Whether you work in auto detailing or like to keep your personal vehicle in peak shape on your own, paint protection has many benefits. A common misconception is that the terms wax, seal, and polish are interchangeable. Instead, each provides a different service for cars and is necessary under specific circumstances. Consider the differences between car sealant, wax, and polish and when to use them.
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The Polymers of Car Sealant
Sealants mostly contain polymers, which are synthetic chemical compounds that link together to create a tight layer of protection on the car’s exterior surface. Polymers keep dust, dirt, and other contaminants from damaging or degrading the clear coat on top of car paint. A great sealant also protects cars from acid rain, UV rays, and excessive heat.
Some examples of times when using a sealant would be a necessity include the following:
- Just after polishing a vehicle to preserve the finish
- After refinishing a vehicle with a custom paint job
- After repairing scratches and dents to reseal it
While every car sealant has polymers, there are specific elements that make one type different from another. An all-purpose sealant belongs in every shop. The application process is fast and easy.
The Abrasives of Polish
Unlike sealants, car polishes are not protective. Instead, they serve to correct issues with the clear coat of a car’s paint job. Over time, exposure to the elements can create tiny little scratches in the clear coat that protects your car paint. As a result, it can dull the car’s appearance and age it quickly. Using fine abrasives, polish cuts the clear coat superficially, removing small imperfections like liquid sandpaper.
People often use “polish” and “glaze” when describing the same product or service. However, glazes do not rid the car of minor scratches as a polish would. Instead, a glaze will temporarily fill the scratch, producing a similar effect. The finished product is a smooth surface with a nice reflection, but it needs a follow-up treatment for protection.
The Barrier Created by Car Wax
The advantage that car wax has over polish is that it provides that necessary protection. It is a preventative service that creates a barrier between the elements that cause little scratches and the car’s paint. However, it is not as convenient or effective as using a car sealant.
To enjoy consistent protection from car wax, you have to put in maximum effort. As a car owner, it means applying the wax at leave every two weeks, and to last that long, it needs multiple coats. Sealants and waxes create shine and protection, but a sealant can last as long as six months and takes less work to apply.
Where To Find Car Chemicals You Can Trust
If you do auto body work, waxes, polishes, and sealants should be part of your everyday operations. However, a good car sealant will leave customers satisfied for longer. For paints, cleaners, solvents, lubricants, primers, and seasonal chemicals every auto shop and car owner needs, check out ROGO Fastener.