A flawless, high gloss finish doesn’t happen by accident. Over time, washing marks, bird-etching, road film and micro-scratches dull your paint - and no amount of wax can hide it in daylight. Paint correction is the art and science of removing those defects from the clear coat (or gelcoat) so light reflects cleanly again. At Mat’s Detailing in Hamilton, we correct paint on cars, boats, RVs and motorbikes — restoring depth, clarity and that “better-than-new” look while preserving as much material as possible.
Why paint develops swirls and haze (real NZ causes)
New Zealand throws it all at your finish: intense UV, coastal air, country dust, tree sap, road tar, bug splatter and the occasional automatic brush wash. Each contact mark is tiny, but collectively they create a grey “veil” over your colour. On dark paints especially, you’ll see swirls in the sun and a general lack of depth. Gelcoat (boats/RVs) suffers oxidation, which turns surfaces chalky and flat.
Our inspection-first philosophy
Correction starts with understanding the surface. We wash and decontaminate to remove traffic film, iron fallout and tar, then clay to lift bonded contamination. Under colour-correct LED and sun-match lights, we map defects and measure film with a paint-depth gauge on each panel. For boats and RVs, we assess oxidation thickness and porosity. A test spot confirms the least-aggressive pad, polish and technique that achieves the result — your guarantee we’re removing only what’s necessary.
Single-stage vs multi-stage correction
Single-stage: One polishing step that refines light swirls and boosts gloss on well-kept vehicles. Ideal before coating a new car or refreshing a tidy daily.
Multi-stage: Compound to cut heavier defects, then refine to remove haze and amp the gloss. Essential for neglected paint, deep swirling, RIDS (random isolated deep scratches), or oxidised gelcoat. We tailor the stack for cars, bikes (tanks/fairings), RV faces and boat topsides.
Tools, pads and polish systems (why it matters)
We use dual-action machines for safe, controlled correction on modern clear coats, and rotary strategically when required for heavier defects or gelcoat. Foam and microfibre pads are matched to the paint system (soft, medium, hard) and the environment (humidity/temperature). Compounds and polishes are selected for low dusting, excellent wipe-off and stable finishes in NZ conditions. Edges, badges and PPF edges are masked for safety and a clean result.
The difference on gelcoat and RV finishes
Gelcoat is thicker but more porous than automotive clear, so oxidation removal needs careful heat management and longer working cycles. We cut to a crisp, even surface, then refine and seal with marine-grade protection. RVs often need staged work at height; we manage access safely and systematically to deliver an even, glossy result end-to-end.
Correction + protection: lock it in
Once defects are removed, the smartest next step is protection. Our Fireball Ceramic and Graphene coatings create a durable, hydrophobic barrier that resists UV and chemicals and dramatically slows re-swirling. Where impact protection is needed (leading edges, touring vehicles, bikes), Paint Protection Film adds self-healing, chip resistance and a pristine finish. Correction builds the foundation; protection preserves the look.
What results to expect
Deep, mirror-like clarity and colour flop
Dramatic sun-swirl reduction or removal
Crisp reflections and “edge definition” in the paint
A surface that stays cleaner for longer (with protection)
Maintenance after correction
Use a pH-neutral shampoo and premium wash pad, avoid brushes, and dry carefully with quality microfibre. We recommend quarterly decon washes and an annual inspection — or a scheduled maintenance plan if you want us to keep it dialled year-round.
FAQs
Will correction remove every scratch?
If a scratch catches your fingernail, it may be too deep to level safely; we’ll improve it and discuss options.
How long will it last without coating?
Gloss will fade faster without protection. With a coating and safe washes, your finish stays sharp for years.
Is gelcoat harder than car paint?
It’s thicker and oxidises differently; we use different techniques and protection to get lasting results.
