What exactly is Pearlescent paint?

[pepsi_x]

Guys,

This might seems an odd question, but I do need an answer. Basically, what is pearlescent paint, how does it differ from normal paint?

I have a small dull patch on the paintwork, because of where I parked the car and the car-park roof leaked, leaving some nasty gunk on the car. Even though I mananged to clean it up it's left a slight mark, so I need to get a valet to polish out the dull area (I won't be paying fortunately)

But I'll need to tell the valet people its pearlescent paint, and whether or not they can use things like T-Cut etc...(I'm sure they should know, but I want to cover all angles here).

Any help will be appreciated...

[plotloss]

Its paint with a larger metal flake in it I believe.

This is then covered with a clear coat lacquer.

Ben or Jon will be able to expand more I am sure...

[Incorrigible]

plotloss said:

Ben or Jon will be able to expand more I am sure...

Or at least be able to say that Matt is talking complete bs

[Incorrigible]

Answering your two questions

1: see here, or here

2: It's a clear over base (as Matt said) so you're only polishing the clear coat, as long as this isn't rubbed through (very unlikely) you'll be fine, a pearl, or reflex is polished the same way as a metalic (apart from some early metalics that didn't use a clearcoat (like wheel silver))

But when I was trying to find a "Paint for beginners page I came across this

[burriana500]

Why would anyone want to paint their trout... or is this some kinky sexual perversion that is yet to hit the tabloids?

[pepsi_x]

Thanks chaps,

The guy at the car valet place seemed to know all about my type of paint, and says the dull patch should come off with no problems.

So thanks again

Now if I can just get my new problem sorted....