
OUR RESTORATION PROCESS
Restoring a classic or vintage car takes time, care and the right process. Every vehicle we work on is treated with the respect it deserves, with close attention paid to both originality and quality. Our step-by-step restoration process ensures nothing is overlooked, from the initial inspection through to the final finishing details.
1
Appraisal
Every restoration begins with a detailed appraisal of your vehicle. We carefully inspect the bodywork, structure and overall condition to identify any obvious issues. At this stage we’ll also discuss your goals for the project, whether that’s a full restoration, preservation, or specific repair work.
2
Scope of Work & Estimate
Following the appraisal, we prepare a proposed scope of work based on the condition of your vehicle and your requirements. This includes a clear estimate for the work involved. Depending on the project, this can be presented as an overview or broken down into individual stages.
3
Strip Down & Further Assessment
Once work begins, your vehicle is carefully stripped down to expose the body shell and structural areas. This allows us to carry out a far more detailed inspection than is possible during the initial appraisal. At this stage it’s not uncommon to uncover hidden corrosion or previous repairs.
4
Communication & Agreement
If anything further is discovered during the strip-down process, we will contact you to discuss the findings. Photographs and updates are provided so you can clearly see the condition of the vehicle. No additional work is carried out without your agreement.
5
Metalwork & Repairs
Any necessary repairs are then carried out to restore the strength and integrity of your vehicle. This can include rust removal, panel repairs, or custom metal fabrication where replacement parts are no longer available. Wherever possible, we aim to retain the original character of the vehicle.
6
Protection & Primer
Once the metalwork is complete, the bare metal is treated to prevent corrosion. Primer systems such as epoxy, etch or 2K primer are then applied to seal and protect the surface. Depending on your requirements, this stage may also include underbody protection with anti-stone chip coating.
7
Body Preparation
Once the metalwork and initial priming are complete, the body is carefully prepared for paint. Panels are aligned, panel gaps are adjusted, and surfaces are refined to ensure the correct body lines. High-build primer is applied where required and block sanded to remove imperfections and achieve straight, consistent panels.
8
Paint
Once preparation is complete, the vehicle moves into the paint stage. The chosen colour is applied using professional automotive paint systems, typically including colour coats followed by clearcoat layers. Each stage is applied in controlled conditions to achieve an even finish, depth of colour and long-term durability.
9
Reassembly & Final Checks
Once the paint has fully cured, your vehicle is carefully reassembled with close attention to fit and finish. After final checks and detailing, it undergoes a full shakedown to make sure everything performs as it should before being presented to you in our showroom.
All of our work comes with an extensive amount of images and progress updates throughout the whole process, keeping you updated where possible!
