My thoughts on "Expensive" wax

http://www.chemicalguys.com/KORE_R4_Paste_Wax_p/kore_b.htm

Check this out

 

this goes against everything I've ever read about sealants and waxes. I've done hours of research and consulted MANY resources. I've never come across anything that recommended sealant on TOP of wax. the sealant needs to be in direct contact with the paint to do its job. will it hurt anything doing wax before sealant? probably not. but it's not the way it's typically done. and I think you'd be wasting your sealant. sealant is chemically formulated to bond with paint (not wax). I'm not an expert/pro detailer. far from it. I'm new to the game. suppose I could be wrong. but everything I've come across says sealant then wax (although a top coat of wax is not necessary).

 

Personally, I don't see a benefit of doing a carnuba right after a synthetic. I've tried it and could not visibly see or feel a difference. Like I mentioned before, I will do a carnuba wax a month or two after the sealant just for fun but I don't think layering one right after the other helps much. With that said, if you want to layer them you should do the sealant first, then the wax

 

I only use sealant and no wax and my paint looks great and beads water for 4 mo. or better. I just don t see the need for wax or anything else. I use auto soap to wash when it's dirty with the 2 bucket method and that's it. And my truck sits outside all the time.

 

Good info. But I want to add- I was warned against the pre-wax cleansing polish/lotion/scratch remover. I was told that some of those products contain chemicals that actually soften the clear coat very briefly to level it before waxing. And if not applied correctly it can leave permanent finger marks. See link below. I'm sure they're great products when used correctly, but I didn't want to take a chance.

http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/hot-topics-frequently-asked-questions/20496-fingermarks.html

 

I figured that much. I'll keep the "what does clay bar do?!" questions to myself

 

I agree this is all you need to do to keep your truck looking new. Bottom line is, a sealant is a synthetic wax. Whether you use natural or synthetics you are protecting your paint. I like using carnubas in between more for fun than anything but a good sealant will last at least 4 months. The most important thing is to keep it clean and apply some kind of protectant every now and again. While it's fun to debate the "very best" methods and products for us hobbyist I'm always a little concerned a new would-be detailer will see these debates and feel discouraged or overwhelmed.

 

Yea you can layer a sealant. The second coat of Meguires #21 that i did made a huge difference. I'm going for three coats.

 

I put about 6 layers of Zaino sealant at least 3 years ago,i just tune it up with Meguires Quik detailer after every wash still beads.

 

I've found most sealants are initially slicker than waxes but that slickness will wear off after a few washes. Collinite might not feel as slick but it has excellent protection & will help your sealant last longer. I hit my paint & plastic trim after every wash with Optimum Car Wax. You just spray on & wipe off. It helps keep the paint slick & adds another layer of protection.

I always strip mine. I use Dawn dish soap instead of my usual car wash soap. I then clay the horizontal surfaces & tailgate of my truck. Once a year I get the buffer out & lightly polish the paint. Then I apply my sealant/wax combo.

 

Hey they have one for light colors also! What a deal