Once all fiberglass repairs are made and the primer work is complete, it is then time to apply the actual paint and clear coat to the RV surface. Adequate supplies of clean compressed air will be required throughout this painting process. When spraying primers or paints, the appropriate NIOSH/MSHA respirator must be used.

A professional painter understands the numerous variables in painting that include type of spray gun, carefully following the paint manufacturer's instructions, spraying techniques and paint patterns. Select the preferred spray gun based on suction, gravity, flow, high volume, low pressure, and type of paint or top coating to be applied. Diamont Base Color paints are catalyzed polyester paint that requires a clear coating to produce a high gloss finish. Base color paints, when dry, are flat.

A clean and sanded surface will promote adhesion. If the primer has been allowed to sit for more than 12 hours, scuff over the painted area using a gray Scotch Brite pad. Adhesive promoters should be used on all flexible and plastic surfaces.

Prior to spraying paint onto the surface, it is important to first insure that the paint site is thoroughly cleaned. To clean, wipe the entire area with a pre-paint cleanser. All nooks and crannies should be cleared using air pressure of 30-35 PSI. Once the area is thoroughly dry, wipe with a tack rag to remove dust particles. Finish by applying quality masking paper to all adjacent areas for protection against over spray. Use masking paper that will guard against penetration or seepage.

Metal etch primer, preferably a thin layer of DE 17, should be applied to exposed metal areas in the repair site prior to sealing. Under all base coats, apply a two-part urethane transparent sealer. DE 30 sealer is recommended to help minimize sand scratches and improve adhesion between paint and primer. Depending on paint color to be applied, light or dark sealer should be used. Follow the paint manufacturer mixing-ratio for the sealer. Proper mixing is essential. Avoid estimating, measure carefully. There are no sanding requirements once the sealer is applied before applying the topcoat. The sealer will usually dry in 45 minutes at a temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the sealer has dried, the first color can then be applied.

A properly filtered and ventilated paint booth provides the environment for optimum paint results. For multiple color repair, determine which color to first apply based on what will be the easiest to mask, for example, pin striping. When applying base colors, 5 to 10 minutes flash time is required between layers, and each layer should be between .75 to 1.0 mils thick.

Allow each color to dry to the touch. Once the base color no longer looks wet and has lost its shine, test to insure that the paint does not fingerprint on the taped area. If the area has adequately dried, lightly sand to remove small imperfections using 1200-grit sandpaper. Tack rag areas where sandpaper was used between layers.

Once the last coat of paint has been given ample time to dry, the final process of clear coating can be applied. Size of the repair, as well as surrounding environment will determine the appropriate type of clear coat for use. Seek assistance with a representative at a BASF paint supplier for recommendations of clear coat. As with the painting process, cleaning will help to promote adhesion of the clear coat layer. Use a tack rag over the entire painted area to remove dust particles prior to application of the initial clear coat layer. Each layer of clear coat should be approximately .75 mils in layered thickness. Allow 20 minutes flash time between each coat. Generally, three coats of clear are sufficient to provide the high gloss finish. The final coat of clear will require 2.2 mils of material. In the event flat cutting or buffing is going to be performed, apply a fourth coat of clear.