Candy Apple Red is a classic, but its darker, more mysterious cousin, Candy Apple Midnight Blue, is rapidly gaining popularity. This striking automotive paint finish offers a unique blend of deep, rich blue with a shimmering, almost ethereal quality. This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about this captivating paint job, from its history and characteristics to application and maintenance.
What is Candy Apple Midnight Blue Car Paint?
Candy Apple Midnight Blue isn't a single pigment but a multi-layered paint system. It starts with a base coat, usually a dark metallic color like black or dark grey, providing the depth and richness. Then comes the candy coat, a translucent layer of color that allows the base coat to show through while adding its own unique hue. Finally, a clear coat provides a protective layer and intensifies the gloss, creating that incredible shine. The "candy" effect is derived from the translucent nature of the middle layer, allowing the underlying colors to subtly shift and shimmer in the light, creating a depth that's unparalleled in solid-colored paints.
How is Candy Apple Midnight Blue Applied?
Achieving the perfect Candy Apple Midnight Blue finish is a complex process best left to experienced automotive painters. It requires meticulous attention to detail at each stage, from proper surface preparation to precise application of each layer. The entire process typically involves:
- Preparation: Thorough cleaning, sanding, and priming of the car's surface to ensure a perfectly smooth base for the paint.
- Base Coat: Applying a dark base coat, ensuring even coverage without runs or imperfections.
- Candy Coat: This is the crucial step. The candy coat is applied in multiple thin layers, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next. This is what creates the shimmering effect. The number of coats will depend on the desired intensity of the color.
- Clear Coat: A high-quality clear coat is applied to protect the candy layers and add ultimate gloss and shine. Multiple layers are often used to achieve the desired depth and durability.
- Polishing and Buffing: Final polishing and buffing to bring out the full brilliance and smoothness of the finish.
Is Candy Apple Midnight Blue Paint Difficult to Maintain?
While Candy Apple Midnight Blue offers a stunning finish, it does require more meticulous care than solid-color paints. The multiple layers are more susceptible to damage, so regular washing and waxing are essential to maintain its appearance. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaning materials, as these can damage the paint's delicate layers. Regular touch-ups may be necessary to maintain the vibrancy of the color over time.
How Much Does Candy Apple Midnight Blue Car Paint Cost?
The cost of a Candy Apple Midnight Blue paint job can vary significantly based on factors such as the size of the vehicle, the painter's experience and location, and the quality of materials used. Expect to pay significantly more than a standard solid color paint job due to the complexity and additional layers involved.
What are the Alternatives to Candy Apple Midnight Blue?
If you're drawn to the deep, dark blue hues but want a less demanding paint job, consider other options like a deep metallic blue or a pearlescent blue. These finishes offer a rich color without the same level of complexity and maintenance requirements as candy apple.
Where Can I Find a Professional to Apply Candy Apple Midnight Blue Paint?
Finding an experienced automotive painter skilled in applying multi-layer candy paint is crucial for achieving the best results. Check online reviews, ask for recommendations from car enthusiasts, or contact local custom paint shops for quotes and portfolios of their previous work.
Conclusion:
Candy Apple Midnight Blue car paint offers a truly stunning finish, but it's a significant investment requiring both financial commitment and meticulous maintenance. The unique shimmer and deep color make it a worthwhile choice for those seeking a truly distinctive and luxurious look for their vehicle. With proper care and application by a skilled professional, your Candy Apple Midnight Blue paint job will turn heads for years to come.
