Alexei Volkov
Faded plastic is a common issue that can be fixed in several ways. Most fading is caused by oxidization, which results in a rougher texture on the plastic surface. To restore the plastic's appearance, you can use sandpaper, vinegar, or bleach to remove the oxidation layer. If the plastic has been painted before, you may need to repaint it to hide the fading. This involves using a spray primer designed for plastic and then applying spray paint made for plastic. Alternatively, you can use a heat gun to fix faded plastic, but this method requires protecting surrounding painted surfaces with masking tape. Some products, like Car Guys Plastic Restorer and CarPro Dlux, are also recommended for restoring faded plastic.
How to paint faded plastic
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| What to do if nothing else works | Paint the plastic |
| How to restore hard plastic | Use soapy water and sandpaper |
| How to fix faded areas on vinyl plastic | Spray with vinegar and water |
| How to fix fading on softer plastics | Mix detergent, household cleaner, water, and bleach and spray the area |
| Alternative fix for discoloration | Use hydrogen peroxide |
| How to fix fading if the item has been painted in the past | Paint the plastic again |
| How to paint | Place the item on a drop cloth, spray with a primer, wait 1-2 hours, then spray paint |
| How to protect surrounding painted surfaces | Use masking tape to cover the area |
| How to restore faded exterior plastic | Try Solution Finish |
| Alternative product | Car Guys Plastic Restorer |
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What You'll Learn
Preparing the surface
First, identify the type of plastic you are working with. Hard plastics can be scrubbed with sandpaper dipped in soapy water, while vinyl plastic can be sprayed with a mixture of vinegar and water to fix faded areas. Softer plastics, often found in children's toys, storage containers, and souvenirs, can be treated with a mixture of detergent, household cleaner, water, and bleach.
Next, use sandpaper to remove any remaining faded areas and create a smooth surface for painting. For hard plastics, use 150-grit sandpaper dipped in soapy water and rub the surface in a circular motion, covering each faded area 5-6 times. Then, switch to 220-grit sandpaper and repeat the process. Rinse the surface thoroughly with water afterward. This process will help restore the plastic's original texture and provide a good base for the new paint.
If your plastic has been painted before, you will need to use a primer. Place the plastic item on a drop cloth outside and spray it with a primer designed for plastic. Wait 1-2 hours for the primer to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Before painting, protect any surrounding surfaces that you do not want to get paint on. Use masking tape to cover these areas, including any painted surfaces or chrome. Make sure to cover a sufficient area around the plastic to avoid any accidental paint splatters.
Once the surface is properly prepared and protected, you can proceed with painting the plastic using spray paint designed for plastic or a brush with acrylic paint. Hold the spray paint nozzle 8-12 inches away from the surface and move the can back and forth to apply an even layer of paint. Allow the paint to dry completely before handling the item or applying additional coats if needed.
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Choosing the right paint
However, if the plastic item has been painted in the past, the only way to fix fading is to repaint it. In this case, it is important to choose a paint that is specifically designed for plastic. This could be a spray paint or a brush paint, such as acrylic paint. Using a plastic primer before painting is also crucial to ensuring a long-lasting finish. The primer should be designed for plastic and will help the new paint adhere to the surface.
When choosing a paint colour, it is important to consider the original colour of the plastic. If the plastic was originally a dark colour, such as black, finding a matching paint colour can be challenging. Automakers produce black exterior trim in a variety of shades, so finding the right match can be time-consuming and expensive. It is also important to consider the finish of the paint, as a glossy finish may not match a matte finish.
In addition to the colour and finish, the type of paint should be considered. For plastic that has been previously painted, a heat gun can be used to restore the colour by melting the surface layer and bringing the oils and dyes back up. However, this method is temporary, as the oils will eventually degrade and the plastic will fade again. A more permanent solution may be to use a paint that is designed for high heat resistance, especially if the plastic is part of a vehicle.
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Using a primer
Painting faded plastic can be a more complex process than other techniques, requiring proper ventilation and possibly multiple coats for even coverage. However, it offers a durable solution to restoring the appearance of faded plastic items. Before painting, it is crucial to identify the type of plastic you are working with, as this will influence the primer's adhesiveness. For example, plastics that have not been painted before may not require an adhesion promoter.
To prepare the plastic for a primer, it is important to clean and degrease the surface thoroughly. Start by blowing the surface with an air gun to remove any dust or debris. Next, wash the plastic with soap and water, ensuring that it is thoroughly cleaned. If there are any residues remaining, such as sanding residues, clean the surface again. You can also use deionizers to help eliminate any static charge and keep dust particles at bay.
Once the surface is clean and dry, it is time to apply the primer. Choose a spray primer designed specifically for plastic adhesion, as this will ensure a long-lasting finish. Hold the spray nozzle 8–12 inches (20–30 cm) away from the surface and move the can back and forth while holding the nozzle down to apply an even layer of primer. Allow the primer to dry for 1-2 hours.
If you are working with a larger plastic surface, you may need to use an adhesion promoter in container format, which can be applied with a spray gun. This step may be necessary to ensure the paint adheres properly to the plastic surface. After priming, you can proceed with the painting process, following the specific instructions for your chosen paint type and allowing adequate drying time.
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Painting techniques
Before painting, place the item on a drop cloth in a well-ventilated area and use masking tape to cover any surfaces you don't want to get paint on. If the plastic is hard, use sandpaper dipped in soapy water to scrub the surface in a circular motion, covering each faded area 5-6 times. Then, switch to a sheet of 220-grit sandpaper and repeat the process. Rinse the surface and allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
If the plastic is soft, simply clean the surface with your chosen solution and allow it to dry. Once your plastic item is clean and dry, apply a spray primer designed for plastic, holding the nozzle 8-12 inches away from the surface and moving the can back and forth to ensure an even coat. Wait 1-2 hours for the primer to dry.
Once the primer is dry, apply your chosen spray paint for plastic in the same way, holding the nozzle 8-12 inches away from the surface and moving the can back and forth to ensure an even coat. You can also use a brush and acrylic paint designed for plastic if you prefer. Allow the paint to dry for 1-2 hours.
For exterior car trim, some people recommend using a product like Car Guys Plastic Restorer or CarPro Dlux, which can last for several months or even a year. Another option is Solution Finish, which requires wiping on, buffing off, and curing.
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Protecting the paint job
Painting plastic can be challenging as paint does not easily stick to it. To ensure that your paint job lasts, it is important to take the necessary steps to protect it. Here are some detailed instructions to help you protect your paint job on plastic:
Clean the Plastic Surface
Before painting, it is crucial to thoroughly clean the plastic surface to remove any dirt, grease, or chalking. Use mild dish soap, warm water, and a soft cloth or sponge for smooth surfaces. For textured surfaces, you may need a scrubbing brush. This step ensures that the paint adheres properly to the plastic.
Sand the Surface
Lightly sand the plastic surface using 120-grit to 300-grit sandpaper. This process, known as "roughing up" or buffing, creates a slightly textured surface that the paint can grip onto, improving adhesion and preventing issues like peeling and orange peel texture. Be gentle and avoid causing permanent damage to the plastic.
Use a Primer
Apply a coat of primer specifically designed for use on plastic, such as a bonding primer with fusion technology. The primer will provide a smooth foundation for the paint to adhere to and help prevent the paint from peeling or chipping. Allow the primer to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
Spray Paint Application
Choose a spray paint specifically designed for plastic, such as Krylon Fusion or Rustoleum Specialty for Plastic. Follow the directions on the can for application instructions. Apply several light coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before adding another. This will create a more durable finish.
Protect with a Clear Coat
Once you have finished spray painting, protect your work by applying a clear coat or clear primer. This step is especially important for items that will be kept outdoors and exposed to the elements. The clear coat will provide an additional layer of protection and help prevent the paint from chipping or fading.
Maintain and Care
To further protect your paint job, handle the painted plastic item with care. Avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that may damage the paint. For outdoor items, consider using paint with UV protection to mitigate UV degradation. Regular maintenance and care will help extend the life of your paint job.
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Frequently asked questions
If the plastic has been painted before, you can use a spray primer designed for plastic, then spray paint made for plastic. Hold the nozzle 8–12 inches (20–30 cm) away from the surface and move the can back and forth while holding the nozzle down to apply a layer of paint.
If the plastic hasn't been painted before, fill a bucket with soap and water. Dip 150-grit sandpaper into the soapy water and rub the surface in a circular motion. Cover every faded area 5-6 times. Then, grab 220-grit sandpaper and repeat the process.
Wait 1-2 hours for the primer and paint to dry.
Fading is usually caused by oxidization, which you can remove with sandpaper, vinegar, or bleach. You can also use a product like Car Guys Plastic Restorer or CarPro Dlux.
Use masking tape to cover any surfaces you don't want to get paint on.
