Understanding Seam Sealer: Its Role and Importance

Seam sealer is a crucial component in the automotive body repair process. Some vehicle manufacturers apply seam sealer to their replacement parts at the factory level, while others leave it to the auto body shop to handle. The primary function of seam sealer is to prevent moisture, dust, and debris from entering the spaces where two materials meet, such as plastic-to-metal or metal-to-metal connections. This protective coating is applied across various areas of the vehicle, including the upper body, interior, and exterior.

Where Is Seam Sealer Applied?
Seam sealer needs to be applied to specific vehicle components, particularly those exposed to environmental elements. Areas that commonly require seam sealer include:

• Door jambs
• Door skins
• Door hem flanges
• Seams and joints
• Floor pans
• Interior seams and joints
• Rear body panels
• Rocker panels

What Texture Does Seam Sealer Have?
The texture of seam sealer is often referred to as the "bead." Different types of beads are created using various nozzle tips attached to the applicator gun. Brushes can also be used to mimic the original equipment manufacturer's (OEM) texture.

Is Seam Sealer Necessary?
Seam sealer serves as a barrier against rust and other forms of damage. Even though Scottsdale enjoys a relatively dry climate, seam sealer remains essential to protect vehicles during routine washes, seasonal rainfalls, and when driving beyond the local area.

Can Seam Sealer Be Painted Over?
Some manufacturers ship new OEM parts with seam sealer pre-applied, while others don't. Each seam sealer manufacturer provides guidelines on the waiting period before applying a refinishing or painting product. Not all seam sealers are painted over. A reputable collision repair center will ensure that seam sealer is applied exactly as it was before the accident, painting over it only if it was originally done by the factory.

Who Applies the Seam Sealer?
The collision repair technician at our Scottsdale facility takes care of applying the seam sealer. The process involves multiple steps, and skilled technicians focus on restoring the vehicle to its factory specifications. Depending on the type of seam sealer used, this might be one of the final steps before sending the car to the refinishing department for painting.

Are There Different Types of Seam Sealer?
Airpark Collision Center utilizes both sprayable and spreadable seam sealants. High-quality collision repairs go hand-in-hand with premium materials. We exclusively use 3M brand seam sealants, which not only protect your vehicle but also maintain its aesthetic appeal.

Since 2006, our Scottsdale collision repair center has been dedicated to delivering exceptional auto body repairs and customer service. If you need an estimate or have minor damage, feel free to drop by or request a quick estimate online.