Waxing
Purpose of Waxing
Waxing is the ultimate form of protecting an automobile's finish. Wax comes in many forms such as cream, paste, and liquid. Many waxes contain carnauba which contains a high amount of fatty acids. This fatty acid creates a solid layer between the paint and the outside world which protects it, and gives it a shiny finish. Synthetic waxes are regarded as the most effective product available. Synthetic wax contains strong U.V. inhibitors. Synthetic waxes commonly mix low amounts of cleaners with high amounts of U.V. inhibitors to create the same protective layer that carnauba does. synthetic wax creates a high gloss while carnauba waxes give a warm and wet looking finish.
Beyond waxing would be sealants. Synthetic sealants are polymer or acrylic based and provide triple the durabilty and much more protection than even the best carnauba wax. They are liquid in form and apply very much like a liquid wax. It is suggested that a sealant cure for 12 to 24 hours before layering additional coats on the paint, but that is rarely an issue for sealant users. The only tricky thing about sealants is that the surface of the vehicle must be properly prepared for a sealant. You cannot apply a sealant if there is any wax on the car or other contamination that would inhibit the bonding of the product to the paint. You must first polish and clean the paint prior to application. Once you top a sealant with a wax you will not be able to put additional layers of the sealant on without first cleaning the paint and removing all the wax.
