Masking is a process that many bodyshop take for granted and perhaps have not seriously thought about for some considerable time. Vehicles are generally prepared using the same tried and trusted methods and usually the same tape and materials that may not have been reviewed in recent times. But is a bodyshops masking process as efficient as it should be? Does the process minimise time and the potential for costly mistakes and are their more advanced masking materials that could be employed?

The Q1 Tapes brand from masking specialists PPM Industries is rapidly gaining favour with Irish accident repair centres. The premium tapes and films utilise the most advanced materials and production processes to provide the most effective masking solutions for progressive bodyshops. The company is also encouraging repairers to take a fresh look at their masking process and has issued some good advice on masking best practice that can boost workshop productivity and ensure the highest levels of finish quality are maintained.

The experts at Q1 say that whatever kind of painting a bodyshop has to carry out, the masking process is a critical preparation stage. It is not a very complex process, but can be made more far more quick and efficient by utilising some tips and tricks that only the best professionals know.

The first important consideration is using the right tools. This means a professional masking tape that is specifically designed for the automotive sector and is capable of withstanding high temperatures, plus high quality masking paper or, as an alternative, masking film. Films are most used to mask the upper parts of the vehicles, as they are easier to deal with than masking paper. This may sound basic, but it was not so very long ago that repairs in Ireland cut corners by masking with newspaper and some still try to save a few cents by using low grade tapes not really suitable for bodywork. When it comes to masking materials, quality is essential as mistakes and reapplication can take up valuable time. 

Once a bodyshop has the correct materials, the area to be mask requires preparation. These surface areas should be smooth, clean, dry and free from dust. Any dirt can compromise the effectiveness of the masking products, especially the tape adhesion, causing problems during the painting of the car. 

Once the area is clean the next stage is to apply masking tape under the edges around the masking area. Q1 says the most efficient and effective way to perform this operation is to unwind the tape and apply it around  the edges of the area using only half of the adhesive surface of the tape, while letting the other half stick out from the edge. This will make it much easier to apply masking paper on the vehicle. For small and narrow areas to protect, you can use the tape directly on the car.

Step 3 is to use masking paper or film to cover nearby areas. Firstly the technician preparing the car should apply masking tape around the edges of the paper, letting half of the tape stick out and then, fit the paper on the car, matching the free tape on its edges with the one that has been prepared on the vehicle. Q1 say the most effective masking tapes give their best performance tape on tape, in this step of the masking process. 

The experts at Q1 also point out that it best to use specific products for high precision applications. For example if you have to paint near doors, sunroofs, headlights or taillights. To protect these areas in the best way, it is wise to utilise the specialist products that are on the market such as those in the Q1 range. Foam masking tape, for example, is perfect to protect door jambs and gaps on the boot, and bonnet as well as A-posts applications, fitting perfectly in the grooves of the car. To mask off rubber trims, preventing paint bridging, you can employ trim masking tape, which is a product specifically designed to be applied around the trims.

Q1 says that by following these simple steps and using the right masking products a bodyshop can save considerable time, meaning reduced costs, while also minimising the possibility of mistakes such as unwanted overspray.

For more information and to see a product demonstration video visit, www.q1tapes.com