WHAT IS a PART OF A GOOD DETAIL JOB?
WAXES &
SEALANTS
Content from Detailing Adventures
This detailing special consists of three articles that explain the various steps of detailing. The steps are covered in reverse ensure you understand each step before trying it yourself. This article is a guide for applying protective waxes and sealants. A wax or sealant on your vehicle will act as a protective shield against things like UV rays, harmful contamination buildup, water spots, staining, and more. Think of it as a sacrificial barrier that separates your paint paint finish from environmental hazards. Not only does it protect your paint, but it also makes your vehicle easier to wash and gives it a little extra shine.
Things you will need:
-A wax or sealant
-A product applicator
-Thick microfiber towel(s)
I’ll be covering the applications of all of these products in liquid, paste, and spray form using hand applicators as well as machine polishers.
Note: This should only be performed on a car that has been cleaned thoroughly and decontaminated. Do not try applying a wax or sealant on a vehicle with paint that feels rough with contaminants. If you have heavy paint contamination, I recommend polishing or at least using a paint cleaner before applying a wax or sealant. This step should only be performed in a shaded cool space. Do not attempt to apply a wax or sealant in direct sunlight!
Choosing a product:
You have a few options when it comes to adding protection to your vehicle.
You can apply a synthetic sealant which is long lasting, durable, and will create a brilliant shine. One step polishing sealants are also available.
You can apply a natural carnauba wax which won’t last as long as a sealant but will give your vehicle an extremely deep buttery gloss
For the average weekend detailer with a daily driver, I recommend using a paint sealant for better durability. A carnauba wax is a great way to get a warm wet look, but don’t expect it to last for very long before needing a reapplication. Sealants can sometimes be followed up with a carnauba wax, but certain waxes may have solvents in their formula that can interfere with the sealant it is being applied over.
Do some research on a detailing forum like Autogeek.net if you plan on using a wax as a “topper” for your sealant.
Note: If you wish to apply a high end paint coating like Optimum Gloss Coat or CarPro CQuartz, follow the directions listed by the manufacturer. Paint coatings require special application methods and do not always go on the same as waxes and sealants. I do not recommend using a coating unless you’re an experienced detailer. Never attempt to apply a coating on a vehicle that hasn’t been thoroughly cleaned and polished.
Be sure to thoroughly read the manufacturer’s label on your product for any special information and instructions before proceeding with application.
Getting Started:
Before applying any wax or sealant, you will want to make sure the vehicle is completely clean and in a shaded cool space. Refer to the wash guide if your vehicle needs to be cleaned and decontaminated. If your paint feels rough after washing, you will want to clay the paint and get rid of any surface contamination before applying a wax or sealant. I like to wipe down the paint with diluted isopropyl alcohol (5:1) or CarPro Eraser just to be sure I’m working with a completely contaminant free surface. This is completely optional, but I recommend doing it if you’ve just finished polishing the car. It helps to remove leftover oils from compounds and polishes that can interfere with the bonding of your wax or sealant.
You can use automotive masking tape to cover up trim, emblems, crevices, and other areas that you don’t want your product getting into. It is especially important to mask off things like rubber moldings and windshield squirters since they can become discolored from the product. This step is not completely necessary, but I highly recommend it. If you’re confident working without tape, then by all means go for it. Some products do not leave staining on vehicle trim, but it doesn’t hurt to be on the safe side.
This video shows covers a whole detailing job from start to finish.