DarthvaderII
06-30-2009, 07:35 AM
I've heard that multiple layers of wax can be good for the finish. Does this add additional protection to the paint? Or is it all just about the same. Also will it give a "wetter" look to the finish.
How should multiple applications be applied? Intervals between each application?
Thanks for tips or suggestions.
TOGWT
06-30-2009, 03:04 PM
There is a lot of discussion about whether or not it is possible to layer Carnauba on a paint surface, it works on leather boots (providing you neutralize the solvent) and in my experience it also works, up to a point, on a cars paint service.
I prefer the word ‘film’ as opposed to ‘layer’, a film more accurately describes a thinly applied sealant or wax, were as a layer tends to describe a thicker covering. Some specialty paint protection systems can have subsequent film added to increase protection and paint appearance, systems must set-up or cross-link prior to application of subsequent coats. Depending on the product type (polymer sealant or Carnauba wax) times vary from a few hours to days.
Usually a wax with a high solvent content will remove the previous layer; but if you apply another low-solvent product (Victoria Concours Wax - http://www.victoriawax.com/) on top of one that has already set-up (i.e. the solvents have evaporated) you can increase its density (up to a point) two to three applications are usually considered optimum One thing that will negate the applied product density is lack of clarity, the base coat (that contains the vehicle’s colour) is covered / protected by a clear coat of urethane paint, which as well as providing protection is clear to enable the paint colour to show through and provide the colour with depth.
Any product applied on top of the clear coat needs to be optically clear (transparent) otherwise both the paint colour and its depth of shine will be muted. One of the problems with ‘layering’ some polymers is that they tend to occlude (become less opaque) as the thickness increases
Angelo@ProperAutoCare
07-01-2009, 11:04 AM
That's always a debate on this subject, I always recommend only 2 coats, any more then that is a waste IMO.
StudentDriver
07-01-2009, 05:04 PM
That's always a debate on this subject, I always recommend only 2 coats, any more then that is a waste IMO.
What happened to Todd? Always enjoyed his post, sorry no offense to you. :thumbsup3:
DarthvaderII
07-05-2009, 07:27 AM
So 2 coats is the max, is there any golden rule as to when or how far apart these coatings should be?
TOGWT
07-05-2009, 08:43 AM
Wax- two coats to ensure even coverage (maximum is four) a wax cures (hardens when the solvents have evaporated ) usually 25-45 minutes then you can apply the second coat (ensure that there are no solvents left by doing a smear test otherwise the solvents in the second coat will remove the first) (See also Spit Shine)
An extract from one of a series of in-depth, unbiased detailing articles © TOGWT ™ Ltd Copyright 2002-2008, all rights reserved.