvent and cover the remaining areas with masking tape. The pendant is wrapped in polyethylene for similar reasons.
Car arches must be protected; it is most convenient to use anti-gravel in cans to solve such problems
For thresholds
Thresholds should be protected with bitumen-based compounds and painted. Work can be carried out regularly, including immediately after purchasing a car. Protection wears out over time; factory protection is often simply not enough. Aerosols are most convenient to apply to thresholds. The products in the cans are used directly on bare metal, the adhesion is excellent. If everything is done correctly, a protective, reliable film will be formed that prevents corrosion.
Repeating the texture of the factory coating
You can first apply an anti-gravel composition to the cardboard and compare it with the original, factory texture.
Different structures of anti-gravel coating can be achieved due to:
To avoid too large shagreen, you can dilute the anti-gravel composition with a thinner.
Application using an aerosol can
Shake the can thoroughly before applying and between coats.
You need to spray at a distance of 30–35 cm. This will prevent the appearance of unwanted bubbles. Considering the smaller thickness of the coating when spraying with an aerosol can, at least three layers must be applied.
After completing the spraying, you need to turn the can upside down and spray until clean air comes out. This will clean the canister nozzle.
What to look for when choosing?
Last but not least important point of our article. What should you pay attention to when purchasing? In fact, everything is simple here:
- Best before date.
The most obvious detail, which, however, is not often looked at by buyers. Expired anti-gravel completely loses its useful qualities, it does not spray well, and the texture becomes uneven.
- Type of anti-gravel.
There are a few of them:
- the texture of the material is smooth and textured;
- anti-gravel, which is used on certain elements of the car;
- anti-gravel, allowing subsequent painting.
Before purchasing, be sure to study the list for which a particular product is suitable.
- Price.
A high price does not always mean ideal product parameters, just as low cost does not mean poor performance. Read all available information regarding the product before purchasing, and only then pay attention to the numbers indicated on the tag.
Antigravity Body Series 950
Anti-gravel Body 951 AUTOFLEX for steel body elements
Black anti-gravel is one of the most popular models in Russian service centers, as it is inexpensive and has quite high protective properties. Of the nuances - it is used only with anti-gravel guns (gravitex), it will not fit under a brush.
The composition is 80% rubber, so this coating can withstand even small dents. Compatible with all automotive paints and varnishes, but they are applied only after the gravitex has completely dried. Apply at least 2 layers - this provides a coverage of 250 microns. The color is black, the surface is structured.
Average consumption - 1 bottle is enough for 1 square meter, if you paint in 2 layers. Dries completely in 3 hours. Has soundproofing properties. The average price of a 1 liter cylinder is 950 rubles.
Pros:
- Suitable for both painted and bare metal;
- Resistant to cracking, even if a dent is received.
Minuses:
- applied only with an anti-gravel gun;
- high consumption (if you follow the instructions).
Anti-gravel BODY 950 gray with soundproofing properties
Gray anti-gravel based on rubber. It is a complete analogue of Body 951 AUTOFLEX, the only difference is the gray color. Also applied only with a special gun, it ultimately creates a hard, elastic coating that is resistant to cracking even when dents appear.
It is compatible with metal coatings, but it also adheres well to plastic and does not “stick”. Withstands temperature changes from -30 to 120 degrees. The coating is textured, closer to matte, but a slight shine is still present. Compatible with all automotive paint coatings, but applied only to a dry base.
Dries in 3 – 3.5 hours. It has soundproofing and noise-reducing properties. Available in 1 liter cylinders, the average price is 950 rubles.
Pros:
- compatible with both bare and painted metal;
- cracks do not appear even on dents.
Minuses:
- cylinder only for gravitex pistols;
- high consumption.
How to remove anti-gravel from the body
If you have already treated the thresholds and other areas of the car body, then you may be interested in the question of how to remove or how to wash anti-gravel from the car body. After all, over time you have to remove the old coating.
To do this, you need to use aggressive solvents, since the base on which anti-gravel products are created is quite strong, so you can’t do without “heavy artillery”!
The first option is solvent 646. It is advisable to use cotton wool and a brush with it. There is no need to get too carried away during the work, since there is always a risk of damaging the paintwork with such an aggressive agent.
First, use a soft brush to spread the solvent over the surface to be cleaned. Usually, if there are no caked pieces, this is enough and under the influence of a brush, the anti-gravel perfectly lags behind the paintwork. If not, you can use cotton wool or a soft cloth. The main thing is not to rush and do everything carefully!
If the varnish nevertheless darkens after such a procedure or loses its shine, it can always be treated with ZM No. 74 paste. If necessary, you will need to remove stains from the case in the future.
You need to work outside or in a well-ventilated area, since the solvent not only has a strong, unpleasant odor, but its fumes are also harmful to the human body.
The second option is white spirit or pure acetone. The cleaning procedure is similar. However, before removing anti-gravel, it is better to try to do this somewhere in a remote place in order to make sure that these products will not damage the paint or varnish on the car body.
Please note that the paint is not varnished everywhere (for example, on the thresholds it may not be coated on some cars), so you need to work carefully so as not to damage the paintwork.
The third option is products for removing bitumen stains from the car body. They can be used to scrub not only the resin itself, but also the anti-gravel coating. This is true only if the anti-gravel was bitumen-based.
Can anti-gravel coating be painted?
If applied incorrectly, anti-gravel coating often turns out uneven and may have pores. Also, if the storage period and conditions are violated, it will be impossible to mix the composition well and it will not be sprayed correctly, leaving pores. To ensure that the surface is protected from moisture penetration, it is better to paint the applied anti-gravel coating with paint or varnish.
Painting will extend the service life of the anti-gravel coating and add decorative properties.
There are paintable and non-paintable anti-gravel compounds.
Modern anti-gravel compounds contain synthetic polymers and do not contain bitumen, which makes it possible to paint them after drying.
To ensure that the paint coating will adhere to the anti-gravel coating, the anti-gravel container must bear the inscription Overpaintable, indicating that paint can be applied over the coating.
Tips and tricks
Treating arches, sills, and underbody is a good way to prevent paint damage. The cost of such treatment will largely depend on the price of the product, especially if the entire body requires maintenance.
Important! Anti-gravel in cans is used approximately once a year - usually this is enough.
For everyday amateur use, ordinary spray cans are sufficient, so there is no point in paying for professional products. Universal formulas are effective and practical, you can safely stop at them. When choosing, you should pay attention to additional effects such as shagreen, graininess. The type of application is chosen taking into account the nature of the work, the area of protection must also correspond. Ideally, the higher the adhesion, the better.