Re: [CR] repainting frames

(Example: Framebuilders)

Date: Sun, 22 Apr 2007 15:33:00 -0400
Subject: Re: [CR] repainting frames
From: "Doug Fattic" <fatticbicycles@qtm.net>
To: "classicrendezvous@bikelist.org" <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>


There has been a number of ideas talked about lately under various repainting subject headings. I thought I might add a bit more. One was about whether modern paints are as durable as vintage ones. I start by explaining that the same modern paint can vary it's final on-frame quality depending on how it was applied. There are a number of steps between bare metal and final clears and if any of these are compromised in some way, you won't get as good a result. To start with, what kind of primer was put on? They vary in quality. In addition, your modern paints like Imron are a polyurethane enamel that requires a mixing of various components to make it harden. There is a certain ratio that needs to used and it is easy to get a bit more or less than what the directions require. In addition, lots can go wrong between the different layers of paint that doesn't show up immediately in the final result. Oils from handling or waiting too long or short a time between coats can make a big difference. Temperature and humidity play a part too.

Modern show paints can be complex to put on and require more layers which allow complications to occur. My own impression is that my vintage frames which were stove enameled and modern polyurethane paints are about equal in toughness although I've done no scientific testing to prove this. It doesn't matter, those old paints aren't available in the states.

There was also some discussion about the difference in quality between British and American painting. This can be attributed to the representative attitude Doug Smith made about the cost value he places on getting a frame resprayed. If the expectation that it should be a certain price and one goes beyond that, he won't have any business. He has to limit his methods to keep the costs within these bounds. It has nothing to do with the talent in each geographical area. In the States customers are willing to pay more for show finishes which allows for more prep work to be done that gives a glossier, smoother finish. I might add that the higher painting quality someone like Brian Baylis does becomes the standard of what others do (or try to do). The best framebuilders and painters are proud of their work and won't want their results to seem inferior to others. What is going to be remembered at Cirque or the NAHBS is the quality of the finish not the $100 less cost.

Doug Fattic
Niles, Michigan USA