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Paint Depth Gauge

Paint depth gauges can be used to measure the thickness of car paint. There are various mechanisms by which they work, mechanical gauges use magnets but can only be used over ferrous metals. Ultrasonic and Eddy Current can be used on other materials. Advanced models can not only tell the total thickness of the paint coatings, but also produce a graph from which it is possible to distinguish clear-coat from base coat.

These tools became popular in the boutique detailing industry and among enthusiasts around 20 years ago for measuring paint thickness, as a more scientific approach to polishing cars.

As polishing removes material from the paint surface, especially when wet-sanding is involved, it can be essential to know how much paint is left on the car. This is certainly the case for cars which are repeatedly polished, as in the case of show cars.

Controversy

Since they became 'popular' in certain circles within the industry, there has been controversy about paint depth gauges. Opinions vary as to their usefulness, with some saying they are a useful if not essential tool, to others saying they are just a gimmick to make detailers look more professional.

Early in their history within the detailing industry, they were the cause of much drama between a celebrity detailer and Ferrari over the actual thickness of their paint. With many detailers, professional and hobbyists publishing their work on YouTube, there have been numerous examples shown of paint depth gauges giving false or misleading readings.

We take a view, similar to that expressed in the video above from Canadian Gearhead. Experience, the evidence of your own eyes and common sense is generally better than working to the numbers.

Written by . Last updated 02/02/2024 14:48