Mastering Anti-gravel in car bodywork

Everything you need to know about Anti-gravel for repairs:

Anti-corrosion is now at the heart of every technology applied to car protection. A well-maintained car needs to be treated with the right products, designed to withstand the shocks and splashes caused by gravelling. Each exposed part can benefit from a solution specially developed to ensure greater durability. When it comes to choosing the product to add to your maintenance, it's essential to opt for a formulation designed exclusively to offer optimum protection.

The basis of any effective intervention is rigorous preparation, storage in the right conditions and an Easy to use product. Thanks to these processes, anti-corrosion performance remains constant over time. The price may vary depending on the range, but the search for the best value for money always guides professional and private users in their choice.

By combining innovation and practicality, these anti-corrosion solutions help to protect the car against natural wear and tear and the aggressions of the road, while extending the life of each exposed part.

Depending on the range available, the quantity of product chosen should be adapted to the actual needs of the repair. Available by the litre or in Spray, these synthetic resin-based coatings ensure even, uniform application. Performance also depends on the pressure used when spraying, ensuring an even protective layer. Precise selection of the packaging and method of application can therefore optimise the effectiveness of the treatment while keeping product consumption under control.

In car repairs, an Anti-gravel product is a protective coating applied to the bodywork (especially rocker panels, wheel arches and exposed lower parts) to protect it:

• from stone chips, pebbles, salt, mud and dust, which can cause paintwork chipping and corrosion
• against humidity and the resulting formation of rust
• Against the mechanical impacts of road use

What are the characteristics of Anti-gravel?

1. Elastic and impact-resistant:

It absorbs the impact of gravel without cracking or splintering.

2. High adhesion :

It bonds well to metal, primer and sometimes plastic (depending on the product)

3. Waterproof:

Protects against water, humidity, mud, salt and therefore corrosion.

4. Paintable :

Can be finished with a paint after drying (depending on version)

5. Soundproofing :

For certain products, it reduces the noise of splashes and vibrations.

What are the advantages of Anti-gravel?

Anti-gravel products for bodywork have a number of advantages, as they provide both mechanical protection and a barrier against corrosion. Here are the main ones:

1. Physical protection :

• Impact resistance: absorbs stone chips, pebbles and road debris without splintering or cracking.
• Paint chip reduction: prevents the Topcoat from being damaged by impacts

2. Chemical and environmental protection :

• Moisture and salt barrier: prevents water, road salt or mud from penetrating the metal
• Rust prevention: limits the risk of oxidation and corrosion on exposed lower parts.

3. Versatile and attractive :

• Can be painted (depending on type) to blend in with the bodywork colour
• Available in a range of finishes and colours: smooth, textured, black, grey, white
• Improves the durability of bodywork repairs by enhancing protection

4. Comfort and safety :

• Reduced road noise: some products also have a soundproofing effect by dampening vibrations
• Extended vehicle life: by protecting sensitive areas, costly future repairs are reduced.

In short, Anti-gravel is long-term insurance, effectively protecting the bodywork from road damage, preventing rust and prolonging the life of repairs.

How do I apply Anti-gravel?

1. Preparing the surface:

• Clean the surface thoroughly (remove dirt, grease and traces of rust).
• Lightly sand the surface if necessary to improve adhesion
• Degrease with a suitable solvent (Thinner or bodywork degreaser).

2. Applying the product :

• Mix the Spray can or Anti-gravel cartridge well before use.
• Apply thin, even coats at a distance of approximately 20-30cm (foraerosols/spray guns).
• Apply 2 to 3 criss-cross coats to achieve a good thickness
• Allow to dry between coats (the time depends on the product data sheet, often 10 to 20 minutes on the surface).

3. Drying time and finish :

• Allow to dry completely (a few hours at room temperature, or more quickly in a heated booth).
• Once dry, the product can be covered with body paint.

4. A few Tech'team tips :

• Wear safety equipment: gloves, mask, goggles, Coveralls
• Do not apply to poorly prepared surfaces (poor adhesion)
• Respect the temperature and humidity recommended by the manufacturer.

How can I protect my bodywork against rust?

When it comes to repairing car bodywork, there are several solutions for preventing rust and providing lasting protection for sheet metal:

1. Regular prevention :

• Wash the vehicle frequently: especially in winter, after exposure to de-icing salt.
• Dry the bodywork thoroughly after washing to avoid moisture stagnation
• Apply a protective Wax or polish: 2 to 3 times a year to create a water-repellent barrier.

2. Specific anti-rust treatment :

• Anti-corrosion primer: used in bodywork before paintwork, it insulates the metal.
• Rust converters (if corrosion is already present): transform rust into a stable surface before repairing
• Anti-gravel: protects the lower parts of the body (sills, wheel arches) from impact, moisture and salt.
• Hollow-body Wax: sprayed into internal parts (side members, door sills), it prevents moisture from seeping in.

3. Repair defects quickly :

• Monitor the bodywork regularly and treat any paint chips or deep scratches as soon as possible.
• Immediately sand and repaint areas where the sheet metal is bare (if rust sets in quickly).

Discover our Anti-gravel products for your car repairs:

Find all our product categories for your bodywork work: Preparation, Paint, Finishing, Consumables offered at the best prices to help you keep your stock costs under control. Find the biggest brands: PPG, Cromax, Nexa Autocolor, Spies Hecker, Standox, Glasurit... Our sales department is on hand to help you choose the right product for your needs before you buy. Don't hesitate to follow our team's recommendations or advice to ensure superb results. For more information, contact us by email or telephone or visit our website.