Our Guide to Cutting Compound

While modern finishing technologies have evolved greatly throughout the decades, weather conditions, the natural oxidation process, and other harsh elements make cars susceptible to paint scratches and scrapes. However, with the help of a car cutting compound solution, you can restore and improve your car’s appearance to get it looking like new.

Because the car’s exterior comprises three protective layers (base primer, mid-layer colour, and top, clear finishing coat), using the right substance and employing the proper techniques is crucial to remove imperfections. This guide will explain what cutting compound is and the steps to get a shiny and scuff-free car.

What is Cutting Compound?

Cutting compound is a highly effective paste containing an abrasive substance used to remove surface imperfections on vehicles. When applied using an appropriate polishing pad or cloth, the abrasive particles remove scratches, light swirl marks, oxidation, and other blemishes that can appear with time.

Its abrasive action selectively removes a thin layer of the top coat, levelling uneven surfaces and restoring the paint’s shine and clarity. It is an essential tool in achieving flawless results and enhancing the overall appearance of vehicles.

Types of Cutting Compound

Different types of cutting compounds are available, each serving a specific purpose. It’s important to use the right one to avoid removing more layers of paint than necessary, further damaging your car:

1. Heavy-cutting compounds: Designed for severe paint imperfections like deep scratches and heavy oxidation. They possess aggressive cutting power to remove significant paint layers and level the surface.
2. Medium compounds: Are suitable for imperfections, such as moderate scratch marks, leaving behind a smoother gloss finish.
3. Fine-cutting compounds: Are ideal for light scratches and enhancing glossiness. They provide a gentle polishing action to bring out a high level of shine.

What are the benefits?

Compound solutions do a great job of achieving professional-level results to enhance the beauty and value of a car. It offers several benefits by removing surface defects, like scratches and swirl marks, and improving the overall appearance and shine of the paintwork. Compared to traditional polishing methods, the compound’s abrasive properties allow for deeper cleaning and paint restoration, saving time and effort.

How to use Cutting Compound?

Before getting started, it is crucial to assess the depth and severity of scratches beforehand. A standard cutting compound is typically suitable for surface-level scratches and common imperfections. However, a more aggressive or heavy-duty compound may be necessary for deeper scratches penetrating multiple layers.

For light scratches, the hand method is sufficient; however, for deeper scratches, a buffer machine can help you get better results. But note that using a buffer machine requires a specific skill set and is best left to experts in car body repair services to avoid causing more damage to the vehicle.

Preparing the area and the vehicle

Before applying the product, ensure the car’s surface is clean and free from dirt and debris. Wash and dry the vehicle thoroughly to ensure a clean canvas.

Working in sections

Divide the surface into manageable sections. Apply a small amount of cutting in a buffing pad or clean microfibre cloth and spread it evenly on the section you’re working on. If you’re doing it by hand, rub the paste in a back-and-forth motion. When using a buffing machine, apply the paste with the polishing pad and do not yet turn on the polisher. Once the paste has been applied, turn it on, start with light pressure, and gradually increase if required.

Always test a small area before you continue, as some are harsher than others. Make sure the vehicle is not in direct sunlight when applying the paste.

Removing excess product after application

Once you’ve worked the into the surface, use a clean microfiber cloth to remove the excess product. Wipe in a circular or back-and-forth motion, removing all residue for a smooth finish.

Finishing touch

Inspect the surface for any remaining imperfections. If necessary, repeat the process. However, if you’re using a polishing machine, avoid putting too much stress on the area, especially if it was heated beforehand. Once you’re sure your car looks blemish-free, follow up with a finer compound or polishing compound for a glossy finish and to further enhance the shine and protection of the car’s paint.

With over 500 years of cumulated experience, Axioma’s team of skilled technicians is dedicated to using the latest solutions to restore your car to its original pristine condition in just a few hours. Experience top-quality car scratch repair services at our shop, and contact us now for an accurate quote.